TORRANCE : Widening of Busy Intersection Expected to Tie Up Traffic

Workers are scheduled to begin widening the intersection of Crenshaw and Sepulveda boulevards May 8, choking traffic for much of the 3 1/2 months of construction.

The $1.6-million project, won by Excel Paving Co. of Long Beach, will include replacing water mains, adding right-turn lanes at each corner and improving drains.

The city has decided to replace asphalt with concrete because it is more durable. Officials said the concrete should last 30 to 50 years; asphalt typically lasts 10 to 15 years.

Work on the intersection has already constricted traffic, but officials expect even greater delays. Motorists are being asked to avoid the intersection during construction. Traffic will be limited to two lanes in each direction.