Bethany Beach -- The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) has begun a $2.4-million streetscape improvement project on Garfield Parkway in Bethany Beach.

The project covers a two and a half block stretch of Garfield Parkway that extends from the boardwalk past Pennsylvania Avenue and Atlantic Avenue to State Route 1. A DelDOT contractor is widening sidewalks, adding pedestrian crossings, upgrading curb ramps, installing lighting, landscaping, and improving signage for bicycle lanes.

"We're very pleased to be able to improve safety for this heavily traveled area in the Bethany Beach area. Our streetscape improvements will help reduce the risk of traffic accidents involving pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists who use this roadway," said Delaware Transportation Secretary Shailen Bhatt.

"This streetscape project marks another step forward in making Delaware - and Bethany Beach - a safer place to walk and ride a bike," said Collin O'Mara, Secretary of the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control. "This is another important and strategic investment in walking and bicycling that will help improve health, the economy, and the environment in Delaware."

The streetscape improvement on the north side of the street began this week and should be completed by the middle of May. South side improvements will begin after Labor Day and should be finished by the end of 2013. During construction periods, traffic will be restricted to one lane in each direction of Garfield Parkway.

The renovation of Garfield Parkway is part of the First State Trails and Pathways Program in which the Governor and General Assembly authorized funding to develop an interconnected network of trails and pathways around the First State, while improving pedestrian, bicycle and vehicle safety. For more information about the First State Trails and Pathways program, please visit www.trails.delaware.gov.