SOUTHAMPTON — Construction is underway on a $1 million project geared toward a safer commute for students going to and from the William E. Norris Elementary School.

Massachusetts Department of Transportation spokesperson Patrick Marvin said the so-called Safe Routes to School project includes constructing sidewalks along about a half-mile stretch on College Highway (Route 10) between Lynn Drive and Pomeroy Meadow Road. The project also includes construction of a 150-foot section of sidewalk along both Helen and Lynn drives. The new sidewalks are designed to improve connectivity between the school and the residential neighborhoods to the south.

Safe Routes to School projects are federally-funded initiatives to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility when commuting to elementary and middle schools. The local effort is sponsored by MassDOT with funds from the Federal Highway Administration.

The Southampton project also involves installation of wheelchair ramps, new pavement markings, new traffic and pedestrian warning signs, landscaping and minor drainage modifications.

Among the improvements is installation of a “rapid-flash” pedestrian beacons. The beacons alert drivers to the presence of pedestrians and bicyclists in crosswalks by illuminating pedestrian warning signs. The lighted signs are activated through both auto-detection and manual activation.

And while land is being dug up to put sidewalks in place, Select Board Chairman Charlie Kaniecki said the town is upgrading water and gas lines in the area.

Kaniecki said the area was picked for the project due to its population density and the proximity to the school. With apartments and an elderly housing complex nearby, Kaniecki said the project is a “win-win” for everyone in that immediate area.

Marvin said the project is expected to be completed next spring, though Kaniecki is under the impression the work will wrap up in the fall.

In a separate matter, Kaniecki said the town is in the process of traffic safety study of Norris School due to problems and congestion during pick up and drop off hours at the school.

The study could result in upgrading the driveway.

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