AMARILLO, TEXAS -- The first phase of a storm sewer outfall is set to start in November and will close Farmers Avenue between Western Street and Georgia Street for about a year.

Farmers Avenue between Western and Georgia will be closed between November 6 and October 2013. The City of Amarillo said all traffic in the area will be rerouted to Southwest 58th Avenue Loop 335.

The City said the storm sewer will eventually be extended under Interstate 27 to west of Bell Street. This will help alleviate flooding problems in the area, the City said.

Total cost of the project is $4,480,000, the City said. It is being funded by the drainage utility.

Along with the drainage project, the City said a roadway rehabilitation project will widen Farmers Avenue between Western and Georgia Streets. It will also add curb and gutter. That project is being funded through the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). 

Work will usually take place between 7 a.m., and 7 p.m. Motorists are asked to use extreme caution and to expect delays.