Utility and sidewalk construction will close the southbound outside lane on South Austin Avenue from Second to Fifth streets for several weeks.

The project's first phase will create a conduit on the west side of Austin Avenue for the overhead electric, phone and cable lines to be placed underground. This project will allow for the utility poles in the area to be removed.

The second phase will add sidewalks, new curbs and drainage features along the west side of Austin Avenue from Second to Fifth streets.

The project, which is part of several other sidewalk improvement projects in Georgetown, is expected to be completed by Aug. 1, according to a city news release.

Transportation Engineer Bill Dryden said the projects cost $297,331 and should be complete by mid-September.