PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — It’s been a years-in-the-making effort to improve safety along Roosevelt Boulevard, as project developers met with community members Tuesday to outline planned changes to one of Philadelphia’s most dangerous roadways.

For many residents who regularly travel the boulevard, traffic congestion and safety concerns are familiar challenges.

“Well, it’s Philadelphia, you know, we yell at each other, blow the horn. We say not-so-nice things and go on with the day,” said Melissa Robbins of Fox Chase.

Project leaders said the planned improvements are intended to address safety issues for drivers, passengers and pedestrians.

“Once this is implemented, we’ll see that doesn’t have to be the case,” Robbins said.

During the information session, officials provided details on the Roosevelt Boulevard RB1 and RB2 projects, which are nearing the end of the preliminary design phase.

“We’re here to talk about the Roosevelt Boulevard project for the RB1 and RB2 projects,” said Tim Stevenson, assistant district executive for design at PennDOT.

The work is divided into two phases.

“Phase one goes from the Bucks County line up to around Oxford Circle; the other goes from Oxford Circle to Hunting Park,” said Ed Neilson, majority chair of the House Transportation Committee.

Officials said different sections of the boulevard require different solutions. Among the proposed changes are business access and transit, or BAT, lanes.

“That will take the outermost lanes on the boulevard and convert for bus access,” Stevenson said.

Renderings displayed during the meeting also showed intersection modifications aimed at improving safety.

“Delightfully surprised with the interest in protected left turn lanes. Anybody who drives on the boulevard, they don’t like sitting there not being able to see to make a left turn,” Stevenson said.

Construction is already underway on crossover improvements. Officials said BAT lane construction could begin by 2028.

Project leaders acknowledged that construction is expected to add traffic disruptions along the boulevard in the short term, but they hope the changes will encourage more people to use public transportation.

“During these improvements, we’re hoping we’ll see more riders, which means less traffic and better conditions for riders,” said Matthew Zapson, manager of planning programs at SEPTA.

Construction of the RB1 and RB2 projects is estimated to cost roughly $125 million, with most funding expected to come from federal sources. The design phase cost the city about $8 million.

Another informational session is scheduled for Wednesday in Hunting Park.

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