WINCHESTER, Ore. -- Construction on the Winchester Improvement Project has been extended until April after five months of work.

The project is working to add sidewalks, bike lanes and two pedestrian bridges on the north and south sides of town.

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The work initially started in August last year and officials from Douglas County Public Works told KEZI 9 News the entire project would be complete on Dec. 31.

However, officials said the extension was caused by weather constraints, material delays and unforeseen ground conditions.

They said they will be focusing on completing utility, sewer and paving work over the next three months.

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Some local businesses said they were unhappy to hear about the extension because they’ve been losing customers since construction started.

“We’ve had quite a few of our older clientele who don’t want to come into this area because there is so much traffic,” said Tyeann Foltin, a stylist at the Winchester Salon.

Officials said they understand the strain they’re putting on residents for extending the project, but they said they are working as fast as they can to get it finished.