As summer approaches, the Hermitage Police Department suggests that people take it slow on and around state Route 18, while the road widening project goes into full swing.

"We are spending more time in the construction areas, watching for aggressive driving and other traffic violations," said Hermitage patrolman Joel Ristvey, who was given a special two-day training session to deal with traffic and construction because of the road-widening project in the city.

The project, which extends from East State Street to the South Pymatuning Township line, began last fall and should be finished before the end of this year, said Ristvey.

Though the department has not seen an increase in accidents in the construction zone, the department has noticed speeding in the construction area.

"Fines are doubled for speeding in the work zones," Ristvey said, quoting the state vehicle code.

Besides speeding, other violations in a construction zone where fines can be doubled include following too close, going through a red light and failure to obey an authorized person directing traffic in a construction area, Ristvey said, adding, "I can't think of any moving violation that the fine wouldn't be doubled in this area."

Police are also keeping an eye on "cut-off" roads that drivers are using to avoid the Route 18 construction traffic, such as Keel Ridge Road, Valley View Road, Dutch Lane, Maple Drive and Clarksville Road.

"We are watching for speeders on those roads and we are tough on speeders," the Hermitage patrolman said.

He urged those driving on Route 18 during the project to be careful.

"Drive slow. Be patient. Be alert about construction workers and construction vehicles, different traffic patterns and stopped vehicles," Ristvey said, adding that anyone with questions can call police.

"We've been trying to keep communication open with the construction people to make sure we stay in contact, in case there's any problem or questions for what things need to be done," said Ristvey, adding that as construction nears East State Street, police will be posted in certain areas.