The Texas Department of Transportation’s road-widening project on Austin Avenue in south Brownwood will likely be completed this spring, about a year later than initially planned, TxDOT spokesman Andrew Carlson said. Carlson did not have specifics as to why the Brownwood project is taking so long, but did say rain has delayed most of the projects in the Brownwood district. The $4.9 million project began in March 2014, with Jay Mills Contracting of Stephenville chosen as the contractor. The project will completely rehabilitate Austin Avenue from Norwood Street to Brooks Avenue by widening it to four lanes, as well as rebuilding and resurfacing the roadway and widening the bridge at Willis Creek. The project also includes storm drains, curbs, gutters, sidewalks and signals. According to TxDot officials, when the project is complete, motorists can expect “enhanced safety and mobility through the area thanks to the additional wider lanes. The new curb and gutter system will mean improved drainage and it will be overall more safe for pedestrians thanks to the new sidewalks.