KENT, Ohio — News 5 is returning to Kent and Following Through. After months of anticipation and at times anxiety, construction is finally underway on the extensive East Main Street project.

It's all happening as the city experiences an influx of tens of thousands of students returning to Kent State University's campus for the fall semester.

Once all is said and done, officials say the project will reduce crashes and make the area more walkable and pedestrian-friendly.

For some, it's an adjustment.

"I was like... Are you kidding me... Right now you chose to do this?" said Jack Lewis, a Kent State student.

Mike Holden

Orange barrels, construction crews and lane shift signs now line a portion of East Main Street in Kent.

This will be the norm for the next three years as you approach K

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