(KMOV)- The Interstate 64/40 project is set to be complete in 19 months and 16 days.

Crews are in the middle of the first phase of the project.

Preparations are underway now in St. Louis to figure out how to handle traffic during phase two of the closure, which will stretch from I-170 to Kingshighway in the city. 

The old saying “timing is everything”, couldn't be more true when it comes to avoiding traffic tie-ups in St Louis City once I-64 shuts down. 

Todd Waelterman and the St. Louis City street department are decreasing congestion by unifying what was once a piecemeal system of traffic lights. 

The latest technology will time signals throughout the city so drivers aren't sitting around on unnecessary reds.

The department has identified 10 major alternative routes for the shutdown, none are highways.

- Kingshighway (Gravois to 70)

- Hampton Ave

- Chippewa

- Watson

- McCausland/Skinker

- Grand Ave (Ton of bus)

- Forest Park Parkway (County-City connection)

- Union Road

- Tucker/Truman Parkway

- Vandeventer

Until then, crews continue to evaluate these roads signal by signal, identifying even the smallest improvements that could be made.

Starting June 1st there will be street crews paving at night in an effort to get the alternative routes ready for the shutdown.