Road work stops for Masters week

AUGUSTA - The Department of Transportation has suspended work on a 22-mile interstate resurfacing project this week, hoping to prevent traffic jams as visitors flock here for the Masters. <br> <br> Work on Interstate 20 is ``completely shutting down,&#39;&#39; said Rusty Merritt of the DOT. The project will resume April 16, two days after the final round of the golf tournament. <br> <br> ``Historically we always have increased traffic as people come in to the tournament,&#39;&#39; he said. ``It would be just an impossible task with any kind of lane closures.&#39;&#39; <br> <br> The construction started in October and has caused lane closings and a speed limit change in the area from 70 to 60 mph. The lower speed limit will not change for Masters week. <br> <br> The resurfacing is expected to be complete in July 2003. Work will be suspended for the Masters next year as well, Merritt said.