Traffic congestion around Fieler Elementary School in Merrillville should begin easing Monday as a private road, built by the Merrillville Community School Corp., opens for student drop-offs as an alternative to busy 61st Avenue.

School officials snipped a ribbon Friday marking the opening of the approximate half-mile road that begins behind the parking lot on the school’s south side, winding west to Harrison Street where motorists will enter. The school is at 407 W. 61st Ave.

The $1 million roadway is part of a districtwide $145 million capital improvements project, funded through a bond issue. It also includes a new $21 million career center at Merrillville High School.

Superintendent Nick Brown said the construction took about eight months. He said the district is opening it on Monday so parents can acclimate themselves to it by the time school begins next year.

Principal LaFonda Morris said about 150 vehicles drop off children every day in addition to the district-provided bus service.

“We’re really excited about it,” said Morris. “It should clear up the congestion. We’ve had a few incidents out there.”

She called the road an important way to protect students.

“We want to ensure the safest routes to our families that will ensure that every student can be transported to and from our building with efficiency and success,” Morris said.

Carole Carlson is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.