Utility work for the $9.8 million Freedom Road extension project in Cranberry Township will begin March 7, according to the state Department of Transportation.

The contractor, Gulisek Construction of Mt. Pleasant, will conduct short-term utility traffic control work outside of the shoulder area. Work will take place between Haine School Road an Commonwealth Drive on weekdays, evenings and weekends.

This is the second season of the two-year project, which includes new highway and turning lanes, widening, paving, drainage, signal upgrades, lighting work, highway realignment, safety improvements and new sidewalks. The project is expected to be completed in the fall.