Editor's Note: The details in the story were corrected to March 15 under the advisement from Austintown Township Trustee, Bruce Shepas.

Drivers on Mahoning Avenue in Austintown can expect increased stop-and-go traffic.

A new traffic signal, located between the Chick-fil-A and the Meijer Supercenter, is being fully activated on March 15.

Austintown Trustee Bruce Shepas told 21 News the traffic light inspection was performed on February 13. "This marked the start of the mandatory 30-day burn period that will run through March 15," Shepas said.

The traffic signal cannot be placed into full operational mode until all items in the traffic signal plan are in place and complete. This includes all signage and pavement markings as per the final approved/revised traffic control plan.
 

The signals had been flashing yellow on Mahoning Avenue and flashing red at the Chick-fil-A entrance, warning drivers to stop before entering Mahoning Avenue. Mahoning County Engineer Pat Ginnetti told 21 News that the lights were set to flash to test the equipment and prepare drivers for the eventual full activation.

Construction is still underway at the Meijer store, located just east of Fitch Boulevard on the site of the former Austintown Middle School. An official opening date for the store has not yet been announced.

The former Austintown Middle School closed in 2007 and was demolished in 2017.

Meijer already has locations in Howland and Boardman.