A ribbon-cutting ceremony, tentatively set for late October, will mark the completion of Phase 2 of a new road linking the west side to the north, where retail is dense.

The final phase is expected to be completed in late 2016 or early 2017, according to Lee Beauchamp, director of public works for Wicomico County.

Called a collector road, it will extend from Nanticoke to Naylor Mill roads, about 5 miles, and cost around $5 million.

Phase 1, from Route 50 at Nanticoke Road to Brick Kiln Road, is complete.

Phase 2, from Brick Kiln to Levin Dashiell roads, is being completed now, although work is currently delayed a week or two until a utility pedestal is moved, Beauchamp said.

Phase 3 will be from Levin Dashiell Road to Crooked Oak Lane and  Phase 4 from Crooked Oak to Naylor Mill.

The bond issue for Phase 3 will begin in February or March next year, and work will tentatively begin in the spring.

Called a collector because it collects traffic from several streets, the new  artery will not be given a new name, but considered part of Naylor Mill, Beauchamp said.

A collector road isn’t a bypass, because, unlike a bypass,  there are intersections and traffic lights, Beauchamp explained. It’s lower grade, although this one will have a hiking and biking path extending the entire length.

The county is funding the work through bonding, Beauchamp said, and will apply for state money for the hiking and biking path.