Indiana highway officials have set a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new 13-mile stretch of U.S. 31 bypass around Kokomo for Tuesday. Gov. Mike Pence and other dignitaries are expected at the dedication.

According to Indiana Department of Transportation spokesman Harry Maginity, the ribbon cutting ceremony will conclude with a ceremonial drive to the northern end of the bypass and a reception at the Kokomo Automotive Museum. Barricades will be removed that afternoon and the highway will be open to all motorists.

Known as the U.S. 31 Kokomo Freeway, the 4-lane divided, limited access rural highway will allow motorists to avoid 15 traffic signals and three at-grade railroad crossings along the current highway’s route through the city. Work continues of new sections of the U.S. 31 bypass near South Bend and Indianapolis to also ease congestion in those areas.

The route around Kokomo includes six interchanges. Construction was completed ahead of schedule and the final cost of $155 million was less than half of original estimates.