MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Road closures that will impact drivers for nearly a decade are now in effect as the first phase of the I-94 expansion continues.

On the corner of 68th and Fairview, you’ll find southern hospitality. Maxie's chef and owner Joe Muench serves nearly 200 customers a day.

“Fresh seafood, oysters,” said Muench. "Over a thousand a week.”

Soon, you’ll also find construction.

“I hope it’s a good entertainment piece,” said Muench.

As the first phase of the I-94 expansion continues, Muench is optimistic it will be good for business.

“I think it’s going to give us more traffic flow, easier traffic flow,” he said.

As of Tuesday night, the 68th Street onramp going eastbound closed because of the first phase of the I-94 expansion. To get on the interstate, drivers will now have to enter through Brewer's Boulevard.

More closures are expected to happen all week, including a long-term lane closure between 70th St. and General Mitchell Boulevard. Traffic will be reduced to two lanes.

In West Allis, one of the biggest changes will be the Hawley interchange, which will only have access to and from the west.

“You know, it’s a very important street to get into West Allis, and losing half of it is not ideal,” said Mayor of West Allis Dan Devine.

Devine says it could mean more money for local business.

“We’re going to see a lot more traffic on our arterial streets,” said Devine.

While sitting in traffic isn’t ideal, Muench says it’s a small price to pay.

“The delays are minimal compared to what other cities experience on a day-to-day basis,” said Muench.

It’s an eight-year project businesses and communities say needs eight years of communication.

“There’s just no room for error. It’s gotta be near perfect,” said Devine.