BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — Officials say planned closures as part of the highway 99 rehab project will be delayed for at least a week.

The on and off ramps connecting the 99 north and Rosedale highway were slated to close beginning Monday, according to the California Department of Transportation.

Caltrans spokesman Christian Lukens said the closures are needed in order to build an auxiliary lane and will take at least 55 days to complete.

Several residents in that area told 23ABC they are glad for the delayed closures because that stretch of road is very congested.

Caltrans said the posted detour will utilize the Buck Owens Boulevard exit where traffic can return south on Buck Owens to 24th Street (Rosedale Highway) as well as the California Avenue exit where traffic can go north on Oak Street Rosedale Highway.

The northbound stage of the project is expected to finish in Summer 2020, Lukens said.

The southbound stage is anticipated to complete in 2021.