The City of Bel Aire announced Tuesday plans to expand Woodlawn.

The Wichita suburb has been talking about the project for 10 to 15 years, and some drivers couldn't be happier.

"To get out is more difficult especially if I'm gonna make a left turn out of this facility, it can sometimes take out ten minutes."

Woodlawn is one of the busiest streets in Bel Aire.

"If I don't get here between 4 and 4:30, then I'm sitting here for quite a while trying to get out of the parking lot."

Dr. Lowen Leatherman, with Leatherman Dental, has been in Bel Aire for the last 10 years. He's excited for the expansion, but he's concerned about who's going to pay for the $5 million-plus project.

"The burden would be on the business owners along here to live through this ordeal because of the expansion and the inconvenience. It's difficult to get in and out for the patients as it is," said Leatherman.

Bel Aire says it's project costs will be shared. Eighty-percent will be paid for with grant money and the city will pay the rest. There are four options including three lanes or even fives lanes with a roundabout at 45th street.

Bel Aire believes the intersection at 37th and Woodlawn is the gateway to the city. They say this project has the potential to make a statement. One that people who live in the city can be proud of for years to come.

"You really don't notice between Wichita and Bel Aire and this is an opportunity for the citizens of Bel Aire to make a statement that you've entered Bel Aire."

Leatherman says he's ready but knows the construction phase won't be easy.

"I'm excited about it. I think it would be great for the city. It would be good for me ultimately if we can survive," he said.