(KNZA)--Motorists in Atchison County should expect delays this week as a chip seal project is underway on U.S. Highway 159.

The Kansas Department of Transportation says the work covers about 15 miles from the north city limits of Effingham to the south city limits of Horton. The project began Monday and is expected to be completed by Thursday, weather permitting.

Traffic is reduced to one lane through the work zone and is being directed by flaggers and a pilot car. Drivers should plan for delays of up to 15 minutes.

Vance Brothers of Kansas City, Missouri, is the contractor on the $520,000 project.