Suffolk's summer traffic ground to a halt on the Long Island Expressway at times Saturday due to roadwork.

Several lanes may be closed in both directions throughout the weekend as crews work on the Carlls Straight Path Bridge between exits 51 and 52 in Dix Hills.

The work is part of a $12.8 million state Department of Transportation project to eventually replace the bridge.

"The Carlls Straight Path Bridge is being completely replaced with a new, wider span that will feature larger shoulders and sidewalk, and a center turn lane that will accommodate more vehicles waiting to turn, reducing congestion during peak travel periods," the DOT said in a statement released ahead of the closures. "In addition, the new bridge will have increased vertical clearance above the Long Island Expressway, reducing the possibility of bridge strikes."

Drivers are being urged to avoid the LIE in that area through Sunday morning.