As if the double-lane closure on downtown Pratt Street weren't enough, the city Department of Transportation started a series of street closings downtown as part of the preparation for next year's Grand Prix auto race.

For about two weeks, the city is closing three of five lanes of southbound Light Street between Lombard and Pratt streets for resurfacing work on the intersection. Two of four lanes of northbound Light and Calvert streets will also be closed for similar work.

Monday morning rush hour traffic appeared to be moving smoothly on the affected roadways, including Light Street between Conaway and Pratt. Nonetheless, the city is suggesting the use of alternate routes.

The work began Saturday.