American Refining Group Inc.’s neighbors will hear the sounds of progress and improvement during the coming weeks as work commences to replace the refinery’s only remaining coal boiler.

The $5.5 million investment will ultimately retire the coal boiler, resulting in all three of ARG’s massive boilers being fired by cleaner, more-efficient natural gas. The upgrade will also maintain the refinery’s compliance with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection regulations.

Construction is set to begin Monday at ARG’s Boiler House, which is located just south of Mill Street in the City of Bradford. Noise and vibration should be expected from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday during the following weeks as crews complete the pile driving required for the foundation of the new, environmentally friendly, natural-gas boiler. Nearby residents may also notice heavier truck traffic in the Mill Street area during this period.

ARG staff expect the initial phase of the project to be wrapped up by early March, with the boiler’s commissioning anticipated for late fall 2016. The construction area will be properly marked with signs and barricades for the duration.