The tension is mounting in certain circles as we all await what doom may befall us once the Ball Square Broadway Bridge closing takes place.

What is already not the most ideal traffic situation will surely become a snarl of some measurable magnitude once the big event becomes a fact of our daily life. How bad it can be is anyone’s guess, but we can surely hope for the best, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable frustration.

Thankfully, measures are being taken to make the situation as bearable as possible. City and MBTA planners have meticulously charted the most logical detour routes as are possible. As imperfect as they may be – and their quality can only be measured after being put into practice – it’s what we have, so we’d better make the best of it.

That means following the new rules of the road, remaining as calm and courteous as possible, and allowing extra time in our daily commutes.

A good amount of attentiveness will also be required, as detour routes will be generously festooned with a myriad of arcane signage, literally telling us where to go. And, of course, where we cannot go.

It will be a test of our mettle as a civilized body, of our ability to weather the outrageous fortunes of progress.

We are up to the task. We have lived through harder times, all of us.

Keep your humanity intact, your eyes on the rear bumper just ahead of you, and bite down. And oh yes, do heed all those signs up ahead. Your neighbor’s very safety depends on it.