Michigan motorists should prepare for significant road closures across the state this week. Over 70 road construction projects and special events are scheduled to begin between Sunday, September 28, and Saturday, October 4. These activities will lead to various levels of traffic disruptions on primary state roads, according to the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT).
The continued warm weather in Michigan provides favorable conditions for construction crews to advance these projects. Drivers are advised to stay informed about specific closures in their routes and to follow all posted signs in work zones. State officials emphasize the importance of slowing down and exercising caution when approaching construction areas.
Key Takeaways
- Over 70 road projects and special events are planned this week.
- Major closures will affect I-75, U.S. 131, M-54, I-94, and U.S. 31.
- Drivers must slow down and follow posted signs in work zones.
- All construction schedules are dependent on weather conditions.
Major Roadways Impacted by Construction
Several key Michigan highways will experience closures. These include sections of I-75 in Monroe and Oakland counties, U.S. 131 in Kalamazoo County, M-54 in Genesee County, I-94 in Washtenaw and Wayne counties, and U.S. 31 in Muskegon County. These closures are part of ongoing efforts to maintain and improve the state's infrastructure.
MDOT provides a comprehensive list of all road projects through its online map and construction list. This resource is crucial for drivers planning their routes and avoiding delays. Checking this information before travel is highly recommended.
Specific Closure Details by Region
Below is a summary of ten significant closures scheduled for the upcoming week. Each project is subject to change based on weather conditions and unforeseen circumstances.
Traffic Advisory
MDOT reminds all drivers to plan extra travel time when passing through construction zones. Adhering to reduced speed limits is critical for worker safety and preventing accidents.
I-94 in Washtenaw County
Starting at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, eastbound I-94 will have a single lane closed daily. This closure will extend from Pinewood Street to Burr Oak Drive. The daily operational hours for this closure are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and it is scheduled to continue through October 9.
U.S. 131 in Kalamazoo County
This highway will experience left lane closures in both directions. The closures will last for approximately six hours daily, specifically between Business Route U.S. 131 and H Avenue. These daily closures are set from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday.
M-89 in Allegan County
A single-lane closure on Lincoln Road (M-89) is scheduled to begin Monday morning. This closure will affect the section between 113th Avenue and Jefferson Road. The lane will be closed from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, continuing through Friday.
M-54 in Genesee County
Crews will close parts of Dort Highway (M-54) between Atherton Road and Lapeer Road. These single-lane closures are scheduled daily from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. and are expected to last through late October.
Long-Term Projects and Detours
Some projects will have longer durations, requiring drivers to adjust their commutes for an extended period. These longer-term closures often involve more complex construction tasks, such as ramp reconstruction or bridge work.
Importance of Infrastructure
Michigan's road infrastructure is vital for its economy and residents. These construction projects, while causing temporary inconvenience, are essential for ensuring the safety and longevity of the state's transportation network. Investments in infrastructure lead to smoother commutes and improved travel efficiency in the long run.
I-94 in Wayne County
The exit ramp from eastbound I-94 to northbound Southfield Freeway (M-39) will have its left lane closed for construction. This work began on Monday and is expected to finish in mid-December.
Additionally, the Southfield entrance ramps to I-94 closed on Monday. These ramps are scheduled to reopen on December 19. During this closure, drivers will be detoured using M-153, McGraw Avenue, and Weir Street. This detour may add significant time to travel for those who regularly use these ramps.
I-75BL in Oakland County
Southbound Woodward Avenue (I-75 BL) in Pontiac will have two lanes closed for six hours on Tuesday. The affected area stretches from Huron Street (M-59) to Orchard Lake Road. The two lanes will be closed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Ongoing total closure of Auburn Road near Woodward Avenue may also contribute to traffic congestion in this area, so drivers should be prepared for potential delays.
"We urge all drivers to stay alert and exercise patience in these work zones," said an MDOT spokesperson. "Worker safety is our top priority, and adhering to posted speed limits is non-negotiable."
Additional Closures Across the State
Several other regions will also experience closures, impacting local and regional travel. These projects range from short-term lane closures to overnight work requiring multiple lanes to be shut down.
- U.S. 31 in Muskegon County: A six-hour single-lane closure is scheduled for U.S. 31 at Pontaluna Road. One lane will be shut down from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday.
- U.S. 12 in Berrien County: One eastbound lane of Buffalo Street (U.S. 12) from Abby Lane to Clay Street will close at 7 a.m. on Wednesday in New Buffalo. Intermittent lane closures are planned until October 17.
I-75 in Monroe County
The northbound highway will have intermittent double-lane closures overnight on Thursday. This will occur in the area between Otter Creek Road and the Monroe Welcome Center. The closure is slated for 8 p.m. Thursday to 5 a.m. Friday.
Furthermore, the northbound segment between Erie Road and Otter Creek Road will have double-lane closures from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both Thursday and Friday. Additionally, two lanes in both directions around Dunbar Road will be closed from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday. These multiple closures indicate significant work in the Monroe County area.
Saginaw Road/Dixie Highway in Genesee and Oakland Counties
Starting at 10 a.m. on Friday, crews are scheduled to close southbound Saginaw Road/Dixie Highway from Baldwin Road to Belford Road. This road segment will remain closed through the entire weekend. Drivers will be detoured using Baldwin Road, Holly Road, and Grange Hall Road. This weekend closure will require drivers to plan alternate routes for recreational and essential travel.
According to MDOT data, road construction projects are essential for maintaining the structural integrity of Michigan's transportation network. The agency invests millions annually in repairs, resurfacing, and new construction to ensure safe and efficient travel for residents and visitors alike. These projects are a continuous effort to keep up with wear and tear from traffic and weather conditions.
Motorists are encouraged to check MDOT's official channels for the latest updates on these and other projects. Real-time information can help drivers avoid unexpected delays and choose the most efficient routes. Awareness and careful driving are key during this period of extensive roadwork.
