MDOT Launches Construction Projects Ahead of Winter in Michigan

News Summary

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is set to begin several construction projects statewide starting September 14. The initiatives include lane closures on southbound I-75 in Genesee County for necessary repairs, a resurfacing project in New Baltimore, and critical repairs on five bridges in Grand Rapids. These projects aim to improve Michigan’s transportation infrastructure before winter weather impacts travel. Travelers are advised to stay informed about construction zones and utilize MDOT’s resources for planning trips.

Flint, Michigan – The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is initiating several construction projects across the state starting the week of September 14, aiming to complete vital infrastructure work before winter weather sets in.

One of the first projects includes a daylong lane closure on southbound Interstate 75 in Genesee County on Monday, which will slow traffic in the Flint area. This lane closure is a part of ongoing repair efforts that encompass concrete slope paving on the I-75 overpass above Fenton Road. The overall repair project is backed by a significant investment of $2.7 million, targeting enhancements to overpasses and other structures within Genesee, St. Clair, Arenac, Isabella, and Clare counties. The specific work on the I-75 overpass is scheduled for completion by Monday afternoon, with the entire project expected to wrap up next month.

Additional work will commence in New Baltimore, where eastbound Michigan 29 (Green Street) will undergo resurfacing starting Thursday morning. The resurfacing project spans from Huntley Street to Murdick Drive, although one westbound lane will remain operational during the process. The westbound resurfacing is set for a later date. This project is part of a broader $3.2 million initiative that not only includes resurfacing but also upgrades to sidewalk curb ramps, improvements to pedestrian traffic signals, and new pavement markings in both New Baltimore and Chesterfield Township.

In the Grand Rapids area, MDOT will also begin critical repairs on five bridges at the Interstate 196 and U.S.-131 interchange starting Monday. The bridge repair work will consist of fixing concrete substructures, enhancing pavement slopes, replacing bearings, and repainting. Lanes will be closed on both eastbound and westbound I-196 at U.S.-131 during the course of these repairs. Additionally, the westbound I-196 ramp to southbound U.S.-131 will be shut down. It is anticipated that eastbound I-196 will be closed at U.S.-131 for two weekends, with specific closure dates yet to be confirmed. The entire Grand Rapids bridge repair project is scheduled for completion by late October.

Throughout the week, MDOT will be conducting routine bridge inspections across Michigan from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Travelers are encouraged to stay informed by checking travel advisories and to navigate with caution in construction zones. To assist with travel planning, MDOT maintains a website featuring a Mi Drive Map, which provides comprehensive construction and traffic information for roads within the state.

These initiatives underscore MDOT’s commitment to maintaining and improving Michigan’s transportation infrastructure as the state prepares for the challenges of winter weather.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• The Detroit News
• Wikipedia: Michigan Department of Transportation
• Detroit Free Press
• Google Search: MDOT road construction Michigan
• Lansing State Journal
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Transportation
• Detroit Free Press
• Google News: MDOT construction updates