News Summary

A planned road closure along M-43 in Delton for a culvert replacement project from June 6 to July 27 has caused concern among local residents and business owners. The timing of the closure during the peak summer season has raised economic worries, as businesses fear a drop in traffic. Barry County officials acknowledge the disruption but emphasize the infrastructure’s importance. A proposed Senate bill may offer relief to affected businesses. Despite the challenges, local business owners express hope for maintaining operations during the project.

Delton – A planned road closure along M-43 in Delton has sparked concerns among local residents and business owners regarding its potential impact. The closure is necessary for a culvert replacement project, expected to last six to eight weeks, during which traffic will be detoured around the town.

The closure, specifically between Milo Road and Delton Road, will begin on June 6 and is scheduled to end on July 27. Originally, the project was slated to start on May 27, leading to worries about the timing colliding with the busy summer season for local businesses.

Business owners, including Doug Blesch of Bowens Family Dining, have criticized the decision to conduct repairs during prime business months. They argue that the project could have been scheduled during the quieter seasons in spring or fall to mitigate the economic impact on local establishments.

Barry County Drain Commissioner Jim Dull has acknowledged the frustration felt by residents and businesses alike. He noted that while the road closure is disruptive, it is essential for replacing an aging culvert, a vital infrastructure component, which will subsequently allow for the repaving of M-43.

The culvert being installed is notably large and built to accommodate wildlife, contributing to the project’s extended timeline. The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) transferred oversight of the project to the Barry County Drain Commission in September 2024, while still funding it. The project’s budget ranges between $1.3 million and $1.5 million.

Delays in kickoff were primarily due to bureaucratic challenges, including an essential special permit for a protected wetland area, which was not obtained until January. Once the permit was secured, the order for the culvert took over four months to fulfill. Additionally, a problem arose with a sewer line that had been incorrectly installed, obstructing the planned culvert location and necessitating a costly relocation, which added an expense of over $150,000.

The scope of the road closure has been adjusted, now focusing solely on the section of M-43 between 11742 S. and 11892 S. While this closure is in effect, adjacent roads will remain accessible to traffic.

Following the completion of the culvert replacement, repaving of M-43 is set to commence in August. Officials have indicated that this latter phase of work is not expected to result in the complete closure of any additional road segments.

Despite the construction challenges ahead, Doug Blesch has expressed optimism, assuring that Delton will remain open for business throughout the summer. The community is working toward minimizing the economic disruption caused by project-related road closures.

In response to the challenges faced by businesses during construction projects, proposed Senate Bill No. 92 aims to assist those affected. The legislation would permit businesses to seek reimbursement for losses related to road construction delays or unexpected closures.

As the commencement of the roadwork approaches, local stakeholders are closely monitoring developments and advocating for measures that will support businesses during this transitional period.