Detroit, Michigan, November 14, 2025
The Michigan Department of Transportation has completed the eastbound phase of the I-696 rebuild between M-10 and I-75 and is moving into the westbound reconstruction. Westbound traffic will be reduced to three lanes with several ramps remaining open and others closed; a signed detour uses I-75, M-8 and M-10. The multi-year Restore the Reuther project includes roadway rebuilding, drainage work and repairs to 60 bridges, including the Church Street Plaza bridge which will have a pedestrian walkway detour during repairs. Communities along the corridor should expect traffic impacts and follow posted detours and reduced speed limits for safety.
Detroit, Michigan – The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has announced the completion of the eastbound reconstruction phase of I-696 between M-10 and I-75, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing “Restore the Reuther” project. This development sets the stage for the upcoming westbound reconstruction phase, which is scheduled to commence on November 16, 2025, and is expected to continue through late 2026.
Upcoming Westbound Reconstruction Phase
Starting at 10 a.m. on Sunday, November 16, 2025, MDOT will initiate the westbound reconstruction of I-696 from I-75 to Lahser Road. During this phase, westbound I-696 will be reduced to three lanes, with specific entrance and exit ramps remaining open. The affected ramps include:
- I-75
- M-1 (Woodward Avenue)
- Southfield Road
- US-24 (Telegraph Road)/M-10 (Lodge Freeway)/Lahser Road
Conversely, the following westbound entrance and exit ramps will be closed throughout the reconstruction period:
- Couzens Avenue
- Bermuda/Hilton Road
- Coolidge Highway
- Greenfield Road
- Evergreen Road
Detour Routes
Motorists traveling westbound on I-696 are advised to utilize the following detour route:
- Exit at southbound I-75
- Proceed westbound on M-8 (Davison Freeway)
- Continue northbound on M-10 (Lodge Freeway) to rejoin westbound I-696
Project Overview
The “Restore the Reuther” project is a comprehensive initiative aimed at rebuilding I-696 to enhance safety and traffic flow. The project encompasses the reconstruction of the roadway, bridge work, and drainage structures. Notably, 60 bridges are being repaired, including the Church Street Plaza bridge that contains Victoria Park. During the rebuilding of this bridge, a walkway detour will be in place to ensure pedestrian safety. The westbound reconstruction phase is expected to be completed by late 2026, with further major road work planned for 2027 between I-75 and Dequindre Road. This work includes additional rebuilding of the roadway, bridge improvements, and drainage structures.
Impact on Local Communities
The reconstruction efforts will affect several communities along the I-696 corridor, including Ferndale, Hazel Park, Huntington Woods, Lathrup Village, Madison Heights, Oak Park, Pleasant Ridge, Royal Oak, Southfield, and Warren. Residents and commuters are encouraged to plan their routes accordingly and stay informed about project developments through official MDOT communications.
Safety Measures and Recommendations
MDOT emphasizes the importance of adhering to posted detour signs and speed limits within construction zones to ensure the safety of both workers and drivers. Travelers are advised to allow extra time for their commutes and to stay updated on project progress through MDOT’s official channels.
Conclusion
The completion of the eastbound reconstruction phase and the upcoming westbound reconstruction signify substantial progress in the “Restore the Reuther” project. These efforts are part of MDOT’s ongoing commitment to improving Michigan’s transportation infrastructure, aiming to provide safer and more efficient travel for all road users.
FAQs
- What is the “Restore the Reuther” project?
- The “Restore the Reuther” project is a comprehensive initiative by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) aimed at rebuilding I-696 to enhance safety and traffic flow. The project includes reconstructing the roadway, bridge work, and drainage structures, with 60 bridges being repaired, including the Church Street Plaza bridge that contains Victoria Park. During the rebuilding of this bridge, a walkway detour will be in place to ensure pedestrian safety. The westbound reconstruction phase is expected to be completed by late 2026, with further major road work planned for 2027 between I-75 and Dequindre Road. This work includes additional rebuilding of the roadway, bridge improvements, and drainage structures.
- When does the westbound reconstruction phase of I-696 begin?
- The westbound reconstruction phase of I-696 is scheduled to commence on November 16, 2025, at 10 a.m., and is expected to continue through late 2026.
- Which westbound I-696 ramps will remain open during the reconstruction?
- During the westbound reconstruction phase, the following ramps will remain open:
- I-75
- M-1 (Woodward Avenue)
- Southfield Road
- US-24 (Telegraph Road)/M-10 (Lodge Freeway)/Lahser Road
- Which westbound I-696 ramps will be closed during the reconstruction?
- The following westbound entrance and exit ramps will be closed throughout the reconstruction period:
- Couzens Avenue
- Bermuda/Hilton Road
- Coolidge Highway
- Greenfield Road
- Evergreen Road
- What is the recommended detour route for westbound I-696 traffic?
- Motorists traveling westbound on I-696 are advised to utilize the following detour route:
- Exit at southbound I-75
- Proceed westbound on M-8 (Davison Freeway)
- Continue northbound on M-10 (Lodge Freeway) to rejoin westbound I-696
- Which communities are affected by the I-696 reconstruction project?
- The reconstruction efforts will affect several communities along the I-696 corridor, including Ferndale, Hazel Park, Huntington Woods, Lathrup Village, Madison Heights, Oak Park, Pleasant Ridge, Royal Oak, Southfield, and Warren. Residents and commuters are encouraged to plan their routes accordingly and stay informed about project developments through official MDOT communications.
Key Features of the I-696 Reconstruction Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Name | Restore the Reuther |
| Eastbound Completion | Completed |
| Westbound Start Date | November 16, 2025 |
| Expected Westbound Completion | Late 2026 |
| Bridges Under Repair | 60 bridges, including Church Street Plaza bridge |
| Communities Affected | Ferndale, Hazel Park, Huntington Woods, Lathrup Village, Madison Heights, Oak Park, Pleasant Ridge, Royal Oak, Southfield, Warren |
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