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Michigan Avenue Construction Impacting Local Businesses

Local businesses are adapting to ongoing construction on Michigan Avenue.

News Summary

The ongoing Michigan Avenue construction project in Lansing has been challenging for local businesses since April, as road closures and detours disrupt operations. The project aims to enhance pedestrian and bicycle accessibility, with significant developments expected around the 4th of July. Businesses like The Swap Meet are adapting by using effective signage and open storefronts to maintain customer access. The comprehensive $14.1 million project includes road reconstruction and safety improvements for cyclists, promising benefits to the community once completed.

Lansing is currently experiencing challenges due to the ongoing Michigan Avenue construction project, which has been affecting local businesses since its inception in April. This project, now in its fourth phase, aims to improve pedestrian and bicycle accessibility along Michigan Avenue and is expected to conclude by fall 2023.

The construction is progressing in a staged manner, with significant developments anticipated around the 4th of July. Following this period, two additional phases of the project are scheduled to be completed within the year. As a result of this ongoing work, several businesses located on Michigan Avenue are enduring disruptions, directly impacting their operations and customer access.

The Michigan Avenue Rehabilitation Project has initiated substantial road closures, particularly in Phase Four, which affects the stretch from Leslie to Lathrop streets, lasting until early July. Traffic detours have been established, redirecting eastbound vehicles to Saginaw Street and westbound traffic to Grand River Avenue and Oakland Avenue.

In reaction to these challenges, businesses along Michigan Avenue have been implementing adaptive measures to maintain visibility and attract patrons. For instance, many storefronts have opted to keep doors open and utilize signage effectively to draw in customers despite the construction disruptions.

The Swap Meet, a local business that has operated in its current location for 13 years, exemplifies the resilience of storefronts within the construction zone. Specializing in vintage and modern gaming systems, The Swap Meet continues to draw customers from both East Lansing and afar, emphasizing the importance of maintaining clear access for potential buyers during this period of construction.

The Michigan Avenue Rehabilitation Project has a comprehensive budget of approximately $14.1 million, drawing from various funding sources. The scope of the project includes fundamental road reconstruction, traffic signal modernization, utility upgrades, and the reduction of road lanes from five to four, aimed at improving traffic flow and safety.

Notably, safety concerns for cyclists have been a significant factor driving the need for this project. Evaluations of road conditions have indicated the necessity for enhancements to support safer biking routes, which the construction aims to address.

In addition to the current project, a smaller follow-up initiative may commence downtown following the completion of the Michigan Avenue construction. This future project could focus on enhancing medians and pedestrian crossings, further indicating the city’s commitment to improving urban infrastructure.

Throughout these challenges, communication and cooperation among local businesses on Michigan Avenue have emerged as critical strategies for navigating the ongoing construction. As stakeholders come together to address their common issues, the adaptability of local businesses remains a vital component in helping them withstand the impact of these improvements.

As the project continues, businesses and community members will need to remain vigilant and informed about upcoming phases and traffic changes. The ongoing enhancements to Michigan Avenue promise to benefit mobility and safety for residents and visitors alike once completed.