Multiple MDOT Projects Force Major Traffic Disruptions Across West Michigan as Construction Season Begins

Michigan Department of Transportation Announces Multiple Major Projects Affecting West Michigan Travel Corridors

By West Michigan State News

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is rolling out a series of significant infrastructure projects across West Michigan beginning in early April, with some work requiring overnight total closures and major detours that will impact daily commutes for residents and businesses throughout the region.

Bridge Improvements in Muskegon County

Starting April 6, MDOT is investing approximately $7 million in critical improvements to the US-31 bridges over I-96 in Muskegon County. The project includes partial deck replacement, new expansion joints, substructure improvements, approach replacement, and new bridge railing for the US-31 bridges over I-96.

Lane closures will be in effect on US-31, I-96 and US-31 business route/Seaway Drive. Intermittent ramp closures will occur throughout the project duration, which runs from April 6 through mid-November. MDOT officials have indicated that some overnight total closures will be necessary on I-96 and US-31 business route to remove the bridge railing and part of the deck.

By the end of the construction, MDOT officials said the changes will improve ride quality and the lifespan of the bridges and interchange. The most up to date closures can be found on MDOT's MIDrive map.

US-31 Rebuilding Near Interlochen

In Grand Traverse County and Benzie County, MDOT's project to rebuild a 7.8-mile section of US-31 could begin as early as April 7. The reconstruction will run from Sullivan Road in Green Lake Township to Reynolds Road in Inland Township, requiring detours on local roads.

This project affects the travel corridor between Grand Traverse County and Benzie County, impacting residents and tourists traveling through the area. The detours will route traffic through local roads in both Green Lake Township and Inland Township.

Livingston County I-96 Traffic Shift

In Livingston County, MDOT is implementing a traffic shift of westbound I-96 traffic to the eastbound side of I-96 from Dorr Road to Chilson Road. The project began on Friday, April 3, and will affect commuters traveling through the area.

This lane shift is part of ongoing efforts to improve safety and traffic flow on I-96, one of the state's most heavily traveled roads. The project impacts businesses and residents in Livingston County who rely on I-96 for their daily commutes and freight transportation.

Regional Impact

These projects are part of MDOT's broader infrastructure investment strategy for Michigan's transportation network. The department is working to modernize aging bridges and improve road conditions across the state.

For West Michigan residents, these projects mean significant disruptions during construction. Commuters should check MDOT's MIDrive map before traveling to stay current on road conditions and alternate routes. Local businesses that depend on truck traffic may also experience reduced access during closure periods.

Construction Season Overview

Construction season across West Michigan has begun with multiple projects requiring lane closures, ramp closures, and detours. The projects span from the Grand Rapids area through Muskegon County and into the northern Lower Peninsula.

MDOT has committed to improving ride quality and extending the lifespan of critical infrastructure throughout the region. While these projects require temporary inconveniences, the long-term benefits include safer roads, reduced maintenance costs, and improved traffic flow for residents and businesses.

What to Expect

• Lane closures on major highways including I-96, US-31, and US-31 business route
• Overnight total closures on certain sections to allow for bridge deck work
• Intermittent ramp closures at major interchanges
• Detours through local roads in construction zones
• Project timelines ranging from several weeks to several months

Residents are encouraged to plan ahead and use MDOT's MIDrive app or website for real-time traffic updates. Local businesses and residents should expect temporary disruptions but long-term improvements to the transportation infrastructure that serves West Michigan communities.