News Summary
Beginning at 8 p.m. on Friday, westbound I-96 will close for ongoing bridge improvements over Fruit Ridge Avenue. Drivers should use exit and re-entry ramps and reduce speed in the detour area. The Michigan Department of Transportation is managing this $30 million project, aimed at enhancing safety and capacity. The improvements will last until 5 a.m. on Monday, and full project completion is expected by December. Stay informed about potential travel impacts during this time.
Walker, MI — A segment of westbound I-96 will be closed this weekend starting at 8 p.m. on Friday, July 25, as part of ongoing bridge improvements over Fruit Ridge Avenue. The closure involves all westbound lanes from the Fruit Ridge Avenue exit, where construction crews will be setting bridge beams. This closure is scheduled to conclude at 5 a.m. on Monday, July 28.
Motorists heading westbound are advised to utilize the exit and re-entry ramps during this period, which will create a temporary detour. It is essential for drivers to reduce speed in the detour area to ensure their safety and the safety of construction workers.
Details of the Project
The work is being managed by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) as part of a comprehensive $30 million project aimed at rebuilding and widening Fruit Ridge Avenue. The specific improvements for this project focus on a section that spans from 3 Mile Road to Northridge Drive.
The Fruit Ridge Avenue bridge over I-96 has been in place since 1961 and is now undergoing significant renovations to enhance both safety and capacity. A major portion of the project funding has come from a $25 million grant awarded by the Michigan Legislature, underscoring the importance of infrastructure improvements in the region.
Timeline and Conditions
The entire project is slated for completion by December 2023, although work schedules may be subject to change depending on weather conditions. As the project progresses, drivers are encouraged to stay informed about potential impacts on their travel routes.
Accessing Additional Information
Residents and travelers can find a complete list of ongoing and upcoming construction projects across the state through an online map and construction list provided by MDOT. This resource can help individuals plan their commutes and stay aware of any other road work that might affect their travel.
By taking necessary precautions and being informed about the construction projects in their area, drivers can navigate the detours smoothly and contribute to a safer road environment while the improvements are underway.
For further updates on this project and others, it’s recommended to consult the MDOT resources as the situation may evolve based on construction progress and weather patterns.
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Additional Resources
- MLive: I-96 to Close This Weekend for Bridge Work in Kent County
- Wikipedia: Bridge Construction
- Wood TV: I-96 Closure at Fruit Ridge Bridge This Weekend
- Google Search: I-96 construction Kent County
- WZZM: Fruit Ridge Avenue Bridge Over I-96 Demolished This Weekend
- Google Scholar: Bridge Construction Projects
- Fox 17: Fatal Crash Closes I-96 West at Leonard Avenue in Grand Rapids
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Highway Safety
- WGHN: News Article
- Google News: I-96 Traffic Updates
