The charming town of Commerce Township, Michigan, has some significant updates to share on the ongoing project of Farr Street Bridge’s replacement. The news came out today that the bridge over the Huron River, between Carroll Lake Road and North Commerce Road, will remain closed longer than expected.
The Road Commission for Oakland County (RCOC) was aiming to open the bridge before the commencement of the new school year on August 26th, however, the reopening of the Farr Street bridge is now expected to take place on September 20th. This change was necessitated due to the late arrival of the precast bridge components and unforeseen weather-related challenges that have impacted the overall project timeline.
Given the interruption to regular traffic flow, RCOC has been in close coordination with the Walled Lake School District to ensure students and parents have a safe and convenient passage to the adjacent Commerce Elementary School. Starting August 26th, school buses will be rerouted to use West Commerce Road to Broadway Street to Farr Street. RCOC advises parents dropping off students to use wait points at Comstock or Ponderosa streets.
“We understand the inconvenience this delay may cause and appreciate the community’s patience as we work to complete the project safely and effectively,” expressed RCOC Managing Director, Dennis Kolar. The $1.7 million project, which commenced on June 24, is primarily funded with Michigan Local Bridge program funds, with RCOC providing the necessary matching funds.
The bridge’s replacement project covers:
- Removal of the previous structure with two failing nine-foot-diameter culverts
- Installation of a new bridge to allow future sidewalk installation on the north side of the street
- Paving with asphalt on Farr Street between Broadway and Elkin streets
- Placing of curbs and gutters in the project vicinity
- Improvement of the overall drainage system
- Construction of a new pathway to access Mill Race Park
For more in-depth details about the progress of this project, folks can visit the Farr Street Culvert Replacement page at RCOC’s official website. The project’s contractor, C.A. Hull Company, is also based out of Commerce Township. RCOC is always ready to address any queries related to the project through various methods including online, telephone, and email channels.
