Categories: CommunityEvents/What's HappeningNews

Upcoming Road Work on I-696 in Oakland County

Construction sign indicating road work on I-696 in Oakland County.

News Summary

Starting Monday at 7 a.m., westbound Interstate 696 in Oakland County will see significant road work, which will have two lanes closed until late July. On May 9, a full closure between I-75 and the Lodge Freeway is scheduled from 9 p.m. until May 19. This construction aims to improve road safety and infrastructure as part of the ongoing Restore the Reuther project. Drivers should plan for detours and remain aware of ongoing road changes in the area.

Heads Up, Oakland County Drivers!

Good news for road warriors and commuters in Oakland County! There’s some important road work coming your way on westbound Interstate 696. Starting this Monday at 7 a.m., you might want to factor in a bit more time for your daily drive because only two lanes will be open on that stretch between Southfield and Lahser roads. This two-lane closure is expected to hang around until late July, so buckle up and prepare for a bit of a bumpy ride!

What’s Happening? Let’s Break it Down

Now, you might be wondering what all the fuss is about. Well, this road work is all about doing some much-needed median work. With road safety and infrastructure being a top priority, crews will be hard at work making sure our roads stay in top shape.

But that’s not all. If you’re planning to drive on westbound I-696 between Interstate 75 and the Lodge Freeway, mark your calendars for May 9. That evening at 9 p.m., the whole stretch will be shut down until May 19 at 5 a.m. That’s right – full closure! So, time to plan that detour to avoid any headaches.

Detour Details

During this full closure, you’ll need to take a detour that leads you south on I-75, then west on Davison Highway (M-8), and finally north on the Lodge Freeway back to I-696. It’s a bit of a trek, but it’s all part of tearing down the Church Street plaza bridge. Don’t worry, though, as there will still be a local westbound lane left open for those needing access to Bermuda Street, Woodward Avenue (M-1), and Coolidge Highway.

What Else is Going On?

And if you’re thinking: “Oh great, just my luck!” – there’s more road work happening on the eastbound lanes of I-696 too. This is all part of the ambitious Restore the Reuther project that’s set to last until fall 2026. Starting May 1, the eastbound side of the Church Street plaza bridge will also undergo demolition for about ten days, but don’t fret, that’s just affecting lanes that are already closed.

Future Plans and Progress

In the long run, all this construction madness is aimed at repairing a whopping amount of roads and bridges across Michigan – without asking you to cough up more taxes. By the end of the construction season, nearly 24,500 lane miles of roads and 1,900 bridges across the state will be either fixed, repaired, or completely replaced! Imagine the smoother rides once this is all done.

Looking ahead, we’re also looking at the final phase of the Restore the Reuther project, which will involve fully rebuilding I-696 between 2025 and 2026. And in 2027, there are plans for even more road work on I-696 from I-75 to Dequindre Road – this will include rebuilding the roadway, bridges, and drainage structures. Don’t let the wait get you down; it’s all for a better, safer driving experience!

Bridge Over Troubled Waters

As part of these improvements, work will cover around 60 bridges, including the Church Street Plaza bridge, during which a walkway detour will be set up. Next year, they’ll be tackling the rebuilding of westbound I-696 from I-75 to Lahser Road, bringing even more upgrades to our beloved roads.

So there you have it, Oakland County! You’re now armed with all the info you need to navigate the upcoming road work with confidence. Safe travels out there, and remember to plan ahead!