We've taken the time to "spring forward" with our clocks, the birds are returning, plants are growing, the temperatures are warmer, the ice cream shops are open, and the orange barrels and "road closed" signs are appearing on the roads...It must be spring in Michigan!

On Friday, April 9th, 2021 at 9 pm, Eastbound I-196 will be completely shut down at US-131. Traffic will be detoured north on US-131 to I-96, and then proceed east on I-96 to rejoin I-196 as it becomes I-96 near the East Beltline. This shut down will be in effect through July.

EB 196 Shutdown
MDOT/michigan.gov
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This is all part of the Michigan Department of Transportation's plan to improve several bridges at the I-196/US-131 interchange, including replacing the bridge deck on eastbound I-196 over the Grand River. I-196 will be rebuilt and widened with an additional lane in each direction between Fuller and Maryland Avenues. This project also includes rebuilding the eastbound and westbound I-196 bridges over Plymouth Avenue.

Also with this project, two lanes of westbound I-196 will remain open into downtown Grand Rapids, and one lane of eastbound I-196 will remain open beginning at the Ionia Avenue on ramp near Michigan Street. Lane closures and traffic shifts will be in effect throughout the season and Plymouth Avenue will remain closed under I-196 through November.

For your morning and evening commutes the first couple days of this road closure, expect major delays and backups on I-196, US-131, and I-96 as people try to get used to a new route to and from their destination. Usually after a few days, people find alternative detours that work just as good, or better, than the posted detours.

 

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