DETROIT (WXYZ) — Work is pushing forward to make sure the roads are ready when the I-94 modernization project is expected to start in 2023.
This includes a number of bridge repairs, to better connect the community if there are any road closures on I-94 during the actual construction phase.
Right now, both northbound and southbound ramps to eastbound I-94 are closed.
Work is underway in anticipation for the I-94 modernization project. It includes fixing bridges to make sure when the work does start, people still have safe access across the highway. I spoke with MDOT on what this project will look like. DETAILS: https://t.co/ZuIeiZ8e54 pic.twitter.com/TPSBbn05eg
— Ali Hoxie (@ali_hoxie) August 25, 2020
This is to keep construction workers safe while they build the nearby Second Avenue Bridge. Michigan Department of Transportation spokesperson Rob Morosi says these ramps will likely stay closed past their slated reopening date of late September, likely through late fall or even early winter.
The two other bridges under construction this year include Mt. Elliot and East Grand Boulevard. Work on other bridges in the area have been underway since 2013.
Morosi says a major mile stone was hit this summer when they received permission from from the Federal Highway Administration to move forward with a final design on theI-94 Modernization Project.
The work itself will be from the I-96 interchange to Conner. There are plans to create more lanes to merge onto the highway, and wider shoulders to pull off for crashes.
“The bottom line of the modernization project is safety,” said Morosi.
Work is also planned on The Lodge and I-94 interchange.
“That was the first freeway to freeway interchange built in the country, which is why you have the left lane exit and entrance ramps, those will be completely removed and replaces with standard right lane movements," said Morosi.
Also ahead of the work planned for I-94, fixing pavement from Gratiot to I-696 is causing frequent weekend closures. Twice already this summer the pavement has buckled due to the extreme heat.
