Michigan Eases Labor Day Traffic with Construction Suspensions

As Labor Day weekend approaches, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is taking significant steps to alleviate traffic congestion by suspending work on a substantial number of road projects.

Starting at 3 p.m. on Friday, August 29, and continuing until 6 a.m. on Tuesday, September 2, MDOT will remove lane restrictions on 100 out of 164 ongoing projects statewide.

This initiative aims to provide smoother travel for residents and visitors during one of the year's busiest travel periods.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer emphasized the importance of this measure, stating, "By the end of this construction season, we will have fixed, repaired, or replaced nearly 24,500 lane miles of roads and 1,900 bridges, supporting thousands of good-paying, local jobs without raising taxes by a dime."

While many projects will see a temporary halt, certain work zones will remain active due to safety and logistical considerations.

Notable ongoing closures include:

Southern Michigan:

- **I-69 Business Loop (Cochran Road), Eaton County**: Closed at the Battle Creek River.

- **I-75, Monroe County**: One lane closed in each direction between Erie and Otter Creek roads; southbound entrance and exit ramps to Otter Creek Road are closed and detoured.

- **I-94, Jackson County**: All exit and entrance ramps at Dearing Road are closed; Dearing Road is closed at I-94 and detoured.

Wayne County:

- **John R Street ramp to westbound I-94**: Closed.

- **M-39 (Southfield Freeway)**: Lane closures in each direction between I-94 and M-153 (Ford Road).

Travelers should also be aware that the Mackinac Bridge will be closed to public traffic on Labor Day from 6:30 a.m. to noon for the annual bridge walk.

Southbound I-75 and US-2 traffic will be stopped at Exit 344 on the north side of the bridge; northbound I-75 traffic will be stopped at Exit 337 on the south end.

For more information, visit the Mackinac Bridge Authority website or call 906-643-7600.

MDOT urges all drivers to remain vigilant, adhere to posted speed limits, and avoid distractions, especially in areas where construction equipment and altered traffic patterns may still be present.

By taking these precautions, motorists can contribute to a safer and more efficient travel experience during the holiday weekend.

For the most up-to-date information on MDOT projects and traffic conditions, visit the Mi Drive website.

Stay safe and enjoy your Labor Day travels!