Motorists cruising through Kalamazoo might anticipate some construction-related slow-downs in the coming months, but the result looks smoother. The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is kicking off a hefty expansion of the US-131 interchange north of the city, intent on enhancing access for businesses and residents alike.
According to an announcement from the Michigan Department of Transportation, the project, which costs around $19 million, began earlier this week. The highlight of this infrastructure upgrade is the new ramps connecting northbound US-131 to the US-131 Business Route (BR) and from US-131 BR to southbound US-131. With two new bridges on the docket, the work will be completed by November.
Driving through the zone won't be free of disruptions, though. Motorists should be prepped for single-lane closures on both highways involved. However, they'll remain navigable in both directions throughout most of the project's life span. Drivers can expect full closures over five select weekends, with detour routes marked once dates are firmed up.
The US-131 BR has been in place since 1964 and now looks to stride into the future with assistance from Michigan Sen. Sean McCann, Rep. Julie Rogers, and former U.S. Congressman Fred Upton, who helped secure the necessary funds. Michigan.gov's press material reinforces the project's economic promise, indicating an expected support of 181 jobs directly and indirectly related to the expansion.
