Motorists in Oakland County experienced some traffic ups and downs over the past week. Last week, a Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) vehicle struck a power pole on I-696, causing significant traffic delays. More recently, FOX 2 Detroit reported that westbound I-696 was shut down due to downed power lines, forcing drivers to find alternative routes around the Bermuda Mohawk location in Ferndale. The report noted that traffic had to be diverted to I-75 and then back onto I-696 at Woodward Avenue.
However, the recent transit troubles have seen some resolution. According to WXYZ, the closed section has now reopened due to the swift action of DTE Energy crews who "installed a new wire and pole," wrapping up the repairs just before rush hour began and allowing the flow of traffic to resume as usual.
But with every fix comes a new challenge, and the Road Commission for Oakland County (RCOC) has announced further disruptions slated for this weekend. Per ClickOnDetroit, I-696 exit ramps to Orchard Lake Road and 12 Mile Road in Farmington Hills will be closed for paving work, starting from Friday at 7 p.m. until Monday at 6 a.m.
While drivers will still be able to traverse northbound and southbound on Orchard Lake Road, 12 Mile Road will be closed at the intersection. The RCOC has recommended that, for those who are affected by the closure, a detour is 12 Mile Road to Middlebelt Road, then to 13 Mile Road, and onto Farmington Road, before circling back to 12 Mile Road. Another similar closure in the area is expected the following weekend, from September 26 to 29.
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