LANSING, Mich. — As the $14 million Michigan Avenue construction project progresses westward toward downtown Lansing, organizations and businesses along the corridor are voicing concern over the disruptions to their operations.

Now in Phase 4, the roadwork currently affects the stretch between Horton Street and Lathrop Street, with additional phases extending into the fall.

For the Women’s Center of Greater Lansing, which offers critical mental health and support services, the timing and impact of the construction have posed major challenges.

“Our bottom line is not financial. Our bottom line is helping people, and fewer people are able to be helped during the construction,” said Rebecca Kasen, executive director of the center.

More than half of the center’s clients rely on bus service, which has been rerouted due to the roadwork. Meanwhile, noise and vibration from heavy machinery have disrupted therapy sessions.

“Our therapy building is shaking half the time from the construction, so we've had to move a lot of people to telehealth, which is not ideal,” Kasen explained.

Roughly 30% of their clients are uncomfortable with telehealth, according to Kasen. This group includes older adults, unhoused individuals, and people with limited tech access or privacy, many of whom depend on in-person appointments for effective care.

The center’s accessibility has also been compromised. When sidewalks were temporarily closed off, people with physical disabilities had to reroute through a back ramp, disrupting the center’s flow of services.

Despite the challenges, Kasen emphasized the need for clear communication from city officials moving forward.

“We want transparency and input into how these kinds of projects affect the social infrastructure that supports this city,” she said.

Phase 4 of the Michigan Avenue project is slated for completion by July 2, followed by Phase 5 beginning July 7, which will cover the stretch between Lathrop Street and the University of Michigan Health-Sparrow campus. The final phase is scheduled to wrap up in October, weather permitting.

City officials have said the reconstruction will result in wider sidewalks, improved lighting, bike lanes, and new utility infrastructure, all aimed at revitalizing the corridor. However, community organizations and small businesses are urging the city to weigh short-term accessibility impacts against the long-term benefits.

A public update on the project timeline and detour adjustments is expected later this month. Residents and organizations are encouraged to visit Lansing's official construction updates page for real-time information and feedback opportunities.

Originally reported by Anish Topiwala in WKAR.