LANSING, Mich. — Road construction on Michigan Avenue has reached a critical stretch directly in front of University of Michigan Health-Sparrow, impacting one of the busiest corridors in the city.

The latest phase of the project begins in mid-September and is scheduled to continue through mid-October, extending work west in front of the hospital to South Pennsylvania Avenue.

Hospital leaders and city officials emphasized that despite the disruption, services will not be interrupted.

“Throughout the project, all emergency services will remain fully operational, and the hospital will stay open and accessible,” UM Health-Sparrow confirmed in a statement.

To minimize congestion, only one lane of traffic along Michigan Avenue in front of the hospital will remain open at all times. However, significant delays are expected, especially during peak travel hours.

Alternative Routes and Patient Guidance

Motorists are being urged to avoid the construction zone when possible. “Most motorists are encouraged to access UM Health-Sparrow buildings via the rear entrances on Eureka and Jerome streets to avoid traffic congestion,” officials advised.

To help patients and visitors navigate the changing conditions, UM Health-Sparrow has launched a dedicated construction updates webpage with traffic alerts, maps of suggested alternative routes, and regular project updates: UMHealthSparrow.org/news/navigating-michigan-avenue-construction.

Broader Impact on Lansing

The Michigan Avenue project is part of a larger infrastructure upgrade designed to improve road safety, expand access, and modernize traffic flow through Lansing’s east side. Businesses and residents along the corridor have been notified of the ongoing construction, and city officials have pledged to maintain clear communication throughout the process.

The project is expected to be completed by late fall, weather permitting. Once finished, the improvements aim to provide smoother travel for commuters and safer access for patients, visitors, and emergency vehicles serving the hospital.

Originally reported by Jade Chaparro in WILX 10.