LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Avenue Rehabilitation Project in Lansing has entered phase five, bringing detours, reduced access, and disruptions for local businesses and hospital visitors as roadwork stretches from Lathrop Street to Holmes Street.

The long-term infrastructure project continues to reshape one of Lansing’s most vital corridors. As crews tackle this latest section, business owners and residents are adjusting to the ongoing construction.

Inside Jerusalem Bakery, one of the owners described how customer numbers have dropped. “We’ve definitely seen less foot traffic, but thankfully we’re near the start of this phase, so we’re hoping they finish up our section quickly,” he said.

In addition to retail challenges, University of Michigan Health-Sparrow has been impacted, prompting the hospital to release alternate route maps to ensure patients and visitors can still access the facility.

“The construction is causing delays, but we want to make sure everyone can still find their way to care,” a hospital representative said.

Drivers face detours, loose gravel, and fresh pavement as crews continue improvements to sidewalks, roadbeds, and underground utilities. Some motorists follow posted signs, while others attempt to maneuver through partially completed sections.

Phase six is scheduled to begin in September, with work progressing directly in front of U-M Health-Sparrow and extending past Pennsylvania Avenue. The entire project is slated for completion in October.

This multi-phase construction effort is a key part of Lansing’s broader infrastructure overhaul, aimed at improving accessibility, traffic flow, and safety along Michigan Avenue. The project has already introduced upgraded sidewalks, enhanced lighting, and repaved streets in earlier segments.

City officials urge patience and emphasize the long-term benefits: better road surfaces, safer pedestrian crossings, and more modern utilities.

Local business associations are working with the city to provide marketing support to shops affected by the construction, encouraging residents to continue patronizing their favorite local spots.

The City of Lansing has also launched an updated interactive construction map for residents to track progress and get real-time detour information.

As construction continues through the fall, city officials and hospital staff will keep providing updates on access routes and expected delays to help minimize inconvenience.

Stay tuned for further updates on detours, traffic impacts, and business access as the Michigan Avenue Rehabilitation Project moves into its final stages.

Originally reported by Danny Valle in Fox 47 News.