LANSING, Mich. — Michigan motorists should prepare for a challenging summer commute as a surge in road construction projects gets underway statewide, fueled by a major increase in infrastructure funding.
State officials say a funding agreement reached last year will inject at least $1 billion annually into road and bridge improvements, accelerating long-needed repairs but also increasing short-term disruptions for drivers.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer acknowledged the trade-off, offering a candid message to residents navigating construction zones.
“Drivers, when you hit the road this spring and summer, we ask that you slow down and pay attention, there’s Michiganders at work here,” Whitmer said. “Construction season is officially open and we’re going to continue to fix the damn roads in Michigan.”
The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) expects to repair roughly 2,000 lane miles of state-owned roads and nearly 100 bridges during the 2026 construction season. Over Whitmer’s tenure, that brings totals to about 26,500 lane miles and nearly 2,000 bridges repaired, not including local road projects.
The increased investment stems from expanded transportation revenue sources, including taxes on fuel, marijuana and corporate profits. While the funding is expected to deliver more durable infrastructure, it also means more work zones, lane closures and detours across key corridors.
Among the most impactful projects this year are major upgrades to I-696 in Oakland County, I-94 and I-96 in Wayne County, U.S. 127 near Lansing, and I-69 in Genesee County.
One of the largest disruptions will occur along I-696, where approximately 10 miles of eastbound lanes are closed through November as part of the “Restore the Reuther” project. The work includes rebuilding the roadway, repairing nearly 60 bridges and replacing a major overpass.
In Genesee County, a $33.5 million project on I-69 will close eastbound lanes through the fall while crews repair pavement and 15 structures. Traffic in both directions will share the westbound side, creating potential congestion.
Metro Detroit drivers will also encounter delays along I-94, where a four-year, $353 million reconstruction effort has begun. The project spans nearly 13 miles and will impact access routes near Detroit Metropolitan Airport, though officials say access will remain open.
In western Michigan, a $130 million rebuild of I-96 in Ionia County is entering its final phase, with lane closures expected into late fall. Meanwhile, Muskegon County will see reconstruction of a key stretch of M-46, including upgrades to utilities and roadway safety features.
Additional work includes ongoing improvements to the U.S. 127 corridor near Lansing, a bridge replacement project in Grand Rapids, and a redesign of the I-75/M-32 interchange in Gaylord into a diverging diamond configuration.
Tourist-heavy areas are also affected. In Grand Traverse County, construction on U.S. 31 is expected to cause delays ahead of the National Cherry Festival, though officials aim to complete portions of the work before peak travel dates.
State transportation officials emphasize that while the construction season may test drivers’ patience, the long-term benefits include smoother roads, improved safety and extended infrastructure lifespan. Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead, follow posted detours and remain alert in active work zones.
Originally reported by justin P. Hicks in M live.
