A significant road construction project is expected to begin in March that will affect access to NMC campuses and may cause delays for commuters. While construction will be closest to the Front Street campus and the Great Lakes campus, planners expect traffic throughout the region to be impacted.
Basics
MDOT is embarking on a significant reconstruction of a 2-mile section of US-31/M-37/M-72 (Grandview Parkway/Front Street) in Traverse City, spanning from the US-31/M-37/M-72 west junction (Division Street) to just east of Garfield Road.
Where and When
The project will be divided into two segments:
- Garfield Avenue to Front Street (near Railroad Avenue) – March to July 2024.
- Front Street to Division Street – July to November 2024.
Construction will begin on the eastern segment in March, with completion scheduled before the National Cherry Festival. Work on the western segment will begin after the festival.
Who Is Affected
This construction will impact businesses, drivers, cyclists, pedestrians, and anyone traveling along that section of road during the construction phase, as well as those along the proposed detour route.
Who Is Involved
- MDOT is leading the project, which has been in planning for several years.
- The City of TC is performing infrastructure upgrades to coincide with this project (water, wastewater)
- The Tart Trail Eastward expansion will also coincide with this project
What Is the Impact/Likely Impact
During the eastern segment construction starting in March 2024, westbound traffic will be detoured on Railroad Avenue and Eighth Street, while eastbound traffic will be detoured on Peninsula Drive, Eastern Avenue, and Milliken Drive. Northbound and southbound M-37/Garfield Avenue traffic will be detoured on Eastern Avenue, Milliken Drive, Fair Street, and Eighth Street.
During the western segment construction starting in July, there will be lane closures and traffic shifts for both directions of traffic.
Why Is It Happening
MDOT aims to implement operational enhancements at the intersections of Division Street, Hall Street, Front Street, and Peninsula Drive, as well as drainage improvements, Americans with Disabilities Act upgrades, repairs to the Murchie Bridge over the Boardman River, and installation of new signs and pavement markings. Additionally, MDOT plans to add pedestrian crossings at Peninsula Drive and Front Street, improve the pedestrian crossing at Division Street, and collaborate with TART and the city to extend the trail to the east and widen where possible.
If you have additional questions about this project please visit these resource pages:
We apologize for any inconvenience this construction may cause and encourage everyone to plan ahead, allow extra time for travel, and utilize alternative routes if possible. Your patience and understanding are greatly appreciated as we work through this important infrastructure improvement.