Road Construction and Closures in Washtenaw County Cause Traffic Chaos
Friday the 13th in Washtenaw County is proving to be a nightmare for commuters as road construction and closures create traffic chaos. Traveling across the Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti areas has become a daunting task with numerous projects causing disruptions. To help navigate through the chaos, here is a comprehensive list of road construction and closures in the county for Friday, Oct. 13, and the week ahead.
In Ann Arbor, Anderson Avenue is facing a full closure between Packard Street and Ferdon Drive until Friday, Oct. 27. This closure is due to utility lead installations for a new mixed-use building.
Earhart Road is closed to southbound traffic between Geddes Road and the U.S. 23 overpass until Friday, Nov. 10. The ongoing project involves repaving, the installation of three mini roundabouts, new sidewalk construction, bike lanes, and stormwater improvements.
Brooks Street and Mixtwood Road in the Water Hill neighborhood have also been affected by a five-month streets project. Brooks Street is closed to all through traffic between Miller Avenue and Sunset Road, while Mixtwood Road is closed between Brooks and Red Oak Road. The project, which includes the construction of a mini roundabout, new sidewalk, and replacement water mains, is set to be completed by Saturday, Nov. 4.
Washtenaw Avenue is experiencing single-lane closures in both directions from Palmer Drive to Geddes Avenue until Oct. 13, causing further traffic congestion.
Moore Street is temporarily closed between Pontiac Trail and Broadway Street until Friday, Oct. 20, to facilitate a city street and water main upgrade project.
During University of Michigan home football games, several street and lane closures are implemented. These closures will be in effect three hours before and during the games, so motorists should plan their routes accordingly.
In Pittsfield Township, a major project to widen Michigan Avenue and upgrade the U.S. 23 interchange is causing shoulder closures and lane closures on U.S. 23, south of Ann Arbor. Furthermore, a single lane of Michigan Avenue in both directions from Carpenter Road to Textile Road is closed until Wednesday, Nov. 15. The northbound U.S. 23 ramp to and from Michigan Avenue is also closed for the project until Friday, Dec. 8. Motorists should anticipate intermittent closures of southbound U.S. 23 at Michigan Avenue in 15-minute intervals from 9 p.m. on Oct. 13 to 5 a.m. on Oct. 14.
Other notable projects include road closures in Chelsea, Saline, Ypsilanti, York Township, and Ypsilanti Township. The Forest Avenue bridge in Ypsilanti is closed until mid to late November for rehabilitation work, while the Ypsilanti downtown area will experience closures on Sunday, Oct. 15, as Michigan Avenue is milled and repaved.
With ongoing road closures and construction projects throughout Washtenaw County, commuters are advised to plan their routes ahead of time, allow for extra travel time, and use alternative routes whenever possible. Additionally, staying updated with regular traffic announcements and following designated detour routes can help alleviate some of the traffic chaos.
The Washtenaw County Road Commission and relevant authorities are working diligently to complete these projects as efficiently as possible. However, it is important for drivers to remain patient and exercise caution while navigating through construction zones.
Drivers should remember to adhere to posted speed limits, pay attention to signage, and be mindful of construction workers and equipment. By following these guidelines and staying informed, motorists can navigate the road construction and closures in Washtenaw County with minimal inconvenience.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. The information provided is subject to change, and readers are advised to check for updates from local authorities regarding road closures and construction projects in Washtenaw County.
