PORTAGE (WKZO AM/FM) — A major road construction project in Portage is coming to a halt due to a statewide labor dispute between a road workers union and a contractor’s organization.
The work on Westnedge Avenue between Romence Road and Mall Drive, which has been going on all summer, was supposed to be finished next Friday, but now it’s being delayed.
Portage city officials say the construction is hurting businesses and frustrating drivers.
Governor Rick Snyder has chimed in on the labor dispute between the the Operating Engineers local 324 and the Contractors Association, calling for a resolution.
The State has offered to mediate, but neither side has responded.
Snyder is reportedly consulting with the Attorney General’s office about going to court to force an end to the lockout.
Portage City Manager Larry Schaffer says they are exploring more than one potential scenario that would allow for the final completion of the project as expeditiously as possible.
