BATTLE CREEK, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Three construction projects are set to begin in Battle Creek this week, with two projects already begun as of Monday.
The first project is a major road resurfacing project by the Michigan Department of Transportation. This $1.4 million project will resurface almost 8 miles of I-194 from I-94 to Hamblin Avenue, with the goal being to extend the life of the roadway and improve ride quality for motorists.
This process will involve nighttime and weekend work and is expected to finish in July.
As a result, several traffic restrictions will be implemented during the project length. They can be viewed in full below:
- There will be single-lane closures in each direction of I-194, and some ramp closures at the Dickman Road and Columbia Avenue interchanges.
- Dickman Road will be detoured on Main Street and Hamlin Avenue.
- The southbound exit ramp to Columbia Avenue will be detoured on southbound I-194 to the indirect left-turn lane (Michigan Left) south of Beckley Road, then north to Columbia Avenue.
- The Columbia Avenue ramp to southbound I-194 will be detoured on northbound I-194 to westbound Dickman Road, then southbound I-194 to Columbia Avenue.
- The northbound exit ramp to Columbia Avenue will be detoured on northbound I-194 to westbound Dickman Road, then southbound I-194 to Columbia Avenue.
- The Columbia Avenue ramp to northbound I-194 will be detoured on southbound I-194 to the indirect left-turn lane south of Beckley Road, then north on I-194.
A map of the project can be viewed at this link.
— Sanitary Sewer Work —
A routine inspection and cleaning of the city’s sanitary sewer system is also underway as of Monday. This project takes place on sections of Michigan Avenue East and Helmer Road.
Officials say Taplin Group, LLC will perform the work as part of the city’s routine televising and cleaning plan. “Televising” is inspecting the sanitary sewer lines using cameras. Cleaning takes place as needed.
The times and locations for the project can be viewed below:
- Monday, May 4 – Michigan Avenue East between Raymond Road and 9-1/2 Mile Road.
- Wednesday, May 6 – Helmer Road, between Upton Avenue and Lafayette Street.
For this project, work hours will be from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. All work will take place in public rights of way and in sanitary sewer easements.
Disruption to neighbors will be minimal, and streets will remain open to traffic. Officials add that there may be some temporary lane closures at some point.
This work is expected to be finished by Friday, May 15, weather permitting. Officials are asking drivers to maintain caution when in the area.
— Traffic Signal Replacement —
Beginning on Tuesday, May 5, Ranck Electric will begin the final phase of a traffic signal replacement project at the intersection of Capital Avenue and Michigan Avenue.
This project will also involve finishing sidewalk work, which will include the brick paving being replaced.
During this work, lane shifts are expected to allow room for equipment. This work is scheduled to be complete by Friday, May 8, weather permitting.
Additionally, pedestrians should be advised that the sidewalks at the intersection will be closed for the duration of this work. A detour will be provided for pedestrians.
Motorists should anticipate possible traffic delays and are advised to seek alternate routes.
