KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – It’s said Michigan has two seasons, winter and road construction, but while one has been easier on drivers, the other has not.
After the two snow events in November and December, January had been virtually snow free until this weekend. But construction has made driving more challenging for the last two years and 2023 will also be busy for road crews.
The City of Kalamazoo has just approved a record 2023 budget for capital improvements.
Michigan Department of Transportation Regional Engineer Willard Thompson says state road funding will also reach a new peak in southwest Michigan this year, with over $300 million in road projects are planned in the region.
Kalamazoo County Road Commission Manager Joanne Johnson says they have a number of projects planned, with 75 miles of resurfacing and other projects totaling $19-million.
Thompson says work will begin this year on the overpass at U.S.-131 and KL Avenue. The Portage Road/I-94 interchange, which was to be completed by now, will take six more months.
Plans to add southbound ramps to the U.S. 131 business loop will also be completed this year, but funding for the actual project has not been committed.
Thompson and Johnson both say while funding is up, so are the costs for materials. Manpower shortages and inflation are also challenges.
Thompson says unless there is a renewal of the Governor’s commitment to road improvements, funding could drop dramatically in the next few years.
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