KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – Travelers in downtown Kalamazoo should be aware of a major street project that begins next week.
Phase two of the project involving W Michigan from W Main to Harrison is set to start Monday, July 17.
Cracks will be sealed on the street before a fog seal will be applied to protect the entire surface. Then it will be repainted with fewer vehicle lanes which city officials say will be the appropriate number for safe and efficient traffic flow downtown.
The reclaimed space will be used to add a parking-protected, two-way cycle track to the south side of the street from W Main Street to Pitcher Street, and a one-way bike lane from Pitcher Street to Harrison Street. This, city officials say will help prepare for Kalamazoo Avenue’s conversion to two-way (expected to start in 2024) by creating a new bike connection to the Kalamazoo River Valley Trail.
Preparation work will take place the week of July 17, which will include crack sealing and some work on signage, which in turn will require short lane closures in the immediate vicinity of the work areas.
Surface sealing is scheduled to start on Monday, July 24 and will happen in two phases.
The north half of the street will be sealed first. Once the seal is completed and dry, traffic will shift onto those lanes and the south half of the street will be sealed.
Pavement markings will be removed just before sealing and temporary markers will be installed. After sealing is complete, the lane markings will be repainted.
Drivers in this area are cautioned not to drive over any wet pavement and follow posted signage to keep sealant off their vehicles.
Michigan Avenue will remain open to traffic during this work, with lane closures as needed in work areas.
Details on all planned projects are available at www.kalamazoocity.org/projects.
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