July 22, 2024 

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Governor Whitmer Continues to Fix the Damn Roads with Projects Starting This Week in Three Counties  

LANSING, Mich. —  Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced that the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will begin road projects this week across three counties. These projects include resurfacing on I-196 in Allegan County, pavement sealing on M-553 in Marquette County, and concrete patching on I-75 in Oakland County, estimated to support 243 jobs.  

“Across Michigan, we are moving dirt and fixing the damn roads to drive economic activity, help Michiganders go to work, drop their kids off at school, and run errands safely,” said Governor Whitmer. “Through the end of this construction season, we will have fixed, repaired, or replaced nearly 23,000 lane miles of state-owned roads and 1,600 bridges since I took office, supporting 89,000 jobs without raising taxes by a dime. Let’s roll up our sleeves and keep getting things done.” 

I-196 Resurfacing in Allegan County 

MDOT is investing $3 million to resurface seven miles of I-196 from 118th Avenue to 71st Street in Ganges and Casco townships. The project includes full-depth concrete pavement repairs, joint replacement and resurfacing the I-196 interchange ramps at Blue Star Highway (Exit 30), 109th Avenue (Exit 26) and the Glenn Rest Area on northbound I-196 to increase safety, improve the ride quality and extend the service lives of the roadway and rest area. Based on economic modeling, this investment is expected to directly and indirectly support 36 jobs. 

“This investment will provide much-needed updates and repairs to improve the quality of our roads and ensure safer commutes for our drivers,” said state Representative Joey Andrews (St. Joseph). “The project will not only increase safety, but it will also support economic development in our community by creating new jobs.” 

M-553 Pavement Sealing in Marquette County 

MDOT is investing an estimated $2.1 million to resurface 13 miles of M-553 from M-35 north to County Road 480 in Marquette County. Work includes pavement sealing, edge trimming, hand patching, and pavement markings to increase safety for motorists and extend the lifespan of the roadway. Based on economic modeling, this investment is expected to directly and indirectly support 25 jobs.

“When we invest in our region’s infrastructure, we’re investing in the wellbeing of today, tomorrow and generations to come,” said state Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette). “I’m grateful for Gov. Whitmer’s continued focus on repairing our community’s roads. These local projects will create more jobs in Marquette County and increase the safety and longevity of M-553 for residents and tourists alike.” 

I-75 Concrete Patching in Oakland County 

MDOT is investing $15 million to rebuild I-75 BL (Square Lake Road) between M-1 (Woodward Avenue) and I-75. Beginning 9 a.m. Monday, July 22, the southbound I-75 ramp to westbound I-75 Business Loop (BL) (Square Lake Road) will be closed for approximately 10 days for concrete patching to improve the safety of the roads. Based on economic modeling, this investment is expected to directly and indirectly support 182 jobs. 

"MDOT's rebuild of Square Lake Road between Woodward and I-75 is a significant investment in our district. This $15 million project will deliver a smoother, safer roadway while supporting a major corridor for our local economy," said Senator Jeremy Moss (D-Southfield). "These improvements will increase accessibility between communities, promote economic growth, and greatly improve the daily driving experience for our residents. It’s a huge win for Oakland County."  

“Those of us who drive on Square Lake Road between Woodward Avenue and I-75 know just how badly these repairs are needed,” said state Representative Sharon MacDonell (D-Troy). “That is why I’m happy to see that MDOT is investing so much in rebuilding this section of the road. Not only will these repairs improve safety of the roads, but they will also provide nearly 200 jobs for the area. This is a win-win for our community.” 

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