MACOMB (WWJ) - Ready or not -- those orange construction barrels are returning to I-696.
On Monday, April 15, Michigan Department of Transportation crews will resume working on the major I-696 construction project in Macomb County -- starting with lane closures on the freeway and service drives.
Westbound I-696 from I-94 to Dequindre Road will have the left lane closed during weekdays with additional lane closures during overnights and weekends. Eastbound I-696 from Dequindre Road to I-94 will have a variety of multiple lane closures throughout the route with traffic shifting depending on the work. These lane closures will change frequently. Some lane closures also will cause short-term ramp closures. MDOT says every effort will be made to keep as many lanes open during morning and afternoon drive time. Eastbound and westbound I-696 service drives will also have intermittent single lane closures between Couzens Avenue and I-94. There will be complete closures at various locations to allow for paving and concrete curing. The closures will be announced ahead of time with posted detours.
MDOT says the project is expected to be finished by late August. The long-term repair project on I-696 between Dequindre Road and I-94 in Macomb County includes restoring the crossover locations, repairing barrier walls, freeway lighting, sewer work, joint sealing, installing asphalt shoulders, and finishing diamond grinding. Work also will be performed on the I-696 service drives to repair the concrete surface and replace curb and sidewalks.