The Michigan Department of Transportation announced on April 13 that it will begin work to rebuild the southbound US-131 shoulder one mile north of M-222 near Martin, starting April 20. The project is expected to cost about $2 million and is scheduled for completion by late July.
The project matters because it aims to increase safety and extend the service life of this section of roadway, which serves as a key route in Allegan County. According to MDOT, lane closures and traffic shifts will be in effect throughout the construction period.
Work will include shoulder reconstruction, installation of a new retaining wall, and a new guardrail. MDOT said that based on economic modeling, this investment is expected to directly and indirectly support 17 jobs.
The Michigan Department of Transportation manages nearly 10,000 miles of state highways, more than 4,800 bridges, over 2,700 miles of non-motorized trails, hundreds of miles of railroad track and various airports according to the official website. The department has more than 2,800 employees statewide and oversees seven regions with numerous service centers and facilities according to the official website.
MDOT’s mission focuses on serving people and communities while supporting the economy through transportation efforts according to the official website. Its leadership team includes a director along with chief administrative and operations officers according to the official website.
Across Michigan’s extensive highway system—covering almost 9,700 miles—MDOT maintains not only highways but also bridges, rail services, public transit programs, aviation initiatives as well as non-motorized trails while ensuring safety standards are met according to the official website.
