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The Michigan Department of Transportation has announced a major step forward in its ongoing effort to modernize one of the state’s critical transportation corridors. The $146 million I-96 Flex Route project, which aims to transform a 12-mile stretch of interstate between Kent Lake Road and I-275, will enter a new phase of construction this weekend with significant traffic pattern changes.

Beginning Saturday, motorists will experience a substantial shift as all traffic is moved to the eastbound side of I-96. This reconfiguration will maintain two lanes of traffic in each direction throughout the construction zone while crews focus on vital improvements to the westbound lanes.

The traffic shift marks an important milestone in the ambitious project that began in March of last year. According to MDOT officials, the initiative represents a comprehensive approach to addressing congestion and improving safety along one of southeast Michigan’s busiest commuter routes.

“This project is about more than just adding lanes – it’s about implementing smart infrastructure that can adapt to changing traffic conditions,” said James Wilson, MDOT’s regional transportation manager. “The flex route system will allow us to manage traffic flow more efficiently during peak hours and emergency situations.”

The flex route technology being installed is designed to dynamically manage traffic by opening the median shoulder lane during periods of heavy congestion. Electronic messaging signs mounted above the roadway will indicate which lanes are open and display real-time information about road conditions, accidents, and advised speeds.

For residents of Oakland and Livingston counties who rely on I-96 for daily commutes, the construction has meant adjusting to slower travel times and occasional detours. Local businesses along the corridor have reported mixed impacts, with some experiencing decreased customer traffic while others, particularly those catering to construction crews, seeing increased activity.

“We’ve definitely had to be more flexible with our delivery schedules,” said Sarah Johnson, operations manager at Novi Logistics, a transportation company with facilities near the construction zone. “But we understand the long-term benefits will outweigh the temporary inconvenience.”

The project includes not only the flex route implementation but also significant infrastructure upgrades. Crews will rebuild five bridges, repair 21 others, and make extensive drainage improvements throughout the corridor. The work also encompasses ramp modifications at major interchanges to improve traffic flow and safety.

MDOT officials emphasize that the project addresses growing traffic demands in western Oakland County, where residential and commercial development has outpaced road capacity in recent years. Traffic studies indicate the corridor regularly experiences congestion that extends travel times by 20-30 minutes during rush hours.

Local officials from communities along the I-96 corridor have expressed support for the project, citing the economic benefits of improved transportation infrastructure.

“Reliable transportation is fundamental to our regional economy,” said Robert Chen, Wixom City Council member. “This investment will help attract businesses and ensure our residents can commute efficiently throughout the metro area.”

Environmental considerations have also been incorporated into the project design. New drainage systems will better manage stormwater runoff, while landscaping plans include native plantings to reduce maintenance requirements and support local ecosystems.

Weather permitting, the current phase of construction is expected to continue through fall 2024. MDOT has established a project website and social media channels to provide regular updates to commuters and area residents.

Motorists are advised to plan for longer travel times, especially during morning and evening rush hours. MDOT recommends allowing at least an extra 20 minutes for trips through the construction zone and considering alternative routes when possible.

The I-96 Flex Route represents part of a broader trend in highway management, with similar systems already successfully implemented on US-23 north of Ann Arbor and I-96 in western Michigan. Transportation experts suggest these active traffic management systems may become standard features on major highways as states look for cost-effective ways to address congestion without traditional lane widening.

When completed, the I-96 corridor is expected to see improved travel times, reduced crash rates, and better emergency response capabilities—benefits that MDOT officials say will serve the region for decades to come.