Lake Michigan Drive, also known as M-45, is a crucial transportation route for lakes touring enthusiasts and residents in the Grand Rapids, Michigan area. This blog post will provide you with the latest updates and details on the ongoing construction projects along this scenic drive, helping you plan your lake tours and activities effectively.
Current Status and Expected Completion Dates
Resurfacing Project
A $3.8 million road project is underway to resurface about six miles of Lake Michigan Drive. The project started in July 2023 and is expected to cause daily lane closures until its completion.
Kinney Avenue Reconstruction
Kinney Avenue between Lake Michigan Drive and Leonard Street will undergo reconstruction in 2024. The project aims to widen the roadway, add a center turn lane, and install storm sewers. The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2024.
Fruit Ridge Avenue Rebuild
The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) plans to rebuild and widen Fruit Ridge Avenue from 3 Mile Road to Northridge Drive in 2025. This project will also include replacing and redesigning the Fruit Ridge Avenue bridge over I-96 in Walker.
Affected Routes and Counties
Lake Michigan Drive (M-45)
The resurfacing project is affecting approximately six miles of Lake Michigan Drive, causing daily lane closures that may impact your lake touring plans.
Kinney Avenue
The reconstruction of Kinney Avenue between Lake Michigan Drive and Leonard Street will affect local traffic and residents in the area.
Fruit Ridge Avenue
The rebuild and widening of Fruit Ridge Avenue from 3 Mile Road to Northridge Drive, including the bridge replacement over I-96 in Walker, may also impact your lake touring routes.
Additional Projects and Upgrades
Standale Downtown Development Authority (DDA)
The Standale DDA is upgrading street lighting in the Standale Business District, including removing and replacing lights along Lake Michigan Drive (M-45).
New Veterinary Clinic and Headquarters
The Community Spay Neuter Initiative Partnership (CSNIP) is constructing a 12,000-square-foot veterinary clinic and headquarters in Walker, located near Lake Michigan Drive.
Resources and Updates
Mi Drive Construction List
The Mi Drive Construction List website provides up-to-date information on traffic cameras, speeds, incidents, and construction projects, including those along Lake Michigan Drive.
City of Walker Civic Alerts
The City of Walker’s Civic Alerts page offers updates on local projects, such as the Kinney Avenue reconstruction and other roadwork in the area.
By staying informed about the ongoing construction projects and utilizing the available resources, you can plan your lake tours and activities along Lake Michigan Drive more effectively, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for lakes touring enthusiasts.
References
- https://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/2023/07/resurfacing-project-on-lake-michigan-drive-will-cause-daily-lane-closures.html
- https://www.walkermi.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx
- https://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/2024/03/whats-being-built-near-lake-michigan-drive-it-has-a-lube-pit.html
- https://mdotjboss.state.mi.us/MiDrive/construction
- https://www.walker.city/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=145