Novi Residents, Heads Up: Traffic Alerts for Interstate 96!
Good morning, Novi! If you’re planning to hit the road today, you might want to grab a stiff cup of coffee and consider an alternate route. Starting this morning, both the eastbound and westbound lanes of I-96 will be closed at some point. Yes, you heard it right! A situation has unfolded that could make your morning drive a bit tricky.
What Happened?
As of now, the eastbound lane of I-96 near Beck Road is open, but just barely. A crash combined with a gravel spill has caused delays, and it’s not exactly smooth sailing. The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) released some important updates about the situation around 9:35 a.m. today, October 10. They mentioned that sometime this morning, the eastbound and westbound lanes would need to be closed altogether.
The reason for this closure is to safely remove an overhead sign that was knocked down by a contractor. Yep, you read that right! So, if you’re driving along this stretch of highway, brace yourself for some unexpected stops and potential detours.
Expect Road Closures
Now, we know nobody wants to hear about road closures, especially on a weekday morning. But MDOT estimates that the traffic block will begin sometime around 10 a.m. and last until approximately 2:30 p.m.. So if you can, give yourself some extra time or find another route altogether. This is a significant chunk of your day right in the middle, and nobody wants to get stuck in traffic!
Plan Your Route Wisely
For those who traverse this highway regularly, it may be worth exploring alternate paths. Think about taking M-5 or Grand River Avenue as alternate routes. It might be a little longer, but may save you from the hassle of dealing with delays and detours.
Moreover, if you have any errands or commitments, it could be a good idea to leave a bit earlier than planned, which allows you to navigate around held-up traffic without breaking a sweat. Remember, the rush-hour traffic often collides with construction and accidents, so every minute counts!
Stay Updated
Also, make sure to keep an ear out for any updates throughout the day. With unpredictable variables like weather and ongoing construction, changes can happen quickly. Local news and traffic applications may prove handy for real-time updates, and we advise staying informed before heading out the door.
In Conclusion
So, to all you locals in Novi, take a moment to pause, plan your trip, and keep an eye on those road conditions. Though we all love the thrill of adventure, it’s better enjoyed on planned routes rather than stuck in traffic with nowhere to go. While it’s unfortunate for our morning commute, we can only hope that the cleanup and repairs go smoothly!
Drive safe and smart, Novi! Before you know it, we’ll be back to smooth roads and clear skies!
