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Major Bridge Reconstruction Project in Livonia

Workers engaged in bridge reconstruction activities in Livonia as part of the major construction project

News Summary

Livonia is gearing up for a significant construction project that will replace two aging bridges on Old M-14 and Edward Hines Drive. The Michigan Department of Transportation has announced an investment of $21.5 million for this major infrastructure overhaul. Scheduled to begin on January 6, 2024, with road closures and detours in place, the project aims to not only enhance road safety but also improve traffic flow and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists. Completion is expected by late 2025, marking a positive change for the community’s infrastructure.

Exciting Changes Coming to Livonia: Major Bridge Construction Project Kicks Off Soon!

Attention, Livonia residents! Buckle up because some big changes are coming your way. A massive construction project is about to transform a well-trodden stretch of Old M-14 (also known as Ann Arbor Road) and Edward Hines Drive into a smoother and safer roadway for everyone. It’s all thanks to the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) who is hard at work on this much-anticipated upgrade.

What’s Happening?

First off, let’s talk about the heavy hitters of this project—a total of two bridges are set to be replaced. The first is the Old M-14 bridge that spans over the Middle Rouge River, standing tall since 1925! The second bridge on the list for replacement is the Edward Hines Drive bridge over Ann Arbor Road, which has been dutifully serving the area since 1948. Now, don’t let those years fool you; it’s time for a makeover!

How Much Will It Cost?

With all this work happening, you might be wondering about the budget. This major endeavor is estimated to cost a hefty $21.5 million. A large dose of money? You bet! But think of it as an investment in our community’s future. A smoother and safer commute benefits everyone!

What to Expect?

Now, here’s the juicy part—what exactly is going to change? This project isn’t just about replacing bridges; it also involves:

Rebuilding intersections for better traffic flow.
Updating traffic signals to enhance safety.
Repaving Ann Arbor Road between Newburgh Road and Market Street, giving it a fresh look and feel.
Improving drainage to ensure our roads can handle any downpour that comes our way.

Mark Your Calendars!

Ready for the important dates? Well, mark your calendars because starting at 6 a.m. on January 6, 2024, Ann Arbor Road will close between Newburgh Road and Market Street, which is located just west of Levan Road. Don’t worry, though; there are detour routes set up to help you navigate around the closures.

For those heading east on Ann Arbor Road, you will be redirected to northbound Newburgh Road before taking eastbound Plymouth Road. If your travels take you westbound, fear not! You will be rerouted via westbound Plymouth Road to southbound Newburgh Road before getting back to westbound Ann Arbor Road.

What’s Next for Edward Hines Drive?

Now, let’s talk about Edward Hines Drive. Starting in early spring 2024, that road will also be closed between Newburgh and Wayne Roads for even more bridge work. This bit of construction will bring about:

Demolishing and rebuilding the Edward Hines Drive bridge over Ann Arbor Road.
Building a brand-new shared-use path for pedestrians and cyclists.
Refreshing the pavement leading up to the bridge for better accessibility.

To keep things moving smoothly, there will be a temporary bridge for pedestrians that will allow continued access to the shared-use path during the construction phase. You won’t miss a beat!

Detour Routes for Edward Hines Drive

For those taking to Edward Hines Drive, here’s the scoop on the detours: eastbound traffic will be guided through northbound Newburgh Road, then eastbound Ann Arbor/Plymouth Road, followed by southeast Farmington Road and westbound Joy Road back to eastbound Edward Hines Drive. For the westbound travelers, it’s a similar plan with a little twist—navigate via eastbound Joy Road, then northbound Farmington Road, followed by westbound Ann Arbor/Plymouth Road and southeast Jughandle Road back home to westbound Edward Hines Drive.

Future Roadwork Coming Your Way

But wait, there’s more! Later in the year, more roadwork will kick off at two intersections at Ann Arbor Road—Newburgh and Plymouth Roads. Expect some rebuilding and updating of the traffic signals there as well.

When Will It Be Over?

Patience is a virtue, folks! The entire construction project is expected to wrap up by late 2025. Until then, let’s embrace the changes that will make our community safer and more efficient. Buckle up, Livonia; an upgraded journey is on the horizon!