News Summary
A significant construction project is set to resume along US-131 in Kent County, enhancing a busy stretch between Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo. Starting April 14, 2025, this $70 million initiative aims to improve driving conditions with new merge lanes and better ramp connections. Traffic control measures will ensure two lanes remain open throughout the project, which is expected to create nearly 994 jobs and enhance the local economy. The improvements are projected to be completed by late November 2025.
Exciting Changes Coming to US-131 in Kent County!
Hey there, Kent County! Get ready for some big changes along the busy stretch of US-131 between Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo, as a major construction project is set to kick back into high gear this summer. That’s right! Starting on April 14, 2025, work will resume on the reconstruction project, which first started on May 6, 2024. And you won’t want to miss all the improvements that are on the way!
A Look at the Plan
This project is no small feat and comes with a hefty price tag of $70 million. Thankfully, funding for this important initiative has primarily come from the Rebuilding Michigan program, which is all about enhancing highways and bridges that play a vital role in Michigan’s economy.
So, what exactly can you expect? Well, for starters, the project focuses on the section of US-131 stretching from 76th Street to 100th Street in Byron Township. One of the most exciting parts of the plan is the addition of new weave/merge lanes, which aim to create safer and more efficient driving conditions!
What’s New on the Road?
To make things easier for drivers, several new lanes and ramps will be constructed as part of the project. The 76th Street on-ramp will be extended to connect better with the 84th Street off-ramp on southbound US-131. At the same time, the 84th Street on-ramp will also see an extension, allowing seamless movement onto northbound US-131.
And here’s the best part: all of this is expected to be completed by late November 2025. So, mark your calendars! After all this work is complete, you’ll notice a significantly better ride quality and extended service life on US-131, which is bound to make your daily commutes much more pleasant.
Traffic Control and Safety Measures
Of course, with construction comes some traffic disruptions. But don’t worry—traffic control measures have already been set up to keep things flowing as smoothly as possible during the 2025 construction season! The plan is to maintain two lanes open in both directions for drivers throughout the project.
Expect to see some traffic rerouted, especially on northbound US-131, where vehicles will temporarily cross over to the southbound side near 100th Street. While some lane closures and ramp adjustments will happen, these are necessary to get the job done safely and efficiently.
Jobs and Economic Benefits
And there’s more good news! This project is expected to support nearly 994 jobs both directly and indirectly. That’s quite the boost for the local economy! As the construction progresses, you can feel confident knowing this project is not just about improving the road—it’s also about enhancing job opportunities in our community.
Final Thoughts
As you gather your travel plans for the summer and beyond, keep in mind the exciting changes to US-131. This project is a significant investment in our infrastructure and will help make our daily drives safer and more enjoyable. So buckle up, Kent County! The future is looking bright on US-131. Safe travels!
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Additional Resources
- MLive: Road Work on US-131
- Wikipedia: US 131
- Fox 17: What’s New in Road Construction
- Google Search: US-131 construction
- MLive: Road Closures Across Michigan
- Google Scholar: Michigan road construction
- MLive: Major West Michigan Road Projects
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Michigan road projects
- Fox 17: Orange Barrel Season Intensifies
- Google News: Kent County road construction
