WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Michigan Department of Transportation’s Nick Schirripa said the second phase of work on U.S. 131 will take place exclusively in Kalamazoo County and impact traffic flow in and around the village of Schoolcraft, as well as at a key intersection further north at Shaver Road.
The seven-month project is expected to start April 15.
The first phase of the $51 million rehabilitation last year stretched from the Rocky River bridge just outside Three Rivers north to XY Avenue in Schoolcraft Township.
The segment to be upgraded this year represents about one-third of the overall 13.4-mile project.
Schirripa said there will be a two-week, full closure of U.S. 131 at the Grand Trunk Western Railroad crossing at the south end of Schoolcraft. Meanwhile, repaving will continue from XY Avenue to Schoolcraft village limits, resuming from north of the village limits up to Shaver Road.
Schirripa said it’s his understanding left-turn lanes will be added for southbound and northbound traffic on U.S. 131 wishing to turn east or west onto Lyons Street.
Regarding the Shaver Road intersection, Schirripa said westbound Shaver Road motorists wishing to go south onto U.S. 131 will do so with the benefit of a so-called Michigan left after turning north onto U.S. 131.
General contractor is Michigan Paving and Materials out of Kalamazoo.
