Major Infrastructure Work Begins at Busy Highway Intersection

*KALAMAZOO, Mich.* — A major road improvement project is underway on one of Southwest Michigan's busiest highway intersections, but officials warn that drivers should expect significant congestion and delays throughout the summer months.

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and Allegan County contractor Milbocker & Sons have begun construction on a $13.4 million interchange improvement project between I-94 and US-131, with work scheduled to continue through September 2026.

"Lane and ramp closures on US-131 and I-94, that's going to cause a headache for folks over the summer," said MDOT Spokesperson Nick Schrippa. "But we're going to get in and get it done and get out as quickly as we can."

The project aims to add an auxiliary lane to help drivers transition safely between westbound I-94 and northbound US-131, reducing dangerous merging situations at this high-traffic corridor.

What's an Auxiliary Lane and Why It Matters

An auxiliary lane serves as a connecting ramp between two exits, providing motorists with additional distance to accelerate, decelerate, or adjust their speed before encountering through traffic. The addition is not creating a third freeway lane on northbound US-131—it's a one-lane connector that spans the distance between the I-94 exit and Stadium Drive exit.

"It is not a traffic lane, it doesn't continue on, it doesn't make northbound US-131 a true three lane freeway there, just in the northbound side, it is one lane that essentially connects two exits," Schrippa explained.

The auxiliary lane will help alleviate congestion by allowing drivers to weave safely between exits rather than forcing sudden merges into high-speed through traffic.

Construction Will Include Ramp Widening and Closures

To accommodate the new auxiliary lane, MDOT will also be widening the westbound I-94 ramp that leads to northbound US-131. This work requires closing portions of existing lanes and ramps during construction phases.

"We're going to ask you to bear with us for those couple weeks while we get through it," Schrippa said. "But by the end of the project, by the time school starts again in the fall, we should be done."

While the goal is completion by fall, drivers should anticipate intermittent closures and detours throughout the summer as crews work on ramps, lanes, and the interchange infrastructure.

Related Construction Projects in the Area

The I-94/US-131 project is part of a broader wave of infrastructure improvements happening across Southwest Michigan this year. Other notable construction includes:

  • 25 1/2 Mile Road bridge replacement in Albion Township, closing the bridge over the Kalamazoo River beginning April 6 with detours via M-99 through July
  • L Drive South bridge work in Albion Township, which will see intermittent lane closures after the 25 1/2 Mile Road project is completed
  • M-96 construction for the Marshall Modernization Project, which will close a bridge through August

Impact on Commuters

The construction will affect daily commuters, delivery services, and anyone traveling between Kalamazoo County and surrounding areas. The signed detour routes will help manage traffic flow, but motorists should plan for delays and allow extra travel time.

The Calhoun County Road Department has urged residents to be patient as improvements are made to local infrastructure, emphasizing that these projects will ultimately enhance road safety and reduce long-term maintenance needs.

Project Timeline

  • Construction start: March 2, 2026
  • Expected completion: September 2026
  • Peak impact period: Summer months through fall
  • Detour route: M-99 for 25 1/2 Mile Road bridge replacement