Drivers on Allegan Street in Otsego should plan for delays starting next week. The Michigan Department of Transportation announced a $2.3 million resurfacing project for 3.6 miles of M-89 that will run through mid-October.
What the project covers
MDOT will resurface M-89 from the Kalamazoo River to US-131 in the City of Otsego, according to a press release published Monday, June 1.
The work includes more than fresh asphalt. The project also calls for joint repairs, new concrete curb and gutter, and sidewalk improvements along the corridor.
When construction starts
- Start date: Monday, June 8, 2026
- Estimated end date: Mid-October 2026
- Expected jobs supported: 19, based on MDOT economic modeling
What drivers need to know
Lane closures and traffic shifts will be in effect throughout the project. Both directions of traffic will share one lane and alternate using temporary signals between the Kalamazoo River and Platt Street.
"This investment will increase the service life of M-89 and improve safety and ride quality," MDOT said in its release.
Allegan Street is a primary east-west route through Otsego. It connects the downtown area to US-131, one of the fastest routes between Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids.
Residents and commuters should expect slower travel times through the corridor during construction hours. MDOT did not specify daily work hours in its announcement.
Why it matters
Otsego residents have long called for improvements to Allegan Street. The roadway carries significant commuter traffic each day. Sidewalk upgrades are part of this project, which could improve pedestrian access along a corridor that has seen limited sidewalk investment in recent years.
The $2.3 million price tag comes from MDOT's state transportation budget. The project is listed under Allegan County for M-89, with Otsego identified as the closest community.
Construction crews will begin work just days after the announcement. Drivers should plan alternate routes or allow extra time for their commute starting June 8.