A major commuter route shuts down for roadwork

Northbound traffic on South Westnedge Avenue in Portage will be closed starting Monday, July 6, for a five-week reconstruction project. The closure runs from Melody Avenue to Centre Avenue, one of the busiest corridors in the city.

The City of Portage announced the detour on its official website. Milling and paving operations are scheduled to begin later in the week, according to the city.

"South Westnedge Avenue Northbound Detour: Melody Avenue to Centre Avenue. Starting at 8 AM, Monday, July 6, 2026, the northbound lane on South Westnedge Avenue from Melody Avenue to Centre Avenue will be closed for road construction."

— City of Portage newsflash, posted July 2, 2026

The detour route

Northbound drivers must follow a new route during the closure. Traffic will be rerouted via Shaver Road and West Centre Avenue, according to the city's detour map.

The closure is expected to last until Saturday, August 8, weather and materials permitting, per the City of Portage.

Southbound traffic faces a construction zone

Southbound drivers on Westnedge Avenue are already navigating an active construction zone. The city posted a notice that traffic from Velvet Avenue to Centre Avenue must travel through a 25-mph construction speed limit area.

"Drivers are reminded that South Westnedge Avenue from Velvet Avenue to Centre Avenue is an active construction zone and to drive with caution at the construction speed limit of 25 mph."

— City of Portage, Department of Transportation & Utilities

What this means for Portage residents

Westnedge Avenue is a primary north-south artery through Portage. It connects downtown Kalamazoo to northern neighborhoods and serves as a daily commute route for thousands of residents.

The closure comes as part of the ongoing South Westnedge Avenue reconstruction project, which began with lane closures in June. The city first announced earlier construction shifts on Monday, June 8, according to local reporting.

For questions about the project, the City of Portage Department of Transportation & Utilities can be reached at (269) 329-4422. Office hours are Monday through Thursday from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM and Friday from 8 AM to 12 PM.

Timeline

  • June 8, 2026 — Earlier lane closures begin on South Westnedge Avenue as part of the reconstruction project
  • July 6, 2026 — Northbound closure from Melody Avenue to Centre Avenue begins at 8 AM
  • August 8, 2026 — Expected reopening date, weather and materials permitting