Highlights include:

• The project involves reconstructing US-31 from Stronach Road to M55, a total of 4.8 miles. Planned improvements include:
• Storm drainage replacement
• New curbs and gutters
• Sidewalks along the entire stretch
• Safety enhancements
• Municipal utility upgrades
• Conversion from a four-lane to a three-lane road (one lane in each direction with a center turn lane)

Project Timeline

• Construction is scheduled to begin in Spring 2027 and is expected to be fully completed by Fall 2028.
• 2027: Work will occur on the portion from Stronach Road to River Street.
• 2028: Work will occur on the portion from the US-31 bridge near River Street to the M-55 intersection, divided into two phases.
• Phase 1: The half closer to M-55
• Phase 2: The half closer to River Street

Access During Construction

• All businesses along US-31 will remain accessible to locals and visitors.
• US-31 traffic will temporarily operate as one-way; north-bound traffic remains on US-31, while south-bound traffic will be rerouted via an alternate route through Manistee.
• Signage will be provided to indicate that businesses remain open.
• A designated commercial detour will direct vehicles around Manistee Lake via Stronach.
• All side streets will remain open with access to US-31 throughout construction. Some side streets may close for a few days at a time, but overall access to US-31 will always be maintained.

Funding

• The project has $39.5 million already secured. Finalizing the bid and selecting a contractor will occur next year.