Here’s Where MDOT is Pausing (And Picking Up) Construction This Fourth of July Weekend

If you’re hitting the road for the Fourth of July weekend, there’s some good news: the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is easing back on construction work to make travel a little smoother.

Starting at 3 p.m. today and running through 6 a.m. on Monday, MDOT will suspend work in many busy areas, making it easier for drivers to get to where they’re going. Here in West Michigan, a few key spots will still have active lane restrictions.But, not every project is pressing pause.

So, here’s a rundown of where you’ll see headaches and relief during your travels around West Michigan during the holiday weekend.

Where will there be construction changes during the fourth of july weekend in West Michigan?

The biggest headache is expected to be on I-96 in Ionia County, where traffic will be down to one lane between mile markers 62 and 71.

On Thursday morning through Saturday, eastbound drivers will be reduced to one lane, but starting Saturday morning, it’ll flip: westbound traffic will be reduced to one lane, while eastbound gets back to two.

Also on I-96, the Fruit Ridge Avenue bridge project will continue, but you’ll still get two lanes in each direction, with shifted traffic patterns.

South of Holland, watch for delays on I-196 at M-40, where lane closures have already been slowing things down.

US-131 between 76th and 100th streets will stay as-is, with two lanes open each way, but drivers should still expect slower speeds in that zone. Meanwhile, US-131 in Montcalm County will have lane closures between 22 Mile and Cannonsville Road all weekend long.

For local traffic here in Grand Rapids, Plainfield Avenue north of I-96 will be fully open, though cones will line the gutters while new concrete cures.

NEXT: Where you'll find Fireworks in West Michigan this Fourth of July ⬇️

In short? MDOT’s doing its best to help Michigan drivers enjoy a smoother ride to fireworks, family time, and fun, but a few key spots will still be under construction. Plan ahead, leave early, and pack some patience.