LANSING, Mich. (WZMQ) – Road construction projects are getting started around the state, and the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is issuing some reminders about safety while driving in work zones.
With just under two weeks until Memorial Day, AAA is predicting the busiest holiday weekend since 2019.
MDOT’s communications representative for the U.P. Dan Weingarten, said they expect a higher number of bikers and pedestrians around roadways as the weather improves, but that drivers need to be extra vigilant of the road crews that will be working on 19 different construction projects across the Upper Peninsula by the end of the month.
“This is definitely getting into the busy season for travel in the Upper Peninsula, both for people recreating and because there is now construction,” Weingarten said. “That’s the main thing we want to emphasize is, you know, there’s a lot of work going on, a lot of barrels out on the road.”
Weingarten explained that MDOT suspends as many lane closures as possible on busy weekends to speed up the flow of traffic, but some projects can’t make those accommodations.
One project that will be paused for July and August for the increased traffic is the U.S. 2 lane closures on the I-75 overpass in St. Ignace. Weingarten said the project caused major backups last summer that they are hoping to avoid by stopping work during the busiest months.
Weingarten also gave a reminder of Michigan’s new distracted driving law.
“Most crashes in work zones are caused by inattentive or distracted driving,” Weingarten said. “People need to get off their phone and pay attention, especially when they see those signs about a lane closure ahead or a detour ahead.”
Weingarten said that May through September tend to have the highest number of fatal crashes. Last year in Michigan, there were over 7,200 crashes in construction zones and 17 fatalities.
To reduce that number, the Michigan State Police is stressing the importance of obeying adjusted traffic regulations in work zones.
Lieutenant Mark Giannunzio said drivers need to pay extra attention in particular when crossing the Mackinaw bridge, where a resurfacing project has closed northbound lanes that may not reopen by this month’s holiday weekend.
“That bridge in itself is going to be quite interesting to travel over come Memorial Day weekend. right now, it’s probably taking 20 minutes to 1/2 hour to cross that bridge.” Lt. Giannunzio said. “we need to give them as much room as we possibly can when we’re traveling around, and we need to slow our speeds.”
Lt. Giannunzio said following the rules of the road is crucial when it’s busy. Giving reminders to stay in the right lane, avoid distracted driving, and follow changes in the speed limit helps keep other drivers and road crews safe.
To see what construction could impact your drive before heading out you can visit Michigan.gov/drive
https://www.michigan.gov/mdot/travel/safety/efforts/tzd
