Hazel Park, Mich. – Commuters heading west on I-696 can now use the ramp to I-75 after a lengthy shutdown that began in February. The reopening, announced by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) on Monday, marks a key milestone in the $250 million Restore the Reuther initiative, which is reconstructing a 10‑mile segment of I-696 across Oakland County.
Project background
The Restore the Reuther project aims to replace aging infrastructure, add roughly 60 new bridges, and improve traffic flow on one of the region’s busiest corridors. MDOT officials say the work is essential for safety and long‑term reliability, especially as the corridor serves thousands of daily commuters and freight trucks.
What commuters can expect
MDOT’s Diane Cross explained that the ramp’s reopening required a series of final steps, including moving a barrier wall, adjusting signage, and repainting pavement markings. “It’s not a matter of just nine o’clock, boom, the ramps are open,” she said. “We needed most of the day to finish those details, but by the afternoon commute you should have the ramps open.”
Local driver Kelly Harrison welcomed the news, noting how the previous detours forced drivers into confusing routes. “That is amazing and I’m happy,” Harrison said. “Thank goodness because it’s directed traffic in so many crazy ways. Sometimes we just want to get from point A to point B, right? Not A, B, C, D, E, F. So it’ll be great – I’m so excited.”
Current traffic conditions
While the westbound ramp to I-75 is now open, MDOT still reports partial lane closures on I-696 itself. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday, three of the four lanes between Dequindre and John R are closed, leaving one lane open for traffic. The Dequindre ramp to westbound I-696 remains closed. Drivers are advised to stay alert for temporary signage and to allow extra travel time.
MDOT will continue monitoring the site throughout the day and expects to complete remaining work on the broader I-696 corridor in the coming weeks.
Why the project matters
Oakland County officials have highlighted the project’s role in supporting local families and businesses. By improving a major transportation artery, the state hopes to reduce commute times, lower vehicle emissions, and bolster economic activity throughout the region. The investment aligns with broader state goals of modernizing infrastructure while preserving the safety of Michigan’s motorists.
Commuters are encouraged to follow MDOT updates via the agency’s website or social media channels for any further changes to lane configurations or traffic patterns.
Original reporting: Warren | FOX 2 Detroit — read the source article.
