(WXYZ) — Eastbound and westbound I-696 is anticipated to be open by Jan. 7, according to the Michigan Department of Transportation.
The $90 million project was announced in October 2017, and initially, it was supposed to be repaired in 2020, but the funding with the I-75 and I-696 modernization project was sped up.
Construction spanned from I-275 in Oakland County all the way to I-94 in Macomb County, covering 28 miles.
On Jan. 2, MDOT will begin working behind-the-scenes to get ready for the switch. They will block traffic coming off of I-75 to eastbound I-696. They will likely start closing ramps from Mound to Dequindre to move the current markings and put down new temporary markings. The markings are dependent on weather.
Starting January 2 after 3:00pm, all exit ramps between I-75 and I-94 will be open. Entrance ramps will begin opening from west to east. The 11 Mile Road ramp and ramps to EB I-696 will stay closed for a few more days.
Starting January 3-7, crews will begin preparing WB I-696 to return to normal traffic operations. Pavement markings will be replaced. Temporary traffic control devices will be removed. Double lane closures on EB and WB I-94 will be required as WB I-696 is reopened.
As of Jan. 7, I-696 will be back to normal for drivers. However, that doesn't meant the project is over. In the spring, they will have to place permanent markings.
The work done in Spring will not require a full closure.
