Locals Frustrated Over Extended Construction Project on Merriman Road
Residents of Garden City and Westland, cities flanking a stretch of Merriman Road, are expressing frustration over a construction project that has been ongoing for nearly two years. Traffic has been considerably disrupted, and local businesses report significant hardship due to the prolonged construction.
One such business, HandyMart, is run by manager Jeff Kassab. He has voiced deep concern over the dwindling number of customers coming into his store ever since construction began in January 2023. Kassab stated, “Let’s get it done.” He further revealed, “We had to cut the payroll, let go of employees, and put in a few more hours ourselves.”
The reason behind Merriman Road’s long closure is a construction project involving two bridge replacements—one over the Rouge River and the other over Hines Drive. The project was initially estimated to wrap up by fall 2023. However, much to the dismay of local residents, this hasn’t happened.
Nan Frye, a resident of Garden City, spoke out about the toll this extended construction has had on her, admitting, “Gas-wise, it cost me more because just to get, I have to go down to either Middlebelt Road to circle around to get back on Merriman.” Like many others, Frye is demanding information on what’s causing the delay and when they can expect the road to reopen.
Upon making inquiries from county officials, it was revealed that difficulties arose due to a nearby sanitary line running parallel to Merriman Road. An abandoned wastage treatment system near the construction site has been a major concern, delaying the project further.
The county’s Department of Public Services has indicated that the completion of the construction project may be pushed to the end of 2024, subject to weather conditions. We promise to keep you updated as construction continues and more developments unfold.
