Exciting Changes Ahead for Northville Township Roads!

Exciting Changes Ahead for Northville Township Roads!

NORTHVILLE TWP. — Big improvements are on the horizon for Five Mile Road, a stretch that has seen better days. Starting April 15, construction will kick off on the badly needed renovation between Beck and Ridge roads, and folks, this project is set to extend into 2024! Thanks to a generous $10 million state grant, the makeover will finally bring this road back to life.

What’s on the Agenda?

The plan includes a complete reconstruction and widening of the road, which means better, safer options for everyone who travels through the area. But that’s not all—there are also infrastructure upgrades lined up. Think curb and gutter installations, concrete and aggregate shoulder placements, underdrain installations, bioswale installations, and even ditch construction. It’s a full package aimed at making the driving experience much smoother and safer.

Prepare for Traffic Jams!

brace yourself for traffic congestion and some temporary detours throughout the construction period. They advise drivers to be smart and plan alternate routes to avoid getting stuck in the slow-moving traffic. On the bright side, access to all adjacent streets and entrances will be maintained throughout the project, so you won’t be completely cut off from your favorite spots.

A Glimpse into the Past

Interestingly, the stretch of Five Mile Road sits on territory that used to belong to the Detroit House of Corrections but is now part of the Michigan International Technology Center (MITC). This area is undergoing a collaborative redevelopment between Plymouth and Northville townships, so it’s not just about the roads; it’s about creating a vibrant community space!

Community Leaders Optimistic

Northville Township Supervisor, Mark J. Abbo, shared his excitement, saying, “We are glad to be a part of MITC, an exciting project that brings both jobs and an expanded tax base to the region.” He also expressed gratitude to Wayne County for helping in the development of solid roads and infrastructure, noting, “These improvements will really help our residents zip around the region.”

New Businesses on the Horizon

And guess what? There’s a lot of business buzz surrounding this area! Plymouth Township Supervisor, Kurt Heise, stated there are several exciting enterprises coming on board between Ridge and Five Mile, including NEL Hydrogen. This project alone is a whopping $400 million investment that’s predicted to create over 500 jobs in the region! On top of that, a Meijer store is also slated to open in the vicinity.

Heise expressed his appreciation to the county for pushing hard to secure the state grant, highlighting the collaborative efforts that make these improvements possible. “This project is crucial for the long-term success of the corridor,” he added, and it certainly seems like a step in the right direction for Northville Township.

What’s Next?

This first phase of the road reconstruction is set to begin at about 500 feet west of Ridge Road and will extend eastward to a point approximately 500 feet west of Beck Road. Along Ridge Road, work will extend from roughly 150 feet south of Five Mile Road up to the Johnson Drain bridge. Don’t worry; one lane will remain open for traffic in each direction as the construction unfolds, although expect some closures along Five Mile and Ridge roads at times.

Looking ahead, there’s talk of a second phase to reconstruct Five Mile even further, from Ridge Road to Napier Road. Although it’s already engineered, it still lacks funding. MITC planner Gary Roberts mentioned, “There’s lots of conversations and opportunities to get additional funding with the county’s help.” Fingers crossed he gets the green light by the 2025 construction season!

As this project unfolds over the coming months, the excitement and anticipation for improved roads—and new businesses—keep growing strong in Northville Township!

For more information, feel free to reach out and let your voice be heard as these changes take root!