A massive two-year reconstruction project on I-696 is set to begin on Saturday, March 1.
The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is completely rebuilding both sides of the freeway from Lahser Road to I-75 and repairing 60 bridges as part of the final phase of the Restore the Reuther project.
The full reconstruction of I-696 will take place in stages:
• 2025: Eastbound I-696 will be rebuilt, with traffic detoured onto southbound M-10 (Lodge Freeway), eastbound M-8 (Davison Highway), and northbound I-75 before reconnecting with I-696.
• 2026: Work will shift to the westbound side of the freeway, while traffic in the opposite direction will remain open.
• 2027: Additional improvements will be made between I-75 and Dequindre Road.
As part of the project, MDOT will repair 60 bridges, including a full rebuild of the Church Street Plaza bridge, which features Victoria Park. During construction, a walkway detour will be in place for pedestrians.
