EB I-696 from Lodge Freeway to I-75 has officially closed for two years starting today. The closure, part of the Restore the Reuther project, has led to increased traffic on alternative routes.
While the official detour directs traffic south on M-10, east on M-8 (Davison Freeway), and north on I-75 before reconnecting to I-696, many drivers are opting for local mile roads such as Telegraph to 10 Mile, 11 Mile, and 12 Mile..
Video from multiple locations shows an influx of vehicles on both the detour route and surrounding roads during rush hour.
The closure is part of a long-term project that will see extensive roadwork on I-696 over the next several years. Westbound I-696 remains open during this phase, with major work planned for that side of the freeway in 2026.
