Smooth Roads, Brighter Lighting Greet Commuters Along Newly Reopened I-96
LIVONIA (WWJ/AP) - It's back to business as usual along a stretch of Interstate 96 in suburban Detroit.
The Michigan Department of Transportation said that a months-long rebuilding project concluded two weeks ahead of schedule between Telegraph and Newburgh roads.
"So happy that I-96 is opening back up so that Grand River and I-94 and M-5 can finally get some relief - thanks guys for finishing it early," said a man from the Detroit metro area.
So far, so good. That's the response from WWJ listeners who have already checked out the Jeffries Freeway:
"It's great, open three weeks ahead of schedule, way to go DOT!" announced one impressed driver about the reopening of the freeway.
"It's wider, it's cleaner and the LED lights are just gorgeous," raved one woman.
"It's really cool, the shoulders are wider - the new LED lights are brilliant," another listener told WWJ.
"The state of Michigan did a fine job with the contractor and it's great to hear the news from WWJ," said another caller to WWJ.
A seven-mile stretch of I-96 in Livonia and Wayne County's Redford Township was shut in April. The $148 million project to rebuild the roadway includes bridge repair and replacement work.
The Michigan Department of Transportation said commuters would be able to use I-96 during their Monday morning drive to work.
Gov. Rick Snyder said in a statement Sunday that the rebuilding of the expressway addressed "infrastructure needs that were critical" to Michigan's future and its economic recovery.
The department marked the project's completion by opening a stretch of the roadway to pedestrians Sunday afternoon. [PHOTOS]
We'd like to hear from you if you've driven on the Jeffries. Call the WWJ Listener Comment Line at 248-327-2949. Share your thoughts, comments and observations.
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