(CBS-DETROIT) – If you are one of the 1.3 million Michigan residents are expected to take a road trip During Memorial Day weekend and planning to travel to Northern Michigan, be aware of expected delays for Mackinac Bridge traffic.
The first part of work on a two-season repaving project on the bridge’s north viaduct and approach trusses was supposed to be completed by May 23, but it will now be completed by June 27, according to the Mackinac Bridge Authority.
Zenith Tech, the contractor, says it will not be able to meet the original completion date due to increased patch work and the inability to deploy field crews.
“We have not only allowed, but strongly encouraged, the contractor to work around the clock and on weekends to complete this project before the traffic increase we expect for the holiday weekend,” said Cole, chief engineer of the Mackinac Bridge Authority (MBA). Cavalieri.
On March 25, crews began repaving the road and making deck and joint repairs to the northbound lanes. Due to the work, one lane will be open in each direction.
“We know that closing lanes on the bridge for Memorial Day travel will result in delays and backups, so we ask customers to be patient and consider crossing during non-peak hours,” Cavalieri said.
Officials say weekend traffic peaks between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., often causing backups. Drivers should prepare for the delays or avoid using the bridge during peak hours.
Vehicles wider than 3 meters can cross once a day from Monday to Thursday between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Traffic is blocked during these crossings.
Crews will be working on the southbound lanes in March 2025.
All work on this project is expected to be completed by May 22, 2025.
