The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will begin rebuilding US-31 through Bear Lake as early as July 13, with the project planned to be substantially complete by Oct. 30. Throughout the summer and fall, residents and visitors will see construction crews moving steadily along US-31 between Maidens Road and Norconk Road. The road will remain open throughout the project, though drivers should plan for shifted lanes, brief delays and flagging operations to help everyone travel safely through the work zone.
Sidewalk and pedestrian improvements will also take place in several areas along the corridor. These improvements include replacing existing sidewalks throughout the corridor, installing sidewalk bump outs downtown to shorten pedestrian crossing distances and delineate parking, and placing new sidewalks on the west side of US-31 from Bear Lake Market to Potter Road and on the east side of US-31 from Cody Street to Hopkins Drive. During this work, pedestrians may experience occasional sidewalk closures or temporary detours. MDOT and the contractor will endeavor to maintain access to local businesses during normal operating hours and schedule any necessary closures during evenings or other lower-impact times.