$7 Million US-31/I-96 Bridge Project Continues Through Mid-November in Norton Shores
Drivers using the US-31/I-96 interchange in Norton Shores are facing construction-related lane restrictions and intermittent ramp closures as the Michigan Department of Transportation carries out a roughly $7 million bridge improvement project.
MDOT began the project April 6, 2026, at the interchange in Muskegon County. The agency estimates the work will continue through mid-November 2026, although the approved project announcement does not provide an August progress update or exact dates for individual ramp and overnight closures.
What the project includes
The work includes partial bridge-deck replacement, new expansion joints, substructure improvements and replacement of approaches. Crews also are resurfacing ramps and installing new bridge railing.
Lane closures are planned on US-31, I-96 and US-31 Business Route, also known as Seaway Drive. Intermittent ramp closures and several overnight total closures are part of the construction plan. The closures will affect people traveling through the interchange for local trips as well as regional travel.
MDOT has not said that all lanes or ramps will be closed continuously. Instead, the agency’s announcement describes a combination of lane restrictions, intermittent ramp closures and overnight full closures during different stages of the work.
Safety and economic effects
MDOT says the project is intended to improve ride quality and extend the service life of the bridge. The department estimates the investment will directly and indirectly support 59 jobs.
For commuters, commercial drivers and local businesses, the practical effect will be changing traffic patterns around one of the area’s major travel routes. Travelers using US-31, I-96 or Seaway Drive should allow for restrictions during construction, particularly when ramp or overnight closures are in effect.
The bridge project is separate from a broader regional wastewater modernization effort that also serves Norton Shores. WGVU News reported March 26 that Muskegon County received a $28 million state grant for wastewater-system modernization, part of a broader $64 million infrastructure project. That work is intended to support fruit processors, businesses and housing in the region; it is not identified as part of MDOT’s US-31/I-96 construction.
Next known milestone
MDOT’s stated target is an estimated completion in mid-November 2026. The agency’s March 31 announcement did not identify exact dates for each ramp closure or overnight total closure, and the available approved material does not establish whether the project is currently on schedule or on budget.
Sources
- Bridge improvements and resurfacing start April 6 at I-96/US-31 interchange in Muskegon County, Michigan Department of Transportation
- Muskegon County to replace wastewater system, supporting growth for fruit processors, business, housing, WGVU News
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