TAYLOR, Mich. – Drivers can expect closures on Telegraph Road over the next two years due to several bridges getting replaced or repaired in the Downriver area.
The state has dedicated more than $18 million to improve four bridges and replace two decaying bridges on Telegraph Road between the I-75 connector and Mercier Avenue in Taylor. The two bridges getting replaced are reportedly 100 years old and 50 years old, respectively.
The work will also include repairs to the US-24 connector that runs from I-75 to Eureka Road, according to the state.
Crews will focus their work on the northbound side of Telegraph Road for 2024, and the southbound side for 2025. The first closures for 2024 start this week -- here’s what to know.
Connector closes March 18
Starting Monday, March 18, the northbound US-24/I-75 connector was closing to traffic. The closure was expected to come after the morning rush hour on Monday.
The connector will remain closed through the “late fall,” the state said.
To get around the closure, drivers are encouraged to detour to northbound I-75, then to northbound Southfield Freeway 9M-39), then to westbound I-94 and back to northbound Telegraph Road.
Telegraph Road losing lanes in April
Part of northbound Telegraph Road will be reduced to one lane starting in early April, officials said -- though a specific date was not immediately clear.
Telegraph Road will only have one lane between Pennsylvania Road and north of Eureka Road. Crews will be replacing a bridge over the Frank and Poet Drain, the state said.
No specific detour has been designated for drivers. Officials are encouraging drivers to avoid the area altogether.
More work in 2025
The construction will continue into next year, affecting travel in the same areas.
In 2025, crews will work on southbound Telegraph Road near Eureka road and the southbound I-75 connector, officials said. Crews will once again be rebuilding and repairing bridges in the area.
It’s believed that construction will begin in 2025 when weather permits. Road work will likely break for the winter at the end of 2024, as most projects do in Michigan.