Earlier this year, the Michigan Department of Transportation started constructing what will be Michigan's first flex route. This new smart road traffic system will manage traffic congestion and promote safety on U.S. 23 just north of Ann Arbor, from M-14 to M-36 (9 Mile Road).
Orange barrels and directional signs were installed along the corridor, and crews are consistently meeting every deadline as the project has now hit its halfway point.
The new flex route is a network consisting of computerized overhead signs, cameras, and electronic message boards attached to overhead gantries that will work to enhance safety and constantly monitor the current traffic conditions—especially during critical morning and evening peak travel periods. Overhead electronic signs will advise drivers regarding whether lanes are open or closed, and alert them as to any incidents ahead.
Motorists driving along this stretch of U.S. 23 would see the multitude of road improvements, the newly constructed 18-ft-high gantries, the new and/or wider bridges, new ramps, and several roundabouts that all have been added along the corridor and its entrances/exits.
Some improvements, however, are not quite so obvious. Slopes along the roadway have been seeded with grass to minimize soil erosion, and sediment basins have been improved to control water runoff. Concrete barrier walls and guardrails are being installed in the median to separate the northbound and southbound traffic.
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Story & image source: Michigan DOT
