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US-12 traffic shift at M-51 in Niles starts tomorrow

Fast facts:

  • US-12 traffic will be shifted to ramps and temporary crossovers at M-51 in Niles as the interchange rebuilding project continues.
  • The $27 million investment started last month, with the anticipated completion in October 2024.
  • This project will replace the existing US-12/M-51 interchange with a signalized, at-grade intersection with indirect left turns.

KALAMAZOO, Mich. ­-  As part of the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) project to rebuild the US-12/M-51 interchange in Niles, Berrien County, crews will shift US-12 traffic to new temporary ramps and crossovers Friday, Nov. 17, and crews will begin removing the existing US-12 pavement and earth embankments in preparation for the bridge removal, which is anticipated to happen in the spring.

During the traffic shift, US-12 will be down to one lane in each direction at M-51. Eastbound US-12 traffic will use temporary ramps and a newly placed traffic signal, while westbound US-12 traffic will use crossovers, temporary ramps, and a newly placed traffic signal.

Northbound and southbound M-51 will remain in the current alignment with short-term lane closures.

This $27 million investment includes removing the US-12 bridges and ramps at M-51 and replacing the interchange with a signalized, at-grade intersection and indirect left turns, or Michigan Lefts. The project includes repaving and rebuilding 1 mile of US-12 and 2.7 miles of M-51, concrete pavement repairs, sidewalk construction, new traffic signals, pavement markings, and new signs.

Based on economic modeling, this investment is expected to directly and indirectly support 383 jobs.

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