NEWBERRY, Mich. - The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is investing about $5 million to repair the second of two M-48 overpasses over I-75 in Chippewa County. Work includes deck overlays; deck, substructure and structural patching; railing replacement; expansion joint replacement; partial painting; beam end cutting; and approach work.
This project includes two separate structures repaired in two stages. Stage one was the M-48 overpass over I-75 connecting M-129 to Mackinac Trail, which was completed in 2024. Stage two is the M-48 overpass over I-75 near Rudyard. Work on the second structure is scheduled to begin in April and will require closing the bridge with detours similar to stage 1.
County:
Chippewa
Highways:
I-75
M-48
Closest communities:
Rudyard
Kinross
Stage two start date:
Monday, April 14, 2025
Overall estimated project end date:
Friday, Aug. 29, 2025
Traffic restrictions (stage two):
- I-75: Northbound and southbound I-75 will be reduced to one lane each, with a 60 mph speed limit (45 mph where workers present) and a 12-foot width restriction.
- M-48: Will be closed at I-75. Eastbound and westbound traffic will be detoured via Mackinac Trail and M-80.
Jobs numbers:
Based on economic modeling, this investment is expected to directly and indirectly support 48 jobs.
Safety benefit:
This work will extend the service life of the existing overpasses to maintain safe roadways for all users.
