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US-131 Flex Route - Kent County

US-131 Flex Route - Kent County

About this project

In 2027 and 2028, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is building a new flex route and improving bridges on northbound and southbound US-131 between I-96 and Post Drive in Kent County. A flex route uses a lane control system that includes signs, vehicle detectors and electronic message boards to let drivers know when the extra flex route shoulder, or flex lane, is available for use during peak travel periods.

Project improvements include:

  • Shoulder widening and improvements on northbound and southbound US-131.
  • Bridge rehabilitation and widening.
  • Emergency pull-off sites on US-131.
  • Incident management.

Check Mi Drive for current lane closures

Know before you go!

Project details

Review the US-131 Flex Route Noise Report.
Spring 2027 ToFall 2028

Schedule

In 2027:

  • Construct a new flex lane on northbound US-131 from I-96 to Post Drive. 
  • Replace the bridge deck of northbound US-131 over West River Drive. 
  • Bridge improvements on northbound US-131 over 6 Mile Road with deck patching, new expansion joints, concrete beam repairs, and substructure repair.   

In 2028:

  • Construct a new flex lane on southbound US-131 from Post Drive to I-96. 
  • Replace the bridge deck of southbound US-131 over West River Drive.
  • Widen the southbound US-131 bridge over 6 Mile Road.

Location

Kent County

Cost

$59 million

Benefits

  • Increased safety
  • Reduced crashes
  • Improved traffic flow
  • Extended service life of the bridges

Flex route information

Understanding flex routes

Signs with two yellow lights will be placed along the corridor. Flashing yellow lights indicate the flex lane is open; it is closed when the lights are off. The flex route will be open only when it is safe and necessary. Driving in the flex lane while closed is unlawful.

A flex route designed sign with yellow lights and information that reads, "Travel on shoulder allowed when flashing. Emergency stopping only other times."

The flex lanes will open during peak traffic hours and can be opened at other times when traffic conditions warrant. Flex routes are monitored 24/7 by MDOT's transportation operations centers using traffic sensors, vehicle detectors, video feeds, traffic cameras and shared resources with the Michigan State Police (MSP) and other public safety responders.

A flex route sign with the beacon turned on and flashing, so the lane is available for use. Flashing lights on the sign indicate the shoulder, or flex lane, is open to traffic.
A flex route sign with the beacon turned off, so the lane are not available for use. When lights are off, the flex lane is closed and reverts to a normal freeway shoulder.

Stay connected

Media questions? Contact John Richard, Media Representative, at 616-262-1565.

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  • Project questions?

    Grand Rapids TSC, 616-464-1800

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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

  • Will the flex lane be open to all vehicles?

  • How will I know when the lane is open?

  • Why not add a permanent third lane?

  • Is the speed limit different in the flex lane than the general purpose lane?

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)More FAQs