First responders prepare for challenges with US-131 project

Brittany Flowers
·2 min read
1

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — First responders in the area are preparing for major changes to traffic flow that begin this weekend.

Starting Sunday at 5 p.m., northbound US-131 will close at 28th Street for a month. This will impact thousands of drivers and potentially lead to more issues on surrounding roads.

‘A lot of traffic to detour’: US-131 to close for repairs

“Our deputy chief of operations has been meeting on a regular basis with (the Michigan Department of Transportation),” said Capt. Bill Smith with the Grand Rapids Fire Department. “The communications that we have between our divisions is really … that’s what will set us up for success.”

Lane closures will begin near 44th Street to prepare drivers to get off the freeway, but MDOT hopes to catch drivers as far south as Cutlerville so they have the option to take M-6 and travel east to I-96 or west to the Ford Freeway. Several ramp closures will also be in effect, including the ramps to northbound US-131 from 44th, 36th and 28th streets.

This will impact routes for fire crews as well. Smith says if absolutely necessary, fire engines will be able to access US-131, but in general, alternative routes will be in place. There’s a possibility this could impact response times.

“We do have benchmarks that we try to adhere to, but certainly anytime that we have congestion, traffic, weather, that does impact our response times,” Smith said.

That’s why he’s asking for help.

“We are asking our citizens to be mindful. Please be alert of your emergency vehicles that could be encroaching on you. Please leave room for them,” Smith said. “It’s very helpful when you are able to slow down, pull to the right and stop.”

Another common issue, he added, is distracted driving.

“Something like this where we have a lot of congestion, don’t be looking at your phones. Remember that’s a law now,” Smith said. “Be mindful of what’s coming up in front of you, what’s coming up behind you. Always have that good field of vision when you’re driving, a heads-up attitude, so we don’t cause any more issues than we need out there.”

Drivers are encouraged to use some sort of GPS on their phone, such as Google Maps, that gives real-time updates so drivers can find the fastest routes and avoid any backups. The Mi Drive Map also shows every work zone in the state.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.