MDOT Closed Westbound I-96 Lanes in Detroit

The Michigan Department of Transportation has closed stretches of I-96 for urgent bridge work through October 4.

Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Car Types

MDOT Closed Westbound I-96 Lanes in Detroit

Live Poll

Do you feel your local government provides sufficient notice regarding freeway construction and detours?

The Michigan Department of Transportation has initiated a series of closures on westbound I-96 in Detroit to facilitate critical infrastructure maintenance. Drivers are facing significant traffic disruptions while the project proceeds.

Why it matters

These closures are essential to allow for the scheduled demolition of the Fullerton bridge and ongoing maintenance on the Hubbell bridge. The work aims to address aging infrastructure but requires full lane shutdowns.

The closures impact westbound I-96 express lanes from M-8 to M-39 and local lanes from M-8 to Greenfield. Motorists should anticipate added commute times of 10 to 15 minutes.

The players

Michigan Department of Transportation

This state agency is responsible for the design, construction, and maintenance of Michigan's state highway system.

The details

The project involves the closure of the westbound M-8/Davison ramp to both the I-96 express and local lanes, along with the Schaefer/Grand River ramp. Motorists are directed to navigate through local roads or bypass the closed sections to reach their destinations.

Westbound I-96 express lanes and the M-8 ramp closed from Sept 25, 7 p.m. to Sept 26, 5 p.m.
Westbound I-96 local lanes and ramps closed from Sept 26, 5 p.m. to Oct 4, 5 a.m.

Trucks
Sept. 25
Truck and Street Sweeper Crashed on I-96 in Detroit
Oil and Gas
Sept. 20
Detroit Gas Prices Have Risen Toward Record Highs
Auto Parts
Sept. 21
Detroit Requested Bus Parts Contract Increase

Roadmap

These closures reflect a broader industry trend of prioritizing aging bridge infrastructure to ensure long-term roadway safety. This project aligns with standard state efforts to modernize freeway corridors while managing current traffic loads.

Commuters should plan for significant delays and potential congestion on local detour routes throughout the closure period. Adjusting departure times is recommended to avoid the heaviest peak-hour traffic created by these freeway shutdowns.

The takeaway

Drivers should prepare for potential delays by checking local traffic apps before starting their commute. Planning alternate routes now will help mitigate the impact of the ongoing bridge construction on daily travel schedules.