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Long-range transportation plan OK’d; local resurfacing, culvert work planned

By Bud Sargent 3 min read

MARQUETTE -- The State Transportation Commission has approved Michigan's draft state long-range transportation plan, which is named Michigan Mobility 2050.

With STC approval, the Michigan Department of Transportation can now open the public comment period, accepting public and stakeholder input. The MM2050 documents and public comment submission can be found on MDOT's website.

MM2050 defines the long-term direction for the future of Michigan’s transportation network for all users. The plan incorporates an overall vision of the state’s transportation system, as well as two additional federally required documents, the State Rail Plan and State Freight Plan. MM2050 also developed Michigan's active transportation plan. These four efforts combined into one provide a streamlined multimodal vision of the future of transportation in Michigan across all modes.

MDOT updated the SLRTP by reviewing the current Michigan Mobility 2045 plan, reassessing its assumptions and making necessary adjustments to meet evolving federal requirements. As part of the effort, the planning horizon is extended to 2050 to maintain a 20-year outlook.

The new MM2050 plan builds on the goals and strategies of MM2045 while incorporating updates that reflect changes in Michigan's transportation system over the past five years.

Additional questions and written submissions can be directed to Kyle Haller at

Kyle Haller, 
MDOT Bureau of Transportation Planning, 
P.O. Box 30050, 
Lansing, Michigan 48909.

Separately, a section of US 41 from the Alger County line to Marquette County Road 456 will receive contractor attention with cold milling, asphalt resurfacing and pavement markings planned.

About 3.5 miles of US 41 are at issue, according to MDOT. Cost of the project, which is scheduled to start Thursday, Aug. 20 and conclude Friday, Oct. 30, is $900,000.

Drivers should expect one lane of alternating traffic with traffic regulators. This work will extend the lifespan of the roadway and increase safety for motorists. MDOT said.

M-35 culvert replacements in Marquette County

start Aug. 24

Additionally, MDOT is investing about $123,000 to replace two culverts on M-35 south of Palmer. Work includes culvert replacement, backfilling and slope restoration at two locations: near the intersections of M-35 with Marquette County Roads MT and MP. This work will replace culverts that have reached the end of their service lives, extending the lifespan of the roadway and increasing safety for motorists.

One lane of alternating traffic will be open in the work zone via traffic regulators. An 11-foot lane width restriction will be in place in the work zone.

Tentative start date is Monday, Aug. 24 while the estimated ending date of the project is Friday, Sept. 4

Starting at /week.