LANSING — The Michigan Department of Transportation is looking back on major transportation projects completed across the state in 2025.
MDOT Director Brad Wieferich joined Jeff Cranson on the Talking Michigan Transportation podcast to discuss highlights from the past year, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with local communities and the role state trunk lines play as many cities’ main streets.
Wieferich said while drivers may not think about who owns a roadway, those jurisdictional distinctions matter when it comes to funding, maintenance, and project timing — especially in communities where state routes double as local business corridors.
Projects discussed include the M-72 and M-22 roundabout near Traverse City, improvements to the I-496 and U.S. 127 interchange in Lansing, replacement of the Fruit Ridge Avenue Bridge over I-96 in Walker, resurfacing work on M-26 in Ontonagon County, the U.S. 31 business route connection into Kalamazoo, the ongoing I-696 rebuild in metro Detroit, reconstruction along I-475 in Flint, and a new rail bridge over the Manistee River.
Wieferich said building trust with local officials, businesses, and residents is critical — particularly during major construction projects that impact daily travel — and that clear communication helps communities understand not just what MDOT is doing, but why.