ADRIAN — Construction was set to begin Monday, January 12, on the South Main Street pedestrian tunnel in Adrian, following years of planning, property acquisition, and state approvals.
The City of Adrian says the project represents the final administrative step in a process that began in 2022, when the Adrian City Commission approved property acquisitions to allow a grade-separated pedestrian crossing beneath M-52.
Demolition, environmental work, and engineering services were approved in 2023 and 2024. In April 2024, the city entered into a maintenance and operation agreement with the Michigan Department of Transportation, establishing long-term responsibilities. Final execution of the MDOT permit in fall 2025 cleared the way for construction.
Construction costs are funded through state and federal sources, including a MEDC Enhancement Grant administered by Lenawee Now. No city general fund dollars are being used.
Traffic impacts will include lane shifts over the next month, a one-week full closure in April, and phased lane reductions through completion. The project is expected to be finished by Labor Day 2026.
Project updates are available through Prein & Newhof’s construction website.