by Kari Arend

THE MICHIGAN DEPT. of Transportation (MDOT) is seeking public comments on a recently completed Environmental Assessment (EA) for proposed improvements to US-23 between the west US-23/M-14 interchange and Silver Lake Road in Washtenaw and Livingston counties. The meeting is scheduled to take place at the Northfield Township Hall, 8350 Main St., Suite A, Whitmore Lake, Mich. between 4-7 p.m.

In addition, a formal hearing is set for Thursday, Feb. 26, where MDOT will present an overview of the EA, including the alternatives considered and potential impacts and measures needed to minimize those impacts. A formal presentation will occur at 4:30 and 6 p.m. at the hearing.

Improvements to US-23 include replacing and upgrading pavement, median shoulders, bridges and entrance and exit ramps along the corridor. The EA also analyzed the effects of using upgraded shoulders, message boards and enhanced ITS technology as part of a new traffic management system to reduce congestion, improve safety and better accommodate through- traffic during peak periods.

MDOT is proposing to put in place an active traffic management system along US-23 between US-23/M-14 west interchange and M-36 as a way to use innovative technology to manage peak-hour congestion. This system would utilize the upgraded median shoulders on US-23 to help improve traffic flow and increase safety along the corridor. Lane control signs would let drivers know when the system is active. The system would be monitored by MDOT’s Statewide Transportation Operations Center (STOC), through the use of expanded ITS technology and with assistance by the Freeway Courtesy Patrol (FCP).

MDOT investigated the possibility of implementing a toll system, but ultimately discarded the idea as “politically difficult” in Michigan.

The EA is available for review and comment through March 17. View the documents and how to submit written comments, go to: www.michigan.gov/mdotstudies.