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Southfield Freeway Shutdown Begins in May

WAYNE COUNTY (WWJ) - In order to limit the M-39 Southfield Freeway renovation project to only one construction season, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will close the freeway between M-5 Grand River Avenue and M-10 Lodge Freeway on Saturday, May 14.

The full closure will remain in place until the end of October. During the full closure, traffic will be detoured to US-24 Telegraph Road. 

The extended M-39 closure is required to complete the freeway pavement reconstruction between McNichols Road and M-10.

In addition, crews will make extensive repairs to 24 overpasses, replace freeway lighting and drainage, and construct new screen walls that separate the freeway from the service drive on portions of the 14-mile long freeway. 

"After extensive traffic simulation analysis and discussion with the community, a full freeway closure was the preferred option to ensure all work is completed in 2011," Metro Region Engineer Tony Kratofil said in a release.

While the posted detour is Telegraph Road, MDOT encourages motorists to use one of the many available local detour routes that best fits their commute. However, commercial traffic will be required to use Telegraph Road. 

For the latest from the roads, stay with WWJ Newsradio 950 during Traffic and Weather on the 8s, 24-hours a day. Check for recent incidents now on our Traffic Page.

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