US-31 rebuilding through Bear Lake starts July 13

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. - The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will invest $5.5 million to rebuild US-31 between Maidens Road and Norconk Road in Bear Lake. The project includes:

• Replacing existing sidewalks,
• Installing sidewalk bump-outs in the downtown area to shorten pedestrian crossing distances and delineate parking, and
• Installing new sidewalks on the west side of US-31 from Bear Lake Market to Potter Road and on the east side from Cody Street to Hopkins Drive.

County:
Manistee

Highway:
US-31

Closest community:
Bear Lake

Start date:
Monday, July 13, 2026 (weather permitting)

Estimated end date:
Friday, Nov. 13, 2026

Traffic restrictions:
This work will require lane closures with traffic regulators and traffic shifts.

Jobs numbers:
Based on economic modeling, this investment is expected to directly and indirectly support 47 jobs.

Safety benefit:
This project will expand and improve pedestrian facilities along the corridor, and provide a smoother roadway for drivers and cyclists.