Royal Oak, Michigan – Drivers should expect significant ramp closures at the I-696/I-75 interchange beginning in early March as MDOT resumes the multi-year Restore the Reuther project.
According to the Michigan Department of Transportation, the next phase of work will include rebuilding ramp bases, drainage improvements and pavement replacement at the I-696 and I-75 interchange. Ramp closures will vary in duration, with all ramp work expected to be completed by early summer.
MDOT said the westbound I-696 ramp to southbound I-75 will close and be detoured via southbound M-53 (Van Dyke Avenue) and westbound M-102 (8 Mile Road). The westbound I-696 ramp to northbound I-75 will also close, using the same detour.
The northbound I-75 ramp to westbound I-696 will be detoured via westbound M-102 and northbound M-10, while the southbound I-75 ramp to westbound I-696 will follow the same route. MDOT said the northbound and southbound I-75 ramps to eastbound I-696 will remain open.
Eastbound I-696 ramps to I-75 that were closed last year will remain closed until the project is completed. MDOT also noted that eastbound I-696 will stay closed and detoured from M-10 to I-75 through 2026, with traffic currently shifted to the newly rebuilt eastbound lanes.
The Restore the Reuther project includes rebuilding I-696 in phases through 2027, with major road work planned between I-75 and Dequindre Road next year. The project also includes bridge repairs, drainage upgrades and reconstruction of the Church Street Plaza bridge, where a pedestrian detour remains in place.
For commuters in Metro Detroit, MDOT urges planning ahead and allowing extra travel time once closures begin.
