Walker, MI – Local and state officials gathered Friday at the Fruit Ridge Avenue bridge over I-96 in Walker to celebrate the completion of a $30 million infrastructure project that rebuilds and widens a key corridor in west Michigan.
According to the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), the project expanded Fruit Ridge Avenue from 3 Mile Road to Northridge Drive, replacing the original 1961 bridge and reconstructing the I-96 interchange. The work also introduced a new nonmotorized path along Fruit Ridge Avenue and 3 Mile Road, linking trail networks on both the north and south sides.
The Michigan Legislature supported the project with a $25 million grant under Public Act 1 of 2023, helping fund the effort to modernize one of the region’s busiest connections.
Officials say the improvements will enhance safety, reduce congestion, and better accommodate growing traffic volumes in the Walker area. The new bridge and roadway are now fully open to the public.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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