GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Traffic is moving slower on Monday after road officials close northbound US-131 for construction.
The road is closed from 28th street to Burton Street in Grand Rapids.
MDOT spokesperson John Richard says officials chose the start of Easter Sunday because it was the beginning of spring break and will lead to less traffic on the road.
“When they're doing that traffic setup and setting up those barricades, there's less traffic out there for those workers. And it makes it easier for not only the workers, but the motorists as well, too,” said Richard.
He also says starting the construction during spring break helps get the word out to people before it impacts their daily routines.
"It helps get the word out, it helps people get used to it that are here. So, when everyone does come back from spring break, the word is out, they'll know that it's common as well. And they can take a lot more time to get to their destination,” said Richard.
Drivers like Bobby Ledesma, an umpire, says the construction doesn’t come at the best time.
"It's crazy because I have to drive that way to go by Rockford [to] umpire sometimes. That's going to delay my time going out, getting up there to do my games,” said Ledesma.
The project, which will make bridge repairs over Plaster Creek, will last about four weeks. After that, crews will switch to the southbound side of US-131 to start repairs for another four weeks.
Ledesma says he hopes the project doesn’t take to long.
“Get it done. Don't waste no time. Let's go,” said Ledesma.
Richard says he encourages people to take it slow and drive with precaution along the detours.
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