July 27, 2010 -- With the majority of construction complete, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) plans to open much of the new US-41/Front Street roundabout in Marquette to traffic this Thursday, July 29. All lanes of the roundabout are expected to be open in mid-August.
"Motorists on US-41 have had a chance the last few weeks to drive through a portion of the roundabout, but this will be the first time most of the new intersection will be open," said Andy Sikkema, manager of MDOT's Ishpeming Transportation Service Center (TSC). "As with any change to an intersection, motorists will need some time to adjust, and we urge them to be cautious as they become accustomed to it."
Until the bypass lanes from downtown Marquette to US-41 West and from US-41 to south Marquette are completed, traffic from downtown Marquette will still need to access US-41 at Grove Street.
To prepare motorists in advance on how to drive the roundabout MDOT has posted an animated video of it on MDOT's YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/MichiganDOT.
"The animation is a good way for motorists to familiarize themselves with how they'll get to their destination using the roundabout ahead of time, and reduces some of the anxiety of trying something new," Sikkema said.
A camera view of the roundabout is available at the MDOT traffic information Web site, MI Drive. A still image of the roundabout is available. The view looks east at the intersection toward Lake Superior, and shows the current state of the roundabout construction. Click US-41 @ Front Street Roundabout on the drop-down menu to check it out.
Construction of this modern roundabout began in early May, and is funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Designed to reduce congestion and improve safety at the intersection, the entire project is scheduled to be completed by mid-August.
For more information, please contact James Lake, MDOT Office of Communications, 906-786-1830, ext. 323, lakejames@michigan.gov
