Frequently Asked Questions

How Long will the Construction Take?

Phase 1 of the MDOT project began in April 2012 and was completed in November 2012. This phase took place on M-89 from 12th Street to Hicks Street, as well as the central business district. After suspending work over the winter months, Phase 2, from Sherwood Avenue to 8th Street, will begin mid-March and will be completed in July 2013.

What will this project entail?

The longer, more impactful portion of the construction project was completed in 2012 when the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) reconstructed and improved the stretch of M-89 from 12th Street east to Hicks Street, replaced the M-89 bridge over the Mill Race, eliminated the "merging lane" on eastbound M-89 near Harding's Friendly Market, added sidewalks, a new plaza downtown, and ended West Bridge Street where it intersects with M-89 and Main Street in downtown. Phase 2, the quicker of the two phases, will reconstruct M-89 from Sherwood to 8th Street, removing the existing road's cement base and replace it with asphalt.

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What Does the Project Cost?

The project cost about $11 million and is funded by a combination of State and Federal dollars. The City of Plainwell received a Streetscape Enhancement grant in the amount of $520,000 from the Michigan Department of Transportation that required a $50,000 match. This grant funded streetscape enhancements in the central business district including new benches, trash receptacles, flower receptacles, and colored concrete marking the downtown intersection.

Who is the Contractor?

Kalin Construction of Sodus, Michigan.

Who Came Up with the Ideas for the Streetscape Plans and Arrangements?

The Michigan Department of Transportation hosted a public hearing in January 2011 seeking feedback that they incorporated into the plans.

How do I get to a business when a street is closed?

An M-89 Corridor Improvement Committee was formed in the winter of 2011 to work in conjunction with businesses and organizations to provide the public with vital information during construction season(s). Copious amounts of directional signs will be around the City to guide motorists to businesses. Whether you are looking to get to specific businesses, the signs are meant to assist and promote ease of access, but we also encourage customers to contact the businesses to determine access issues, if at all. All businesses located in Plainwell's corporate city limits are listed on our website.

Where should I park if construction is being conducted on my street?

Parking information is available on this "Re-tour, Don't Detour Plainwell" website. In addition, signs will be posted to help navigate to parking.

Will Eastside Plainwell Businesses be Closed During Construction?

No! Eastbound traffic will remain throughout the duration of the project and access to businesses will be maintained.

Can I put my sales sign or other promotional information outside my business to help people find where to park to come in?

Businesses are free to use signage, as long as it does not interfere with the safety and construction and adheres to sign ordinances. Signs will be posted to indicate what businesses are open within the construction area.

Who should I contact to get specific questions about the project?

Direct your questions or concerns to the City of Plainwell's Economic Development Manager, Emilie Schada. You can contact her at eschada@plainwell.org or by calling 269.685.6821. Meetings will be held regularly during the construction period as well where you may ask questions directly to an MDOT representative.

What about Detours?

Phase 2 of the M-89 Reconstruction project is divided into stages. In 2013 eastbound M-89 traffic will again be maintained through the project. Westbound traffic will be detoured north on Sixth Street to 106th Avenue, west on 106th Avenue to 10th Street, south on 10th Street into downtown Plainwell. MDOT realizes that local traffic may find more efficient routes. Click Detour Map for a visual of the below description.

Westbound M-89 traffic will be detoured north on Sixth Street in Gun Plain Township to 106th Avenue, west on 106th Avenue to Farmer Street, and south back to M-89.

During Stage 3A, the north side of the intersection at Sherwood Avenue will be reconstructed. Southbound Sherwood Avenue traffic will be detoured east on Mariette to Floral and South on Floral to M-89.

During Stage 4A the south side of the intersection at Sherwood Avenue will be reconstructed. North bound Sherwood Avenue traffic will be detoured west on Orchard to Roberts and north on Roberts to M-89.

During Stage 3B the railroad crossing between Roberts and Acorn will be replaced and both the north and south halves of M-89 will be rebuilt. M-89 will be closed to through traffic for an estimated 14 days during this stage. East bound M-89 traffic will be detoured south at Sherwood to 8th Street in Gun Plain Township and north on 8th Street to M-89. Traffic wishing to access residences and businesses on M-89 west of 8th Street will have to proceed north on 8th Street o Industrial Parkway, west on Industrial Parkway to Acorn Street, and south on Acorn Street to M-89.

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Frequently Asked Questions