I-696 Eastbound to Close for Two Years, Major Detours Expected

OAKLAND COUNTY, Mich. – Beginning at 9 a.m. on Monday, March 3, 2025, eastbound I-696 will close for two years as the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) embarks on a significant reconstruction project. The closure is expected to impact hundreds of thousands of daily commuters throughout the metro Detroit area.

Craig Bryson, senior communications manager for the Road Commission for Oakland County, advised drivers to avoid using local “mile roads” and to consider MDOT’s official detour, which may take longer but is designed to ease congestion. “MDOT’s official detour is long and a big drive, but that might be the path of least resistance,” Bryson said.

Commuters can expect increased traffic, especially during Monday morning’s rush hour. Bryson noted that drivers utilizing any eastbound routes in Oakland County may experience heavier congestion, urging them to leave earlier or explore alternative routes as they adapt to the changes.

The reconstruction will see eastbound I-696 closed from M-10 (Lodge Freeway/Northwestern Highway) to I-75. Eastbound traffic will be diverted onto southbound M-10, eastbound M-8 (Davison Highway), and then northbound I-75 to rejoin I-696. Westbound traffic will be maintained while both directions undergo extensive reconstruction.

The ramp closures and restrictions beginning March 3 include specific access points. For example, the southbound M-10 ramp to eastbound I-696 will be closed, as well as the ramps on US-24 to I-696 and various other local entries and exits. These closures are expected to remain in place until the anticipated reopening of eastbound I-696 in fall 2026.

This initiative is the second and final phase of MDOT’s Restore the Reuther project, a comprehensive effort to rebuild sections of I-696, with further work scheduled for 2027. The project aims to repair 60 bridges and improve roadway infrastructure, including the rebuilding of the Church Street Plaza bridge.

Local drivers expressed concerns over the detours. Carmen Nissan, who has avoided I-696 due to its poor condition, said, “I feel terrible for people who have to take it or they have no other choice but to take it.” Terry Fradl, who commutes on I-696 frequently, is preparing for a longer journey. “I know it’s going to be a much longer of a drive home and a lot more gas.”

For those adjusting their travel plans, MDOT warns that the suggested detour could significantly extend commute times. A typical drive from Lahser to Dequindre Road, normally around seven minutes, is expected to double under the construction conditions.

Gary, a commuter, remarked, “It’s going to be a lot of inconvenience and a lot of wasted time.” He anticipates frustration, especially for those unfamiliar with the detour. The new route is expected to add about 10 miles daily, potentially accumulating an additional 50 miles per week. This could result in increased fuel costs, with an estimated extra $6 per week for gas at current prices.

As some drivers contemplate the wear and tear on their vehicles, Terry stated, “I am not ready, and maybe my insurance is going to be going up because I am driving further.” The overall impact of the closure is projected to add about 2,000 miles to the vehicles of those traversing the detour for the duration of construction.

As the closure approaches, Carmen offered advice for fellow commuters: “Find alternative routes before you have to be somewhere. Pay attention, and good luck if you have to take it because you’re going to need it.”