A significant transformation is on the horizon for a critical section of Interstate 696 in Oakland County. Starting March 1, the eastbound lanes of the Walter P. Reuther Freeway will undergo an extensive closure between Lahser Road in Southfield and Interstate 75 in Royal Oak. This closure, part of the final phase of the "Restore the Reuther" project, will last until late 2027. The reconstruction aims to modernize and enhance this vital transportation artery.

The detour route for eastbound traffic has been carefully planned to minimize disruption. Drivers approaching Telegraph Road will be directed south onto the Lodge Freeway, then east onto the Davison Freeway, and finally north on I-75 to rejoin eastbound I-696. Motorists can still exit at Telegraph or Lahser before the detour begins. Meanwhile, westbound traffic will remain open, with only lane shifts to accommodate construction progress.

The scope of this ambitious project encompasses a 9.5-mile stretch of I-696, originally built in the 1980s, requiring major repairs. The initiative includes rebuilding roadways, bridges, and drainage systems. In 2025 and 2026, an 8-mile segment from Lahser Road to I-75 will undergo full reconstruction. By 2027, a 1.5-mile section from I-75 to Dequindre will see substantial improvements. Additionally, MDOT will oversee the repair or replacement of 60 bridges along the route, including the Church Street Plaza bridge connecting Victoria Park.

Beyond enhancing road safety and durability, this project addresses community needs by upgrading landscapes, playscapes, and walking paths on the three-acre plaza spanning the freeway in Oak Park. According to economic models, this $250 million investment is projected to support 2,385 jobs directly and indirectly. Residents in nearby cities such as Ferndale, Hazel Park, and Royal Oak may experience some impact due to the construction, but the long-term benefits promise improved infrastructure and economic growth for the region.

This transformative endeavor underscores the importance of investing in critical infrastructure to ensure safer, more efficient travel and to foster economic development. The "Restore the Reuther" project not only improves daily commutes but also paves the way for a brighter future for the communities it serves.