Maple Road reconstruction begins

Construction is underway again in downtown Birmingham and will last three to four months. The $7.2 million reconstruction of Maple Road between Southfield Road and Woodward Avenue began last week. The city is bearing all of the cost except a $700,000 grant from the Michigan Department of Transportation.

Similar to the Old Woodward Avenue reconstruction in 2018, the Maple Road reconstruction is driven by the need to replace existing water mains and sewer lines, according to a release from the city of Birmingham.

It will also enhance the aesthetics and functionality of downtown Birmingham and improve walkability, the release said.

Key elements of the project include:

• New underground infrastructure

• New streetlights

• New irrigation system

• Improved landscaping and on-street parking

• Granite bench seating

• Cell phone charging stations

• Parking and access to meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act

• A new mid-block crossing for increased pedestrian safety

• Re-alignment of Southfield Road at Maple to reduce sharp turns and lessen congestion in the area, improving safety for motorists and pedestrians.

Old Woodward was reconstructed between Oakland Avenue and Brown Street in 2018. Old Woodward will be reconstructed between Brown and Landon streets in 2022. Residents and businesses are encouraged to sign up for weekly project updates at www.bit.ly/bhamnews. Learn more about the project at www.bhamgov.org/ maplereconstruction.