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Traffic on US-41 in Hancock is now open as the summer reconstruction project wraps up.
The reopening of the highway marks the completion of US-41 reconstruction work in Hancock, which began in 2016.
In the final phases of the project, the Michigan Department of Transportation invested $2 million to reconstruct Front Street between Reservation Street and the Portage Lake Lift Bridge, as well as the southbound US-41 connector ramp to eastbound M-26.
“We want to thank the community, area business owners and motorists for their patience during two long construction seasons,” said Al Anderson, project manager for MDOT’s Ishpeming Transportation Service Center. “We know how disruptive lane closures and detours can be.”
Anderson thanked the prime contractor, Hebert Construction, for their hard work in a very cramped and busy work zone.
“We also want to thank the designer, OHM Advisors,” Anderson said. “We’re very pleased with the outcome. We think the final product is something everyone can be proud of.”
“The city is grateful to have partnered with MDOT to undertake this much-needed infrastructure rebuild of the downtown area, and we appreciate the significant investment made by MDOT to make this project happen,” said Hancock Mayor Lisa McKenzie. “I am thankful for the cooperation and patience that the public has exhibited during the last two construction seasons, and am very happy the project is finished.”
Along with the 2016 Hancock streetscape project, the US-41 reconstruction represented a $7.1 million investment in Hancock’s downtown US-41 business district, as Quincy Street is a major gateway to the Keweenaw Peninsula.
“This project required extensive coordination between MDOT, the contractor and the city during planning and construction,” said Anderson. “That collaboration was crucial to its success.”
