Major I-94 Rebuild Begins in Metro Detroit: Map, Detours, and Key Details

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is launching the ambitious Restore I-94 project in late February 2026, aiming to revitalize a 12.7-mile stretch of I-94 from east of I-275 to west of US-12 (Michigan Avenue).

 

This comprehensive endeavor will impact the communities of Romulus, Taylor, Allen Park, Dearborn Heights, Melvindale, and Dearborn.

 

MDOT has outlined a phased approach to minimize disruptions while ensuring significant improvements to the freeway's infrastructure.

 

Project Scope and Timeline

 

The Restore I-94 project encompasses a series of enhancements designed to improve safety, traffic flow, and overall road quality.

 

Key components include:

 

Rebuilding and Realigning the Roadway: Comprehensive reconstruction to address wear and enhance durability.

 

Bridge and Ramp Work: Rehabilitation and replacement of bridges and ramps to meet current standards.

 

Lighting and Drainage Improvements: Upgrades to lighting systems and drainage infrastructure for better visibility and water management.

 

Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) Upgrades: Implementation of advanced technologies to monitor and manage traffic conditions effectively.

 

New Ecorse Road Interchange: Construction of a modern interchange to facilitate smoother traffic flow.

 

The project is divided into five segments, each focusing on specific areas of I-94:

 

Segment 1: Wayne Road to Middlebelt Road

 

Segment 2: Middlebelt Road to Beech Daly Road

 

Segment 3: Beech Daly Road to Pelham Road

 

Segment 4: Pelham Road to Oakwood Boulevard

 

Segment 5: I-94/Schaefer Road Interchange (Ford Rouge Plant Gate 10 Entrance)

 

Construction is slated to begin in early 2026, with completion anticipated by mid-2029.

 

Preliminary work, including clearing and preparing freeway shoulders and medians, will commence in February to facilitate necessary traffic shifts during the project.

 

Traffic Management and Detours

 

MDOT plans to maintain one to two lanes of I-94 open in each direction throughout most of the construction period.

 

However, drivers should anticipate numerous ramp closures and are advised to plan alternative routes accordingly.

 

Access to Detroit Metropolitan Airport will be preserved during the project, ensuring minimal disruption to travelers.

 

Similarly, access to Gate 10 at the Ford Rouge Plant will remain available.

 

For detailed information on detours and traffic management plans, MDOT encourages motorists to consult the project map and updates provided on their official channels.

 

Public Engagement and Meetings

 

To keep the public informed and address any concerns, MDOT has scheduled two public meetings:

 

Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026 (1 - 3 p.m.)

Allen Park DPS Conference Room

24000 W. Outer Drive

Allen Park, MI 48101

 

Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026 (4 - 6 p.m.)

Taylor City Hall

23555 Goddard Road

Taylor, MI 48180

 

These sessions will provide residents and stakeholders with an opportunity to learn more about the project, its impact, and to voice any questions or concerns.

 

Economic Impact

 

With an investment of $353 million, the Restore I-94 project is expected to directly and indirectly support approximately 2,986 jobs.

 

This substantial investment underscores the project's significance in enhancing the region's infrastructure and stimulating the local economy.

 

For ongoing updates and more detailed information, residents and commuters are encouraged to visit MDOT's official project page.

 

Staying informed will help mitigate inconveniences and ensure a smoother transition during this extensive reconstruction period.