KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – The disruptions, confusion and chaos caused by the reconstruction of Westnedge Avenue in Kalamazoo two years ago has had an influence on the design for the overhaul of city streets downtown, which begins construction next month on Kalamazoo Avenue.
City public services director James Baker says the two-way conversion of downtown streets will be done in phases, which should make it less of a headache for drivers and businesses during construction.
The city commission approved an initial $16.8-million contract with MDOT last night for a project that is now estimated to cost over $19.6-million, with all the changes.
Baker says work will start on the eastern stretch of Kalamazoo Avenue from Pitcher to Westnedge to accommodate all the new construction in that area, including the new Kalamazoo Event Center that is scheduled to open in the fall of 2027.
The plan is to rebuild the western portion next year, and the roadway through the Stuart neighborhood the following year.
Work was originally scheduled to begin on Kalamazoo Avenue last year, but Baker says they still plan to have all the work downtown, including the reconstruction of Michigan Avenue done by 2030.
Baker says he will present city commissioners with their plans to keep the community informed and the detours limited at their next meeting in two weeks.
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