KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – Another major road project is expected to begin in downtown Kalamazoo next week.
The Kalamazoo Avenue reconstruction project is scheduled to begin Monday, July 13, which city officials say marks the start of one of the largest infrastructure investments in downtown Kalamazoo in decades.
The project is part of the City’s Streets For All initiative and will modernize aging underground utilities while rebuilding Kalamazoo Avenue.
Construction will begin near the intersection of Westnedge Avenue and Kalamazoo Avenue and progress eastward in short segments toward Pitcher Street. City officials say the project has been designed to minimize disruption by completing work in smaller phases and reopening each section before moving to the next.
One lane of traffic on Kalamazoo Avenue is expected to remain open for the majority of construction, with limited temporary full closures on north/south streets for underground utility crossings.
The project includes the replacement of aging water mains and underground utilities, storm sewer improvements, new sidewalks, upgraded pedestrian and roadway lighting, modern traffic signals, landscaping, and a roadway designed to support the future conversion of Kalamazoo Avenue to two-way traffic, which is expected to occur in late 2027.
In advance of construction, city staff have worked directly with property owners, businesses, residents, and employees along the corridor to discuss construction timing, access, and project phasing. The city also hosted a public preconstruction meeting in late June to provide an overview of the project, answer questions, and help prepare the community for construction.
Project information, construction schedules, traffic updates, frequently asked questions, and an option to sign up for email updates are available at www.kalamazoocity.org/kalamazooave.
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