Apple Avenue West of US 31: Nearing Final Design for 2026 Reconstruction

Muskegon, MI - The extensive planning and community engagement surrounding the reconstruction of Apple Avenue, specifically the vital section located west of US 31 within the City of Muskegon, are culminating as the project approaches its final design phase. This significant infrastructure undertaking, primarily funded by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), is on track for construction to commence in the summer of 2026.

While the reconstruction of Apple Avenue west of US 31 was an MDOT-initiated project that would have occurred regardless of the city's involvement, a close partnership between MDOT, the City of Muskegon, and the community has been a hallmark of the process. Over the past two years, a consistent schedule of updates and meetings with diverse stakeholders, including residents, business owners, and city and county officials, has shaped the project's direction.

This period of intensive engagement is now leading to key decisions, with resolutions being presented to the City Commission to formally commit the city to certain aspects of the project and enable MDOT to complete the final design.

Design Refinements Prioritize Safety and Accessibility

The proposed design for Apple Avenue west of US 31 has been refined through ongoing feedback. The current plan outlines:

• A two-lane configuration in the downtown area.
• A three-lane section through the central part of the corridor.
• The existing five-lane layout will be maintained near the highway.

A notable modification, driven by input from both the community and public safety departments, involves the transition point between the two-lane and three-lane sections. Initially planned for Wood Street, this transition is now proposed to be moved west to Terrace Street. This adjustment aims to provide a longer continuous three-lane segment, enhancing the ability of public safety vehicles to navigate the corridor efficiently.

Beyond the vehicular lanes, the design significantly enhances facilities for alternative transportation and pedestrian safety. Plans include expanded bicycle lanes and the addition of a 10-foot shared-use path on the south side of the avenue, which will extend to Burton Street. The project also incorporates aesthetic improvements such as tree plantings and increased green space within terraced areas.

City's Financial Commitment and the Strategic "Turn Back" Consideration

The City of Muskegon's support for the project design entails a financial commitment estimated at $3.8 million, to be allocated over the next two fiscal years. These costs are categorized as follows:

• Utility Improvements: Approximately $500,000 from the water fund is designated for water system upgrades, including the replacement of water main west of Getty Street. Sewer system improvements on the east end of the project will also consolidate existing lines. (It's important to note that this does not cover lead service line replacement costs).
• State Mandated Contribution: The city is required by Act 51 to contribute a percentage (currently eleven and a quarter percent) of certain eligible project components, funded through the city's road fund.
• Enhancements and Other Costs: The majority of the remaining cost, also from the road fund, will finance the construction of the 10-foot shared path and related drainage and other improvements assigned to the city by MDOT.

In parallel with the design support, the city is also evaluating a separate resolution concerning the potential "turn back," where ownership of Apple Avenue west of US 31 would transfer from MDOT to the city after the reconstruction. Drawing on past experiences with similar transfers like Muskegon and Webster avenues, this presents both advantages and long-term responsibilities.

City ownership could offer greater flexibility in managing the corridor, potentially simplifying the establishment of a Corridor Improvement Authority to support local businesses. It could also allow for more local control over traffic control devices, specifically the signals at Terrace and Pine. While MDOT's analysis suggests a future need for these signals, city staff favor installing all-way stops now for improved pedestrian safety and traffic calming. A turn back could facilitate an agreement to implement the all-way stops.

Conversely, accepting ownership means the city would assume full responsibility for future maintenance and eventual reconstruction of the roadway, costs that would fall to the city budget, potentially supplemented by competitive grant funding.

Looking Ahead to 2026

With the City Commission's decisions on the presented resolutions, MDOT is set to finalize the design for the Apple Avenue west of US 31 project this summer. The fall and winter will see the hiring of a contractor and the development of formal agreements between the city and MDOT outlining the project's execution and financial details. Construction is anticipated to begin in the summer of 2026.