The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will began a $1.2 million resurfacing project on M-28 in Alger County on Monday, Aug. 12. The project spans approximately 3.7 miles from Scott Falls Roadside Park to Harborview Road and is expected to continue through Oct. 18.
The scope of the work includes the application of paver-placed surface sealer, crack filling, the addition of rumble strips, and updated pavement markings. According to MDOT, these improvements aim to enhance road safety and extend the lifespan of the existing pavement.
Dan Weingarten, MDOT Superior Region Media Representative, explained the technical aspects of the project.
“This is a relatively routine preventive maintenance resurfacing project. Paverplaced surface seals apply a hot mix asphalt (HMA) layer over an asphalt emulsion membrane seal to provide a smoother surface with better ride quality and an estimated service life of six years,” Weingarten said. “The new surface will also improve roadway friction, enhancing safety for motorists.”
One lane of alternating traffic will be maintained on M-28 throughout the project’s duration, with an 11-foot lane width restriction in place. Work will be conducted during daytime hours only, and drivers can expect delays of up to 10 minutes.
“We will try to keep the delay under 10 minutes as required by our specifications,” Weingarten said. “There are very few viable detour routes in the area – there is no official signed detour. Motorists traveling on M-28 towards Marquette could take M-94 to US-41, which may add a few minutes to travel time.”
The project’s timing has been planned to minimize disruptions to tourist traffic, with lane closures scheduled between Memorial Day and the peak fall color season. The Scott Falls Roadside Park will be briefly closed for paving, though other nearby parks with similar amenities will remain accessible.
Economic modeling suggests that the resurfacing project will directly and indirectly support approximately 15 jobs. These include both construction roles and jobs generated by the economic activity surrounding the project.
“Better roadways support smoother commerce and tourism, fulfilling MDOT’s mission of serving and connecting people, communities, and the economy through transportation,” Weingarten added.
The City of Munising is not directly involved in the project, as confirmed by Munising City Manager Devin Olson.
“MDOT is the project lead and administrator, so there is no involvement from the City,” Olson said. “Historically, the City has had an excellent working relationship with our neighboring transportation agencies and is supportive of all transportation infrastructure improvements in our region.”
The project is expected to have minimal impact on local communities and businesses, with MDOT ensuring access to all driveways for affected residents and businesses throughout the construction period.
M-28 is one of the longest state highways in Michigan, stretching across the Upper Peninsula and providing vital connections between communities and natural landmarks.
