By Staff
NILES -- The Michigan Department of Transportation will begin a major construction project in 2005 to improve traffic flow on M-51 in Niles.
The department will be hosting an open house-style meeting to discuss the project at the Niles District Library on March 25 from 4 to 7 p.m.
The construction plans are to widen M-51 to three lanes from Main Street to the north city limits (the area near Northside School) and will also include resurfacing the road to Pucker Street.
In addition to the new roadway, Niles Public Works Director Neil Coulston said the project will include wider, paved shoulders and new curbs and gutters.
Michigan Department of Transportation plans to take bids on the project later this year and begin construction early in 2005.
Coulston said though the project is being completely funded by the Department of Transportation, the City of Niles has been actively involved in the planning process.
He said construction will be taking place through the spring, summer and fall of 2005 and will cause some major traffic disruption.
The construction project will also include widening the turning radius at the intersection of Fifth and Main Street, aligning the Wayne Street intersection and making the curve near The Flower Cart more gradual.
Michigan Department of Transportation officials invite the public to come to the open house to discuss any questions or concerns regarding the project.