Major traffic disruptions: US-131 tanker weeks-long closures, MLK bridge thru Nov, weather ties, chases & DASH aid
Key Questions
What caused the US-131 closure near Pearl Street?
A tanker truck fire on southbound US-131 near Pearl Street on April 4 led to weeks-long closures, with southbound double lanes and northbound single lane affected, plus the I-196 ramp shut. Cleanup by Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy continues with no firm timeline.
How long will the MLK Jr. Street bridge over US-131 be closed?
The MLK Jr. Street bridge over US-131 in Grand Rapids closes starting Monday through November for a $20 million replacement project. Detours will be in place during construction.
What happened in the multi-vehicle crash on NB US-131 in Mecosta?
Three people were seriously injured in a series of crashes on northbound US-131 in Mecosta County early Monday morning.
Details on the high-speed chase on US-131?
Kent County deputies arrested a driver fleeing at speeds over 100 mph on US-131 in Plainfield Township after a police pursuit.
What is the new DASH shuttle change in Grand Rapids?
A new DASH route starts May 4, providing service every 8 minutes to ease downtown loops. Riders should check the WGRD app for details.
Any other major US-131 incidents mentioned?
A fiery semi-truck crash near Pearl Street closed northbound and southbound US-131 for hours, and a tanker fire at I-196 also caused disruptions.
What about the Barney Road closure over US-131?
Barney Road in Kalamazoo Township closes next week for bridge replacement over US-131 Business Route by MDOT.
Recent fatal crashes in the area?
A 32-year-old man died in a rollover crash in Zeeland Township, and another driver was ejected and killed in Port Sheldon Township.
US-131 Pearl tanker fire Apr4 no timeline weeks SB double/NB single lanes/I-196 ramp shut; NB Mecosta multi-crash 3 serious; MLK Jr St bridge closes Mon-Nov $20M detours; Amtrak Coloma chaos; US-131 100mph chase arrest; new DASH shuttle eases downtown loops May4.