M-26 reopened after flood damage, M-203 remains closed

June 21, 2018 — The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has reopened M-26 after flooding in Houghton County forced several closures Sunday. Other partial and complete closures of state trunkline remain in effect as repair efforts continue:

– M-26 is now open to through-traffic from the Portage Lake Lift Bridge to Laurium. Flooding caused major damage in Ripley near the Mont Ripley ski hill with extensive debris on the road. A culvert washout north of Dollar Bay forced a closure of M-26 there. Both areas have reopened after emergency repairs.

– US-41 is now open between Chassell and Houghton but limited to only one lane open in each direction in some areas. The route suffered pavement damage and multiple shoulder washouts. Temporary traffic signals are in use near Denton Road and north of the Pilgrim River bridge. Multiple repair locations with uneven gravel surfaces require reduced speeds. Emergency repairs continue at some locations.

– M-203 remains closed at Swedetown Creek where a culvert washed out. MDOT is preparing plans for constructing a single-lane temporary bridge at the location. Northbound traffic from Hancock to Calumet is being detoured via US-41. M-203 is open to local traffic.

MDOT will continue to monitor roadways in the area and contractors are working to repair flood damage. All roads in the area, even if they are open to traffic, are not back to normal. Motorists should use extra caution and be alert for changing conditions, road workers, volunteers, and potential hazards.

More information will be released as it becomes available.