Monroe Street Reconstruction

Project Characteristics

The Monroe Street Reconstruction project, identified in the City’s Capital Improvement Plan, will rebuild Monroe Street from Front Street to Bay Street. This comprehensive project will replace the existing roadway while introducing important improvements to traffic flow and pedestrian accessibility. The street design will follow the guidelines of the Traverse City Street Design Manual and will feature bump-outs at all intersections to enhance pedestrian safety. Additionally, the plan includes proposed parking on both sides of the street to better serve residents, visitors, and businesses.

Infrastructure Improvements

In coordination with the street reconstruction, significant utility upgrades will take place. The project will include updates to the water and sanitary sewer systems, ensuring reliable service for the surrounding community. These improvements aim to modernize essential infrastructure and provide long-term benefits to the area.

Green Infrastructure

To address stormwater management, the project will incorporate sustainable green infrastructure elements. Bioswales will be installed along the corridor to naturally filter and manage stormwater runoff, helping reduce the strain on traditional storm systems. Drywells will also be included to further improve drainage and enhance environmental resilience.

Mobility

This reconstruction effort is designed to improve overall mobility, balancing the needs of vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists while creating a safer and more accessible residential corridor.

Project Timeline

The proposed project timeline runs from April 2026 through October 30, 2026, weather permitting.

Project Update: August 24, 2026

Phase 3 of the Monroe Street Reconstruction project will kick off on Monday, August 24, with Monroe Street closing from Randolph Street to West Front Street. Work will include sanitary sewer, water main, storm sewer, curb and gutter, pavement, sidewalks, and related improvements, with intermittent impacts expected at the Randolph and West Front intersections. This final phase of reconstruction is anticipated to be completed and reopened to traffic on or around October 30, 2026, weather permitting.

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Willow Hill Access Update: August 24, 2026

Access to Willow Hill will remain available as work continues on the Monroe Street Reconstruction Project. All other work in the immediate vicinity has been completed, and parents may continue to use the street as needed.

In approximately two weeks, crews anticipate placing the final asphalt surface between Wayne Street and Bay Street. This work will be coordinated with paving activities for the next phase of the project, between Wayne Street and Randolph Street.

The paving operation will require an all-day disruption to access. The City has requested at least 48 hours’ notice from the contractor before the work occurs so Willow Hill can notify parents and families in advance.

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Funding

The project total is approximately $4.5 million. 

Funding Sources:

Street Fund $1,871,000

Sanitary Fund $1,458,000

Water Fund $1,171,000