MDOT’s I‑96/Fruit Ridge Avenue bridge in Walker reaches national award finals

MDOT’s recent project to rebuild and widen the Fruit Ridge Avenue bridge over I‑96 in Walker, Kent County, has advanced to the finals of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials’ 2026 America’s Transportation Awards. The project is now in contention for the competition’s two highest honors: the Grand Prize and the People’s Choice Award. An independent panel of transportation experts will vote for the Grand Prize, while the People’s Choice Award will be decided by the public through online voting now through 9 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 15. Winners will be announced by AASHTO on Tuesday, Nov. 17, in Louisville, Kentucky.

In partnership with the City of Walker, MDOT invested approximately $35 million to replace the original 1961 Fruit Ridge Avenue bridge over I‑96 and rebuild the interchange. A new nonmotorized path along Fruit Ridge Avenue and 3 Mile Road was also built, with trail connections on the north and south sides. The new structure and interchange have improved safety and traffic flow for vehicles and pedestrians in this growing area.

The Michigan Legislature approved a $25 million grant via Public Act 1 of 2023 to help fund this critical infrastructure improvement project in west Michigan. AASHTO has produced a video that highlights the project benefits and partnerships that helped earn the award and advance the project to the national finals. The Fruit Ridge bridge successfully meets one of our community’s most important transportation needs while creating lasting benefits for the entire region.

Read the full story at michigan.gov.