No matter your point of origin when coming into downtown Detroit, there is likely a construction closure you should know about this summer:

• I-96 is closed from the I-94 intersection to I-75 intersection until October 9th, 2008 as part of the Gateway Project. MDOT's Detour Information suggests the following alternatives:
  • Take I-696 in Oakland County to the Lodge Freeway South
  • Take I-96 to the Davison Freeway (east) to the Lodge
  • Take I-96 to I-94(east) to the Lodge
• Southbound I-75 is closed at Rosa Parks until October 9th, 2008
• Gration/M-3 connection to I-75 is closed until October 9th, 2008
• I-75 is closed -- as part of the Gateway project -- from Clark Street to the I-96 split
• Last, but not least, the people mover is closed to replace part of its track until August 18th

For a detailed map that will help you figure out your route, check out MDOT's Interactive map that highlights all construction obstacles.

The multiple, un-staggered closures sure make it hard to get downtown, which is a shame considering how hard the city is working to increase its downtown attractions, including the RiverWalk, the New DIA and Comerica Park. One downtown freeway seems relatively unaffected by construction and is listed by MDOT's Guide to the Ambassador Bridge Gateway Project as the main detour route during construction: I-94. Note that the alternative routes designated are different for truck and commercial traffic.

MDOT provides a lot of detour and construction information online. How are they doing on the roads?