Michigan Department of Transportation’s $269 million I-96 Flex Route corridor project reduced traffic congestion and unpredictable travel times for commuters, freight operators, and emergency responders along a key 12-mile highway corridor. The I-96 Flex Route project used Michigan’s active traffic management or ATM system to incorporate dynamic lane use, intelligent transportation systems and real-time traffic monitoring to improve mobility and enhance safety. 

This comprehensive deployment of ATM converts the inside shoulder into a dynamic, actively managed flex lane in both directions. It also integrates 166 lane control signs, 24 dynamic message signs, expanded coverage with 36 closed-circuit television cameras, and eight ramp meters with variable speed advisories through coordinated response plans.

The Michigan DOT pursued a Transportation System Management & Operations or TSMO solution as roadway widening wasn’t feasible with current bridges – improving safety and travel time reliability while reducing traffic congestion within the existing roadway footprint. Michigan DOT reported a 37 percent reduction in overall corridor crashes, including an 18 percent decrease during westbound peak hours and a 68 percent drop during eastbound peak hours. The ability to open the flex lane and manage the lane control signs for incident or planned events restores capacity quickly, improves scene safety, and provides advance warning in real-time.