The High-Speed Lane Separation project on US-31 and M-72 in Acme Township, a $1.94 million initiative, sought to reduce crashes on a one-mile stretch near East Grand Traverse Bay. From 2013 to 2017, this area experienced three fatal and three serious injury crashes. In response, Michigan DOT added a 6-foot-wide centerline buffer with raised median islands, guardrails, edge line corrugations, and an inclement weather warning system. With an Annual Average Daily Traffic of 27,840, the project benefits the community by providing a safer commute for thousands of residents, tourists and commercial travelers along this major highway. During adverse winter weather conditions, the buffer space in combination with the advanced warning system help reduce risk of high-severity crashes along this segment. An existing multi-use pathway parallel to this segment keeps vulnerable road users separated from the high-speed section of US-31. From this moment, no fatal or serious crashes have occurred, and speeds have dropped, making the corridor safer for all.
America's Transportation Awards 