Arthur Road to close in Big Rapids Township for Tonkin Drain project

Arthur Road in Big Rapids Township will close to traffic starting June 15 as part of the Tonkin Drain Improvement Project, according to the Mecosta County Drain Commission.

The closure affects the stretch of Arthur Road between Northland Drive and Norris Avenue. Drivers will need to follow the posted detour route using 205th Avenue and 12 Mile Road to reach Northland Drive.

The Drain Commission said the Arthur Road work is part of a broader drainage project intended to reduce flooding and address infrastructure problems in the area. The project includes replacing an existing tile system with a storm sewer across and along Arthur Road.

Related work on Gilbert Road

The same day, storm sewer work is also scheduled to begin on Gilbert Road. Traffic is expected to be maintained there during construction, even as crews start the next phase of work.

The commission has said the work is taking place within county road right-of-way and Tonkin Drain right-of-way acquired for the project. Project updates, closure information and maps are available through the Drain Commission's online resource.

The Tonkin Drain project has been under way since 2025 and has involved a series of drainage and road-crossing improvements in Big Rapids Township. Earlier coverage described the work as part of a larger flood-mitigation effort with multiple construction phases.

For nearby residents and regular drivers, the immediate impact will be a detour on Arthur Road and added construction disruption as the drainage project advances. The Drain Commission has not said how long the closure will last.