M-53 near Cass City to close for bridge replacement project

MDOT plans to close a section of M-53 near Cass City starting Monday, July 13, for a bridge replacement project over Greenman Creek.

The closure is expected to last until mid-October, according to the initial report. Drivers will be detoured using Argyle, Germania and Cass City roads during the work.

What is changing

The project centers on a bridge that dates to 1939. MDOT says it will be replaced with a new culvert.

In addition to the crossing replacement, the work will include asphalt reconstruction and guardrail installation along the corridor.

Travel impact

The shutdown affects motorists using M-53 in Michigan's Thumb region, including local travelers and through traffic headed near Cass City. The road is also known as North Van Dyke Road.

The closure should be treated as a multi-month disruption, especially for commuters, freight traffic and drivers relying on the route for local access.

Project context

The reported project cost is about $2.5 million. MDOT estimates the work will support 21 jobs directly and indirectly.

Michigan's Thumb reported the planned closure on July 8, citing the MDOT project details. The main open question now is whether the closure starts on schedule and whether the mid-October target holds once work is underway.