A long-waited construction project to replace two aging railroad bridges in Downtown Jackson will begin on Monday, June 1. In order to replace the railroad bridges that go over N. Jackson and N. Mechanic streets, Consumers Energy must first upgrade electrical systems underground. This electrical work will bring street and lane closures to the area over the next five months.

Consumers Energy says this electrical work will be focused on the intersection of Louis Glick Highway and N. Mechanic Street. The utility says Glick will always remain open to traffic, but drivers can expect partial lane closures on Glick, and a full shutdown of N. Mechanic between Pearl and Homewild streets. Sidewalks through this area will not be accessible during construction. The closures will be happening throughout the summer, with the electrical work finishing in Nov. 2020.

The railroad bridges will not be replaced until summer 2021. The Michigan Department of Transportation is administering the $17.4 million project. The bridges are both more than 100 years old. While this outdated infrastructure needs replacing, the low bridges are also becoming more hazardous for trucks. Moving and semi trucks are known to get stuck under the bridges several times a year.

Drivers are asked to prepare for lane closures and plan alternate routes during the construction.