Telegraph Road Culvert Replacement Project

Telegraph Road Culvert Replacement Project
Posted on 09/17/2025
TELEGRAPH ROAD CULVERT REPLACEMENT PROJECT

Telegraph Road is closed for three weeks beginning Monday, September 29, in the City of Monroe.

Local Businesses Remain Open and accessible on either side of the culvert.  While Telegraph is completely closed to the thru-traffic, all businesses around the full closure (between Holiday and Greenfield) will still be accessible. When you see a road sign that says “Closed to Thru Traffic,” like the one at Stewart Road and Telegraph, it means the road is temporarily closed to drivers just passing straight through.   

Local Access Remains Open. If you are visiting a business or destination along the closed road, you are still allowed to enter and drive to that location. All businesses along the route remain accessible.

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has begun a critical infrastructure project on US-24 (Telegraph Road) at the Mason Run Drain. This work involves replacing the aging 1970s culvert, relocating essential utilities (sanitary sewer and natural gas), and preparing for future sidewalk expansion in front of local businesses.  This will necessitate the full closure of Telegraph Road between Greenfield and Holiday for and estimated three weeks.

CLOSURE LOCATION:

  • Telegraph Road between Greenfield and Holiday

CLOSURE DATES:

  • Full closure begins at 12:01 a.m. on Monday, September 29, and is anticipated to last until midnight on Sunday, October 19, 2025.
  • Anticipated road reopening on Monday, October 20 - weather permitting.
  • Isolated lane closures leading up to the closure (week of September 22) will occur for signage,
    staging, etc.

A three-week closure allows the project to be completed and the roadway fully reopened in the most efficient manner. Without a full closure, construction could extend into 2–3 months, creating greater disruption and overlapping with the holiday shopping season.

This MDOT project is vital as it replaces the aging culvert carrying US-24 over the Mason Run Drain. The current structure, built in the 1970s, requires replacement to ensure long-term structural integrity.

Traffic will be impacted, so plan ahead!  Expect extra congestion and delays; allow extra travel time and consider alternative routes.  

Please follow posted signs and traffic directions to keep drivers, pedestrians, and workers safe.

Detour Maps and FAQs listed below.

Organizing Entities include: the Michigan Department of Transportation (MODT); City of Monroe; Frenchtown Township; Monroe County Road Commission; Monroe County Drain Commissioner Office; Monroe County; Mannik and Smith.

Please direct questions and concerns to our Engineering staff at 734.384.9126.  Although this is an MDOT project, it directly affects City of Monroe residents, visitors, commuters, etc. and we are taking a proactive role in this collaborative project to keep you informed and navigating this project safely.
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Department Quick Links


FAQ

Why is this project necessary?

The culvert under US-24 at Mason Run Drain was built in the 1970s and is now at the end of its useful life. Replacing it ensures long-term safety and reliability of the roadway. The project also relocates key utilities and makes room for future sidewalk expansion in front of local businesses.

How long will US-24 be closed?

The closure is expected to last about three weeks.

Full closure will begin at 12:01 a.m. on Monday, September 29, and is anticipated to last until midnight on Sunday, October 19, with anticipated road reopening on Monday, October 20 - weather permitting. *

Isolated lane closures leading up to the closure (week of September 22) will occur for signage, staging, etc.

* Without a full closure, the project could stretch into 2–3 months, overlapping with the busy holiday shopping season and creating greater disruption.

Where will Telegraph Road be closed?

Telegraph Road will be closed between Greenfield and Holiday, with anticipated reopening on Monday, October 20 - weather permitting.

What does 'Road Closed to Thru Traffic' Mean?

When you see a road sign that says “Closed to Thru Traffic,” it means the road is closed only for people just driving straight through.

If your destination is on that road—like a store, restaurant, business or a home —you can still drive in, park, and get where you need to go.

Think of it like this: the road is not a shortcut for passing through, but it’s still open for anyone who needs to visit places along the way.

Will my neighborhood be affected?

Yes, increased traffic is expected on nearby residential streets (Macomb, Roessler, Lavender, Front, etc.).

Public Safety will monitor of traffic pattern and flow variation throughout the neighborhoods. The City may implement Local Traffic Only restrictions, no-parking zones, and right-turn-only exits to keep traffic flowing and maintain safety if necessary. 

Will emergency vehicles still have access?

Absolutely. Police, Fire, and EMS will have dedicated access routes throughout the project.

What about schools and student safety?

The City and Public Safety are working closely with schools to coordinate affected bus traffic and drop-off/pick-up. A Traffic Control Unit may assist during peak times if necessary, and temporary signage may be implemented to guide traffic.

How will this affect churches and places of worship?

Police Administration will have/are meeting directly with affected houses of worship to plan for service times and traffic needs.

Are businesses still open?

Yes. All businesses remain open during construction.

How can I stay updated?

Updates will be shared through:

  • City website project page (maps, FAQs)
  • Social media alerts & META Local Alerts
  • Press releases and media interviews
  • MCANS county alert system
  • Email newsletter and e-blasts