2026 Construction Season Update

March 23, 2026

A large excavator digs a deep pit in a residential area, with workers in safety gear guiding the process. Cozy houses and bare trees are in the background.

Major Infrastructure Projects Underway

Construction season has officially arrived in West Michigan! The City of Muskegon is moving forward with a robust lineup of infrastructure improvements designed to modernize our utilities, increase pedestrian safety, and provide smoother commutes for everyone.

From full road reconstructions to the creation of new trail connectors, here is an update on the major projects happening across our community this year.

Catherine Avenue Reconstruction

Location: Irwin Avenue to Wood Street

Status: Underway (Feb 2026 – July 2026)

This seven-block project is a comprehensive “top-to-bottom” rebuild. We are currently replacing aging sanitary sewers and water mains before moving on to storm sewer installation and a brand-new road surface.

  • Recent Progress: Water main installation and pressure testing are complete between Irwin and Terrace.

  • What’s Next: Crews are currently connecting sanitary laterals to homes and beginning storm sewer work.

  • Learn More: preinnewhof.com/construction_projects/catherine/

Lakeshore Drive Rehabilitation

Location: Beach Street to Sherin Street (Roundabout to Frosty Cove)

Status: Phase 1 active through Memorial Day

To ensure residents and visitors have full access to the lake during our peak season, this project is split into two phases.

Apple Avenue (M-46) Redesign & Utilities

Location: Downtown Muskegon to US-31

Status: Utility prep and planning underway

In partnership with MDOT, this vital corridor is seeing significant investment.

  • Water Safety: The City is currently focused on replacing lead water service lines to homes along Apple Avenue.

  • Looking Ahead: The full MDOT road redesign is scheduled for 2026, creating a safer and more vibrant neighborhood through improved street layouts.

  • Learn More: muskegon-mi.civilspace.io/en/projects/apple-avenue-redesign

Laketon–Lakeshore Trail Connector

Location: Sanford Street and Terrace Avenue (Laketon to Shoreline)

Status: Starting late Spring/Early Summer

Learn More: muskegon-mi.gov/cresources/Laketon-Lakeshore-Trail-Project.pdf

This project will bridge the gap between our two major trails with a new 10-foot-wide concrete non-motorized path.

  • Impact: This dedicated trail will include a new crossing at Apple Avenue with flashing warning lights to ensure pedestrian and cyclist safety.

Lower West Western Avenue

Location: Shoreline Drive to the West End

Status: Starting April 1

Learn More: muskegon-mi.gov/cresources/Lower-W.-Western-Rehabilitation.pdf

As this area transitions from industrial to residential and mixed-use, we are redesigning the street to match its new character.

  • Improvements: We are narrowing oversized lanes, adding sidewalks, and increasing greenspace to make the corridor more walkable and business-friendly.

Western Avenue Resurfacing

Location: 4th Street to Terrace Street

Status: Final Phase scheduled for Fall 2026

Learn More: muskegon-mi.civilspace.io/en/projects/western-avenue-resurfacing-project

Following the successful completion of the first phase last October, the final stretch of downtown resurfacing is set for this fall.

  • Strategy: Work is paused during the summer months to minimize disruptions to our downtown businesses, festivals, and residents.

Stay Connected

The City recognizes that major infrastructure projects come with temporary inconveniences like lane closures or detours. We are committed to minimizing these disruptions and keeping you informed.

  • Learn More: Get details about all these projects and more at mkgcity.com/road-utility-projects

  • Direct Inquiries: Have a specific question? Call the Public Works team at 231-724-4100.

Thank you for your patience as we work to build a better Muskegon!