4 bridges over Portage Creek will see fixes in 2026

KALAMAZOO, MI — Four grants totaling $304,000 from the Michigan Department of Transportation will go toward work on four Kalamazoo bridges that go over Portage Creek.

The money can't be put to use until 2026, according to city documents, though the Kalamazoo City Commission accepted the grant money during its Monday, Nov. 18 meeting.

Engineers recommended preventative maintenance after inspecting bridges on Alcott Street, Dutton Street, Portage Street and Vine Street as they cross Portage Creek, per city documents.

In the meantime, the bridges are still safe to drive on, said Public Services Director James Baker.

"In engineering, we have more than just perfect and garbage," Baker said.

Should their condition deteriorate, the city could instate load limits and eventually block access to the bridges, Baker said. These steps are not necessary at this time.

MDOT funding will cover 95% of the maintenance costs, per city documents, leaving the city to spend $16,000 across the four projects.

The city received $82,650 for both Portage Street and Dutton Street bridges, $74,100 for work on Alcott Street and $64,600 on Vine Street.

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