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Cameras, Signs Installed on Southwest Michigan Freeways

Posted at 1:11 PM, Jun 24, 2014
and last updated 2014-06-24 19:30:00-04

I94 Portage CamKALAMAZOO, Mich. (June 24, 2014) – The Michigan Department of Transportation is installing signs and cameras along major roadways in southwest Michigan.

MDOT spokesman Nick Schirripa tells FOX 17 it’s an ongoing effort.

Thirteen cameras are up and running, another 18 are in the process of being installed.

Schirripa says all 17 so-called dynamic message signs slated for the region are expected to be fully functional by the end of July.

The total cost of the project is $6.9 million, 80-percent of which is federal money. The state had to come up with a 20-percent match.

The funding, which comes from the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program, had to be used for a project such as this one. Schirripa says it could not be used for road repairs.

Each camera costs about $125,000, while the signs cost about $175,000 each.

Anyone can check out the cameras by visiting MDOT’s ‘Mi Drive’ page.

The cameras currently available are along I-94 between U.S. 131 and I-69.

Schirripa says cameras will also be installed along U.S. 131 near Stadium Dr., M-43 and in the Schoolcraft area.

Cameras will also be installed along I-94 west of Kalamazoo.

At least one is expected near the I-94 and I-196 interchange, near Benton Harbor.

Schirripa has also said cameras along U.S. 31 have “not been ruled out.”