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Morning commute snarled by crashes on US-131 and on I-196

Posted at 8:51 AM, Mar 09, 2016
and last updated 2016-03-09 08:51:03-05

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — A crash involving at least 10 vehicles caused a miles-long traffic jam on northbound US-131 during the morning commute, and traffic was backed up by a crash on westbound I-196. Minor injuries were reported in the accidents.

First, around 7 a.m., a multiple vehicle crash blocked the traffic lanes of US-131 northbound at Wealthy Street. Drivers had to use the Downtown ramp on the right to get around the scene. At least four Michigan State Police troopers could be seen at the scene in addition to three Grand Rapids Fire Department units that blocked the crash lanes.

Not only were the northbound lanes jammed up, but a backup developed in the southbound lanes from a gawker delay. That delay stretched back to West River Drive at one point.

The crash was cleared and all lanes opened shortly after 8 a.m. Michigan State Police has yet to release information on the crash.

Meanwhile, the left two lanes of westbound I-196 were blocked by an injury crash at the College Avenue exit beginning just before 8 a.m. Traffic backed up to I-96.