Department of Roads hosts community open house for Schoenherr Road reconstruction project in Shelby Township

The Macomb County Department of Roads (MCDR), in coordination with Shelby Township, has plans to reconstruct and widen Schoenherr Road between 23 Mile Road and 26 Mile Road. MCDR hosted a community open house on November 18 to share preliminary plans and recommended improvements with the public. Residents, business owners and community stakeholders reviewed proposed plans, provided input, asked questions and met directly to the project team.

“Macomb County’s transportation infrastructure connects people, communities and commerce and the Schoenherr Road project is a vital investment in safer and more efficient travel for Macomb County motorists,” said Macomb County Executive Mark A. Hackel. “Through community engagement and collaboration with Shelby Township, the project was identified to ensure Schoenherr Road meets the needs of the community and serves the public well into the future.”

The proposed project is anticipated to be constructed in two phases with the first phase in 2027 between 23 Mile Road and 25 Mile Road and the second phase in 2029 between 25 Mile Road and 26 Mile Road that will include the bridge over the Middle Branch Clinton River. The project includes:

• Widening the road from two lanes to three lanes between 23 Mile Road and 26 Mile Road with added right turn lanes at specific locations for high volume entrances
• A center turning lane and two lanes for through traffic
• Improved drainage and shoulders with new storm sewers, curb and gutter, and pavement markings
• Enhanced safety and traffic flow
• No major changes to driveways or access points

“Schoenherr Road is an important corridor that provides essential north and south access through Shelby Township and throughout Macomb County,” said MCDR Director Bryan Santo. “Reconstructing and widening Schoenherr Road will help enhance traffic flow, reduce congestion, improve safety for drivers and pedestrians and improve access for emergency services.”

The project is anticipated to address traffic congestion, enhance vehicular and pedestrian safety, and improve deteriorating road and bridge conditions. The need for the project includes current and projected traffic volumes, multiple conflict points for vehicles and failing pavement conditions. The project was also identified as a priority by Shelby Township and local stakeholders.

“There is no higher duty of government than to protect the safety and well-being of its people. These critical improvements aren’t just about fixing a road, they’re about keeping a promise to the people we serve, a promise that every child, resident and first responder has a safe path home,” said Shelby Township Supervisor Rick Stathakis. “We’re deeply grateful to our partners at the Macomb County Department of Roads for standing shoulder to shoulder with us in this effort. Their support reflects the best of what government can be, neighbors working together, putting safety above bureaucracy, and building a stronger, safer community for generations to come.”

The federally funded project allows MCDR to complete needed enhancements while reducing costs to both local agencies. The first phase of construction is estimated to cost $9.2 million with $7.9 million in federal funding being applied to the project. The second phase of construction is estimated to cost $13.1 million with $6.5 million in federal funding being applied to the project. The cost of the project will be split between MCDR and Shelby Township after federal funding is applied.

As part of preliminary planning and the environmental review process, MCDR is studying natural resources and cultural sites and is actively communicating with and engaging nearby residents, property owners, local schools, emergency services and the nature sanctuary south of 26 Mile Road.

Additional details regarding the project, including the community open house presentation and project overview, are available online at macombgov.org/schoenherr-road-reconstruction.