Archived Projects

The full length of Hamilton Ave. (in downtown Birmingham) was completely rebuilt, including new sewer, water, street, sidewalks, and street lights. The street was closed to vehicular traffic from April through the end of June, but sidewalks remained open to businesses.  Other streets that were included in the project were N. Old Woodward Ave. (Oakland Blvd. to Hamilton Ave. ) for sewer work, and Park St. (Hamilton Ave. to Maple Rd.) for the installation of a new concrete street.

Update - July 1, 2016

Hamilton Ave. and Park St. opened back up to through traffic on July 1st, on schedule as originally planned. The road was swept and initial pavement markings were installed. Additionaliy, pavement markings for crosswalks and parking spaces were completed, as well as signs and parking meter posts. We are grateful to all who were involved in making this project a success. 

The existing unimproved road was removed and replaced with new concrete between Adams Rd. and Columbia Ave. The project was completed in November and included new sewers where needed.  A portion of the cost of this work was special assessed to the adjoining property owners.  The project was initiated by a petition of a majority of the property owners.

Interested parties received electronic updates about this project by signing up for the Villa Ave. Paving Project Constant Contact group at www.bit.ly/bhamnews. Below are a list of updates sent out regarding this project:

• Villa Avenue Paving Project Update 9-16-16 
• Villa Avenue Resident Information Update 9-15-16 
• Villa Avenue Paving Project Update 9-15-16 
• Villa Avenue Paving Project Update 9-1-16 
• Villa Avenue Paving Project Update 8-26-16 
• Villa Avenue Paving Project Notice 8-19-16 
• Villa Avenue Paving Project Update 8-16-16 
• Villa Avenue Paving Project Update 8-2-16 
• Villa Avenue Paving Project Update 7-22-16 
• Villa Avenue Paving Project Update 7-13-16 
• Villa Avenue Paving Project Update 7-7-16 
• Villa Avenue Paving Project Update 6-28-16 
• Villa Avenue Paving Project Update 6-22-16 
• Villa Avenue Paving Project Announcement 6-3-16 

The West Maple Road Paving Project was conducted in the summer of 2016 and successfully completed, incorporating an improvement from a four-lane road to a three lane road. The information below summarizes the process and steps taken to complete the project. To view the weekly updates that were issued regarding the West Maple Road project, follow these links:

• W. Maple Road Paving Project Update 09-20-16  
• W. Maple Road Paving Project Notice 09-15-16 
• W. Maple Road Paving Project Update 09-12-16 
• W. Maple Road Paving Project Update 09-09-16 
• W. Maple Road Paving Project Notice 09-08-16 
• W. Maple Road Paving Project Notice 09-07-16 
• W. Maple Road Paving Project Update 09-02-16 
• W. Maple Road Paving Project Update 09-01-16 
• W. Maple Road Paving Project Update 08-31-16 
• W. Maple Road Paving Project Update 08-24-16 
• W. Maple Road Paving Project Update 08-19-16 
• W. Maple Road Paving Project Update 08-16-16 
• W. Maple Road Paving Project Update 08-05-16 
• W. Maple Road Paving Project Update 08-02-16 
• W. Maple Road Paving Project Update 07-25-16  
• W. Maple Road Paving Project Update 07-15-16 
• W. Maple Road Paving Project Update 07-05-16 
• W. Maple Road Paving Project Update 06-24-16 
• W. Maple Road Paving Project Update 06-17-16

W. Maple Rd. OPEN

We are pleased to announce W. Maple Road is reopened to traffic from Cranbrook to Southfield.  We hope you are pleased with the newly paved surface and appreciate your patience in waiting for this project to be completed. Please drive safely.

 

W. Maple Road to be CLOSED Aug. 3 - mid-September

Motorist should be warned that W. Maple Rd. will be closed in both directions for resurfacing between Cranbrook and Southfield Road starting Wednesday, August 3.


 
Through traffic will be asked to follow the posted detour route, which is directing traffic to Quarton Rd. via Lahser Rd. on the west, and Woodward Ave. on the east. Motorists are asked to respect the road closure for the sake of everyone's safety, as well as to facilitate a fast, efficient project. The project is expected to be completed by mid-September.

W. Maple Road Decision Made to Continue 3-Lane Configuration



The West Maple Road Trial has concluded, and a decision has been made to keep the 3-lane configuration on West Maple Road between Cranbrook and Southfield. The trial concludes after months of data have been gathered and presented, and a final data summary  was presented to the City Commission July 11, 2016. The data that was collected during three analysis periods included crash data, average daily traffic volumes, peak period traffic volumes, speed data, cut-through traffic, and travel time. The improvements on West Maple Road are part of the City's on-going infrastructure improvement program, and the next step is to complete the resurfacing and permanent restriping of West Maple Road.

W. Maple Rd. Resurfacing Planned for 2016

THE CITY IS MOVING FORWARD WITH THE COMPLETE RESURFACING OF W. MAPLE RD. FROM CRANBROOK TO SOUTHFIELD THIS SUMMER. FOR THE PROJECT SCHEDULE, GO TO WEST MAPLE ROAD RESURFACING PLANS.

2016 Charter Amendment Ballot Proposal Fact Sheet

Birmingham residents will be asked to vote on a citizen initiated ballot proposal to amend the City of Birmingham Charter on March 8, 2016 in conjunction with the Presidential primary election. View the Ballot Proposal Fact Sheet.

View the interim results of the West Maple Road Trial: Interim Data Summary of 1.19.16.
The re-striping of West Maple Rd. began Saturday, October 3, 2015. See information below for further details regarding the trial. Download Frequently Asked Questions about the West Maple Road project.



Last year the City of Birmingham implemented a new process for reviewing its road improvements. This review process involved the creation of a new Multi-Modal Transportation Board to review mobility enhancements contained within its Multi-Modal Master Plan.

In 2016, as part of the City’s on-going infrastructure improvement program, West Maple Road is planned for a complete resurfacing from Cranbrook Road to Southfield Road. The City obtained a federal grant to cover the cost of this resurfacing project. The width of West Maple Road will not change.

To broaden the extent of public input on the West Maple Road project, the Multi-Modal Transportation Board established a special committee to study the road in greater detail.  This nine member committee, made up of various resident and commercial interests located in the immediate area, worked with the City’s traffic consultant. The committee identified current issues with the road, developed recommendations to address the issues, and presented their recommendations to the Multi-Modal Transportation Board in April of 2015. 

The common issues identified by the committee concerning West Maple Road that needed to be addressed included the following:

• Concern that this section of W. Maple Road is dangerous and does not feel safe;
• Concern about the excessive speed of traffic on W. Maple;
• Concern about vehicles swerving to avoid other vehicles making turns along the corridor;
• Concern about the difficulties of turning onto W. Maple from adjacent side streets;
• Concern about traffic backups at Southfield Road;
• Difficulty for pedestrians to cross W. Maple; and
• Satisfaction with the sidewalk conditions along the W. Maple corridor.

Accordingly, the committee agreed that each of the above common areas of concern should translate into the following objectives for improvements considered for the W. Maple corridor:

• The committee worked with the City’s engineering, planning and police departments as well as the City’s contracted traffic engineer to formulate a set of recommendations that could maintain current service levels for the road, while reducing speeds and accidents. These recommendations to the Multi-Modal Transportation Board were included in the following motion approved by the committee:Improve the safety of the corridor, especially for vehicular and pedestrian traffic;
• Lower the speed of vehicular traffic in the corridor;
• Reduce the amount of vehicles swerving to avoid cars making turns along the corridor;
• Enhance the ease of vehicles to turn onto W. Maple from adjacent side streets;
• Reduce traffic congestion in the vicinity of the Southfield Road intersection;
• Provide safe and convenient pedestrian crossings along the corridor; and
• Maintain sidewalk facilities in the corridor.

MOTION:

The Steering Committee recommends to the Multi-Modal Transportation Board that W.

Maple Rd. between Cranbrook Rd. and Southfield Rd. be reconfigured as a three lane road containing two 10 ft. wide through traffic lanes, one 10 ft. continuous left turn lane, two 7 ft. wide shoulder areas without creating bike lanes, with the following additional conditions:

• A 6 month trial period to commence after the road is repaved with a formal study by the  City to consider the effects of the reconfiguration in the last month, with such results to be reviewed by the Steering Committee;
• Installation of ADA ramps at all corners and crossings;
• Crosswalk marking improvements to be made at the signalized intersections;
• The addition of a right turn only lane for eastbound traffic turning south on Southfield Rd.;
• The addition of pedestrian refuge striped crossing islands to the east of Chesterfield Ave., east of Lakepark Dr., and west of the Rouge River bridge, the latter with Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons;
• The removal of low use bus stops;
• The enhancement of higher use bus stops (concrete pad, benches, shelters etc.); and
• The addition of enhanced technology in the existing signals to control and optimize  signal cycle lengths and timing.

Upon study and review of the committee’s recommendation, the Multi-Modal Transportation Board modified their recommendation to the City Commission to slightly enlarge the travel lanes and reduce the buffer at the side of the road.  The following resolution was adopted by the Multi-Modal Transportation Board and presented to the City Commission:

Resolution directing staff to proceed with plan preparation for the W. Maple Rd. Resurfacing Project from Cranbrook Rd. to Southfield Rd., to include two 12 ft. wide through traffic lanes, one 12 ft. continuous left turn lane, and two 4 ft. wide shoulder areas without bike lanes. Further, adding the following additional conditions:

• A 6 month trial period to commence after the road is repaved with a formal study by the City to consider the effects of the reconfiguration. The W. Maple Rd. Steering Committee will reconvene in April, 2017, to study the following measures, compared to the conditions that existed prior to the project, including:
  • Average speeds;
  • Average daily traffic;
  • Crash rates;
  • Cut through traffic during the PM Peak Hour on the following roads: S.Glenhurst Ave., Larchlea Dr., Chesterfield Ave., Pleasant Ave., Pilgrim Ave., Arlington Rd., Shirley Rd., and Lakepark Dr.; and e. Level of Service at the Southfield Rd. and Chester St. intersections.
  • The Steering Committee will also actively solicit public input from all interested stakeholders as a part of the process, and make a recommendation for the future of the corridor to the Multi-Modal Transportation Board.
• Installation of ADA ramps at all corners and crossings;
• Crosswalk marking improvements to be made at the signalized intersections;
• Congestion relief improvements between Southfield Rd. and Chester St. including a right turn lane for eastbound traffic at Southfield Rd. and dual left turn lanes between Southfield Rd. and Chester St.,
• Installation of marked crosswalks at the Chesterfield Ave. and Lakepark Dr. traffic signals;
• The removal of low use bus stops;
• The enhancement of higher use bus stops (concrete pad, benches, shelters etc.);
• The addition of enhanced technology in the existing signals to control and optimize signal cycle lengths and timing.

At the City Commission meeting of June 1, 2015, the City Commission considered the recommendation of the Multi-Modal Transportation Board, reviewed the data behind the recommendation and listened to public input before adopting the following actions from the recommendations presented. 

• To approve the installation of ADA ramps at all corners and crossings; the enhancement of higher use bus stops (concrete pad, benches, shelters etc.); and the addition of enhanced technology in the existing signals to control and optimize signal cycle lengths and timing. 
• To approve crosswalk marking improvements to be made at the signalized intersections; congestion relief improvements between Southfield Rd. and Chester St. including a right turn lane for eastbound traffic at Southfield Rd. and dual left turn lanes between Southfield Rd. and Chester St.; installation of marked crosswalks at the Chesterfield Ave. and Lakepark Dr. traffic signals; and the removal of low use bus stops. 
• To accept the Multi-Modal Transportation Board’s recommendation and direct a trial reconfiguration of West Maple Road as soon as possible to evaluate the resulting safety enhancements resulting from restriping the road from four to three lanes with a center turn lane, incorporating a right turn lane for eastbound traffic at Southfield and dual left turn lanes between Southfield and Chester. Further to study the following measures with conditions that existed prior to the reconfiguration including average speeds, average daily traffic crash rates, cut through traffic during the PM peak hour on South Glenhurst, Larchea, Chesterfield, Pleasant, Pilgrim, Arlington, Shirley, Baldwin, and Lakepark, and the Level of Service at the Southfield and Chester intersections, as well as at the three churches. 

Throughout the West Maple Road review process, the safety benefits to be gained from a 3 lane configuration were highlighted, including lowering average speeds, lowering speed differentials, reduction of accident rates and accident severity, the reduction of traffic conflict points, improved pedestrian crossings, and improved gaps in traffic for ease of turning onto W. Maple from the surrounding neighborhoods. To verify the safety benefits that may be gained for the W.

Maple corridor with the 4 to 3 lane reconfiguration, the City has formulated a plan to ensure that data is obtained before the trial period begins to as accurately as possible measure the impact of the reconfiguration. Included in that plan are the following: 

• Once Oak Street is reconstructed and traffic patterns return to normal, traffic data of several types will be collected in late September 2015 to document the current level of service.
• In early October 2015, the existing pavement markings will be removed, and W. Maple Rd. will be restriped to three lanes.  As a part of the plan, no changes will be made in the area of Cranbrook Rd.  Changes between Southfield Rd. and Chester St. will provide more storage for left turns, potentially improving the current situation in that area. 

To effectively evaluate the proposed changes to the road during this trial period, the following test criteria have been established for this effort. The key areas being considered are average speeds, traffic volumes, cut through traffic, travel time comparisons, and accident data.
 
Average Speeds:

Testing will begin approximately two weeks after Oak Street is re-opened (mid to late September 2015). The counts will be done on Maple near Chesterfield and on Maple near Baldwin, both eastbound and westbound. 

Traffic Volumes: The following locations will receive pre and post volume counts as part of this evaluation.

• Oak Street
• Quarton Road
• Maple Road
• Lincoln Road
• Fourteen Mile Rd.

Cut Through Traffic:

Testing will or has already occurred for the following locations to assess if traffic counts have increased following the trial lane reconfiguration: 

• Church traffic along Maple – Will be counted in the middle of September for turns during PM peak hours and on Sunday (10 AM –Noon). A traffic volume count will also be conducted for Sunday. Additionally, churches will be contacted for calendars, schedules or noted “busy” times in the middle of September and to determine which driveways are the busiest. 
• Intersection at Maple and Southfield and Maple and Chester – Use existing data recently collected and re-count data for the three lane conversion in mid-December. 
• South Glenhurst/Larchlea/Pleasant – Count all turning traffic (both into and out of the street) between Maple and Lincoln. This will be conducted on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday between the hours of 4 and 6 PM. Counts will occur in mid to late September. 
• Chesterfield/Pilgrim – Count all turning traffic (both into and out of the street) between Maple and Quarton. This will be conducted on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday between the hours of 4 and 6 PM. Counts will occur in mid to late September. 
• Baldwin – Count all turns into and out of the street. This will be conducted on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday between the hours of 4 and 6 PM. Counts will occur mid to late September. 
• Arlington/Shirley - Count all turning traffic (both into and out of thestreets) between Maple and Lincoln. This will be conducted on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday between the hours of 4 and 6 PM. A second “phase” for Arlington/Shirley is to record license plates as a measure of cut through traffic for this area given the nature of the streets. This phase will be conducted on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday between the hours of 4 and 6 PM. Counts will occur mid to late September.
• Lakepark - Count all turning traffic (both into and out of the streets) between Maple and Oak. This will be conducted on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday between the hours of 4 and 6 PM. Counts will occur mid to late September.

Travel Time Comparison:

During the morning, afternoon and evening peak traffic periods of a typical weekday, the City’s traffic consultant will conduct five travel time runs in each direction on Maple Road. The travel time data will be collected and analyzed consistent with accepted engineering practice. To be consistent, this will be conducted on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday. The survey will take place after Labor Day and be compared to Level of Service data collected in the future.

Accident Data:

Although traffic crashes may be less reliable given the short duration of the trial period based on accepted traffic engineering practices, this data will be collected and analyzed as well.

The public will have the opportunity to get used to the changes over the winter. In April 2016, more traffic data will be collected with the modifications in place. Comparisons between the data before and after will be reviewed, and the City Commission will then have the opportunity to decide on whether to conclude or continue the trial to ensure the reviews and concerns have been adequately addressed. 

A secondary sewer improvement project is also planned for this corridor in the spring of 2016.  The City hopes to make relatively minor changes to the sewer system that will help direct more storm water flow to the Rouge River, in an ongoing effort to keep sewage treatment costs down.  This project will be coordinated with the resurfacing of West Maple Road.

For more information, download the West Maple Road Steering Committee Report and view the Multi-Modal Transportation Board's Minutes and Agendas page.

Project Rendering:	Actual Photo:

Learn about the 2018 Old Woodward Reconstruction Project

View Project Updates  from the 2018 Old Woodward Reconstruction Project 
Learn about Pave the Way Shopper Incentives offered during Construction #PavetheWayBham

Project Overview

In 2013, the City began to address the aging infrastructure in the core of the Central Business District with portions of Pierce Street from Maple to Merrill and Merrill Street from Pierce to Old Woodward. In 2016,  Hamilton Avenue was reconstructed from Old Woodward to Woodward Avenue. These projects included new water lines, sewer lines and roads. In 2018, efforts continued in the Central Business District into larger areas involving both Old Woodward and Maple. These areas had some of the oldest water and sewer lines in the City, as well as a streetscape that was on a different grade than the road.  Much of the old infrastructure was installed in the 1940s and had exceeded its useful life.

The planned phases are outlined in the graphic (see right). The 2018 Old Woodward Reconstruction project addressed the infrastructure needs in that area.  Upgrades included new larger water lines to improve water pressure,  consolidation of sewer lines to improve flow capacity and reliability, removal of the double curb in certain areas, enhanced crosswalk accessibility to comply with modern ADA standards, removal of brick pavers and integration of modern streetscape standards. To address failing conditions, a complete road infrastructure project has been planned in phases over the next several years to further address the infrastructure replacement needs for the downtown.

We recognize this work, while necessary, will be disruptive as it occurs. Efforts are planned to help mitigate this disruption during construction with such initiatives as promotional campaigns, downtown valet services and enhanced communications during construction among others. See below to learn about incentives offered during the 2018 project.

Paving the Way to a More Beautiful Downtown

While Old Woodward received important infrastructure upgrades, the Birmingham Shopping District made sure it was “business as usual” for everyone by offering the following great perks:
 
Valet Parking
The Birmingham Shopping District offered FREE Two-Hour Valet Parking (then $5 for each additional hour), Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m at four locations in downtown Birmingham.

Birmingham Bonus Bucks (BBB) 
The Birmingham Shopping District offered shoppers an opportunity to submit their receipts from eligible merchants and restaurants to receive Birmingham Bonus Bucks, which were used like cash at participating BSD businesses.

Birmingham Construction Art Contest
Art students, enthusiasts, professionals and BSD businesses enhanced the construction barricades and added something special for those walking throughout town during construction. The community voted for their favorite art panel, which was displayed in the downtown area for all to see and enjoy.

2018 Project Media Coverage

Watch the Old Woodward Reconstruction Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on August 11, 2018.



BSD Executive Director Ingrid Tighe and Katie Ray Johnston (owner of Sundance Shoes) talked about Birmingham's grand reopening and the Day On The Town event held on August 11, 2018.



Channel 4's coverage on May 8, 2018:




Project Updates from the 2018 Old Woodward Reconstruction Project

August 6, 2018, - Download the August 6 construction project update.
August 2, 2018- Download the August 2 construction project update.
July 27, 2018- Project reaches 95% completion! Download the July 27 construction project update.
July 20, 2018 - Download the July 20 construction project update.
July 13, 2018 - Project reaches 80% completion! Download the July 13, 2018 construction project update.
July 10, 2018 - Download the July 10 construction project update.
July 3, 2018 - Please note that eastbound Brown at the Old Woodward intersection is now open to through traffic.
July 2, 2018 - Download the July 2 construction project update.
June 29, 2018 - Download the June 29 construction project update.
June 22, 2018- Project Reaches 75% completion! Download the June 22, 2018 construction project update.
June 18, 2018 - Download the June 18 construction project update.
June 15, 2018 - Download the June 15 construction project update.
June 13, 2018 -Download the June 13 construction project update. Brown St. to close temporarily starting June 14. For a map showing the closing and alternate routes, follow the June 13 link.
June 12, 2018 - Project reaches 60% completion - Read more in the June 12, 2018 project update.
June 8, 2018 - Download the June 8 construction project update.
June 7, 2018 -Download the June 7 construction project update with information about a temporary closure of Brown Street on June 8.
June 4, 2018- Download the June 4 construction project update.
June 1, 2018- Download the June 1 construction project update.
May 25, 2018 - Download the May 25 construction project update.
May 24, 2018 - Download the May 24 construction project update.
May 21, 2018- Download the May 21 construction project update.
May 18, 2018- Download the May 18 construction project update.
May 11, 2018 - Download the May 11 construction update.
May 7, 2018 - Download a construction update with some of the anticipated work for this week. 
May 4, 2018 - Download the latest information from the May 4 construction update, regarding water shutoffs planned in the construction area.
May 3, 2018 Afternoon- Download the latest information from the May 3 afternoon updates regarding water shutoffs in the construction area.
May 3, 2018 -Download the May 3 construction update, with information on the Eastbound Maple shutdown continuing until Friday, May 11, 2018.
May 1, 2018 - Download the May 1 construction update which details plans for connecting buildings to the new water main.
April 30, 2018 -Download the April 30 construction update.
April 27, 2018- Download the April 27 construction update.
April 25, 2018- Download the April 25 construction update.
April 24, 2018 -Download the April 24 construction update.
April 23, 2018 - The fifth week of the Old Woodward Reconstruction Project is underway. Download a construction update with some of the anticipated work for this week. 
April 22, 2018 -Please note contractors are continuing underground utility work at Old Woodward and Maple. The intersection and traffic along Maple will remain closed on Monday, April 23.
April 20, 2018 - Download a construction update which details plans for the upcoming weekend.
April 16, 2018 -The fourth week of the Old Woodward Reconstruction Project is underway. Download a construction update with some of the anticipated work highlights for this week.
April 13, 2018-5:30 p.m.  -Crews continue to make repairs to the broken water main that resulted in a temporary water shutoff this afternoon (Friday, April 13), affecting businesses around E. Maple between Old Woodward and Woodward. Due to the complexity of the repair work, it is anticipated that water service could be restored between 6:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m. tonight (4-13-18). The City thanks you for your patience as it works to solve this problem as soon as possible.
April 13, 2018 - 4:30 p.m. - It's been a productive third week on the Old Woodward Reconstruction Project. Contractors continued digging with work being done on new sewers, gas main installation and fiber optic connections. In addition, overhead traffic signals at Maple and Old Woodward as well as at Brown and Old Woodward are in the process of being removed. Temporary signage urging drivers to watch out for pedestrians is being placed at the respective intersections. Pedestrians are reminded to be cautious and alert when crossing intersections in or near the construction zone.

With heavy rain expected on both weekend days, 
Saturday (4-1418) and Sunday (4-15-18), the intersection of Old Woodward and Maple will stay OPEN this weekend, and not be closed as originally planned. Also starting this weekend, Saturday (4-14-18) and Sunday (4-15-18), the City will begin providing FREE parking in all City parking structures on Saturdays in addition to the regular free parking that has been a mainstay on Sundays in Birmingham. The public is encouraged to visit downtown and support the city merchants during the reconstruction of Old Woodward, anticipated to take approximately four months to complete.

April 13, 2018 -Due to an unexpected emergency this afternoon (Friday, 4-13-18), there will be a temporary water shutoff affecting businesses around E. Maple between Old Woodward and Woodward Ave. Crews are on scene making repairs at this time. As of 2:30 p.m., it is anticipated the water shutoff will last about one-two hours. Maple Rd. will remain open to traffic. The City thanks you for your patience as it works to make this repair.

April 9, 2018  -The third week of the Old Woodward Reconstruction Project is underway. Download a construction update with some of the anticipated work highlights for this week.
April 6, 2018 -The strong start for the Old Woodward Reconstruction Project continued this week. Here are some of the highlights from week two, and a look ahead to next week: 

• Demolition and removal of concrete on Old Woodward is largely completed.
• The installation of a gas main north of Maple will continue into early next week, with connections to nearby buildings to be made.
• The westbound Maple Road detour, starting at Park St. and circling around the construction zone, goes into effect Monday, April 9, 2018. The westbound detour will remain in place the majority of the project. Parking options on the detour include the valet station at Hamilton near Ferndale (first two hours free), the Park Street parking structure and the N. Old Woodward parking structure. Eastbound Maple remains open to through traffic.
• The intersection of Brown and Old Woodward will be closed to through traffic Saturday, April 7 and Sunday, April 8 for the installation of a sewer in the middle of the street. It is anticipated the work will completed by Sunday evening. Pedestrians will be able to cross the street at designated areas.
• In addition, on Monday, April 9, westbound Brown will be closed as contractors prepare for upcoming, necessary pavement work. Eastbound Brown will remain open. A detour will be set-up for through traffic using Woodward, Lincoln and Pierce.
• On Saturday, April 14 and Sunday, April 15, the intersection of Maple at Old Woodward will be closed in order to allow for difficult underground work to be done. 

Stay Informed: Learn more about the project at www.bhamgov.org/downtowninfrastructure. Receive real time updates by email or text by signing up for an e-notify system for the project at www.bhamgov.org/enotify.

Businesses are OPEN during construction and need your support. Enjoy free valet, Birmingham Bonus Bucks, an Art Contest and more!

 

April 5, 2018 -As part of the Old Woodward Reconstruction Project,  Consumers Energy has installed a new gas main at Old Woodward and Willits this afternoon (4-5-18). As part of the process, the new gas main is connected to the old gas main. Natural gas is introduced to the pipe that will result in a strong smell of natural gas for a short, undetermined period of time, expected to occur at about 3:45 p.m. this afternoon. The Birmingham Fire Department will be on scene during this event as a precaution. The City thanks you for your patience as part of the reconstruction of Old Woodward Ave.

April 2, 2018 - The second week (4-2-18 to 4-7-18) of the Old Woodward Reconstruction Project is off to a strong start. Digging is underway as crews are removing concrete throughout the construction zone. It is also anticipated that contractors will be doing underground infrastructure related work for most of the week, north of Maple.

Last week (3-26-18 to 3-31-18), contractors milled and removed pavement on Old Woodward from Oakland to Brown. In addition, sewer lining work was done at night to minimize inconvenience to the public. Real time updates on the project are available by email or text by signing up to city’s enotify system at www.bhamgov.org/enotify.  The project is anticipated to take approximately four months.

 
 
March 23, 2018

The transformative project to reconstruct underground infrastructure and enhance above ground streetscape on Old Woodward between Oakland and Brown will start on Monday, March 26, 2018 with the closure of Old Woodward.

Among the initial activities to occur on Monday will be:

• Setting up road closure barricades and advanced warning signs
• Marking pavement removals
• Mobilizing equipment and materials

Other activities anticipated to occur next week, weather permitting, include: milling of the asphalt surface and concrete road removal. In addition, crews are expected to conduct sewer lining work along the east sidewalk of Old Woodward as well at the intersection of Old Woodward and Maple. This work will be done in the evening between 8:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. in order to be as minimally disruptive as possible. It is expected the sewer lining work will take about four days. The City thanks you for your patience as it executes years of planning over the next four months to reconstruct Old Woodward for decades to come. 

2018 Downtown Reconstruction Project Detour Map (shows routes, parking, valet locations)
Download a printable version of the construction detour map (shown below) and informational flier which was released March 23, 2018. Feel free to distribute to your friends and family.



Join us for a Construction Kick-Off Celebration!

What: Old Woodward Reconstruction Kick-Off Celebration
Where: Old Woodward, just north of Maple
When: Wednesday, March 28th at 4:30 p.m.

Join us as we celebrate the beginning of the Old Woodward Reconstruction project. Bring your family and enjoy the following activities:

• Selfie Spot - construction cut-out photo opportunity!
• Climb aboard a City construction vehicle from the Department of Public Services (DPS)
• Explore a police car and fire engine
• Children will receive free hard hats (while supplies last)
• Attendees will enjoy refreshments such as Rocky Road Cupcakes from the Cupcake Station!

We look forward to seeing you and your family on Wednesday, March 28th at 4:30 p.m.!

March 19, 2018 - Safety Barrier Installation Begins

Please note due to pleasant weather conditions, safety barriers are currently being assembled a couple days ahead of schedule. The road will remain open all week, with projected closures beginning Monday, March 26th.

 

March 19, 2018 - Project Map Released

The City released the Old Woodward Reconstruction Project Master Map below, showing the following elements: construction zone, open sidewalks, plywood dividers, pedestrian crossings, parking structures, free 2-hour valet parking stations, the valet route and traffic flow. Download the map here.

Also, please note sewer lining work originally planned for this week will now take place next week, March 26 - 30 from 8:00 p.m.-7:00 a.m. Crews will be lining a long sewer along the east sidewalk of Old Woodward between Oakland and Brown. Similar work will also be done on a shorter sewer line along Maple Rd. during the same overnight hours. Weather  permitting, the work is expected to take about four days. 



March 13, 2018 - Video discussion of project plans and details

Birmingham City Manager Joe Valentine and BSD Executive Director Ingrid Tighe appeared on "Making a Difference at the Community House" with William Seklar, the President and CEO of The Community House. They spoke in depth about the upcoming Old Woodward Reconstruction Project, with details about below ground infrastructure improvements, above ground enhancements, the Pave the Way program, incentives for shoppers and plans to communicate the message that downtown is open for business during Old Woodward Reconstruction. Watch the video online here.

March 12, 2018 - News articles highlighting project plans published

The Old Woodward Reconstruction project is set to begin within the next few weeks. It is projected that safety barriers will be assembled on Wednesday, March 21st, and the road is projected to close on Monday, March 26th. Thank you to the Hometownlife Observer & Eccentric for their article detailing the project kickoff timeline, incentives for shoppers, and upgrades that will transform the underground functionality and the above-ground aesthetics of downtown Birmingham for years to come. Please be sure to look at the new rendering of what Old Woodward will look like at the top of this page. We are paving the way for a more beautiful downtown!

Please note sewer lining work originally planned for this week will now take place next week, March 19 - 23 from 8:00 p.m.-7:00 a.m. Crews will be lining a long sewer along the east sidewalk of Old Woodward between Oakland and Brown. Similar work will also be done on a shorter sewer line along Maple Rd. during the same overnight hours. Weather  permitting, the work is expected to take about four days.

March 6, 2018 - How to sign up for project updates and stay informed

The city is targeting the last two weeks of March for the start of the Old Woodward Reconstruction project. Reminder: Receive regular updates about this project by signing up for the "Old Woodward Reconstruction General Information" group at www.bit.ly/bhamnews. Residents are also encouraged to sign up for an e-notify system for the project at www.bhamgov.org/enotify to get real time updates by email or text.

March 2, 2018 - Sewer lining work planned

OLD WOODWARD AVE. SEWER LINING WORK

Sewer lining work in coordination with the upcoming Old Woodward Reconstruction Project is anticipated to take place the week of March 12- 16 from 8:00 p.m.-7:00 a.m. Crews will be lining a long sewer along the east sidewalk of Old Woodward between Oakland and Brown. Similar work will also be done on a shorter sewer line along Maple Rd. during the same overnight hours. Weather  permitting, the work is expected to take about four days. By doing this work now, the City is anticipating it will have to do less digging when construction begins on Old Woodward later in March.  If you have questions or concerns, please contact the City Engineering Dept. at (248) 530-1840.

February 19, 2018 - Structural Building inspection video planned

With the reconstruction of Old Woodward Ave. approaching, the City is in the final stages of its complimentary Structural Building Inspection by Video initiative. More than half the businesses in the project area (Willits St./Oakland Ave. to Brown along Old Woodward), has received the complimentary video inspection by a city contractor prior to the start of the Old Woodward Reconstruction Project. If you are interested in receiving this service, you are encouraged to contact the City Engineering Dept. as soon as possible at (248) 530-1840.

Informational Meeting for Businesses

A Merchant Meeting was held on Thursday, March 8, 2018 at Be Well Lifestryle Center, located at: 750 S Old Woodward Ave, Birmingham, MI . If you were unable to attend the meeting, view the March 8, 2018 Merchant Meeting Presentation. The City, in conjunction with the Birmingham Shopping District (BSD), would like to thank the merchants and stakeholders who attended Merchant Meetings held on 2-8-18. If you were not able to attend the February meeting, you may view the Merchant Meeting PowerPoint presentation for 2-8-18.  The next Merchant Meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, April 11, 2018, at  Vinotecca Wine Bar and Restaurant 210 S. Old Woodward Ave. in Birmingham from 8:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m.



Past Events & Documents

The City of Birmingham in conjunction with the Birmingham Shopping District (BSD) held a Merchant Meeting on 1-11-18 at the Community House in Birmingham. If you were unable to attend that meeting, you may view the Merchant Meeting PowerPoint presentation for 1-11-18.   Also in January, the City of Birmingham City Commission approved the recommendation of a contractor for the 2018 Old Woodward Avenue Reconstruction Project at the commission meeting held on Monday, Jan. 8, 2018.

In October, and the City and the BSD held a fourth Meeting Meeting to discuss the latest planning for the Old Woodward Ave. Reconstruction Project on Oct. 27, 2017. If you were unable to attend the session, you may view the Merchant Meeting Oct. 27, 2017 power point presentation.

The City of Birmingham held a third informational meeting for businesses in Downtown Birmingham on April 27, 2017 to provide an update on plans for the reconstruction of North Old Woodward. If you missed the meeting, you may view the informative power point presentation: Merchant Meeting, April 27, 2017.

The City of Birmingham held its second informational meeting on February 28, 2017 for businesses to provide an update on plans for the reconstruction of Old Woodward. The City reviewed the final plans and plan logistics for the project along with known timelines and features for future ongoing communications. To view the presentation, go to: Informational Meeting for Businesses - Feb. 28, 2017. On November 15, 2016, a meeting was held to provide merchants, business owners, and building owners information about this project, with an emphasis on how business access will be maintained and helped during the project.  Presentations were prepared from both the Engineering Dept. and the Birmingham Shopping District.  A link to these presentations are listed below.

• Merchants meeting Nov. 15, 2016 presentation
• Birmingham Shopping District presentation

Businesses can sign up to receive updates regarding the project by signing up for the "Old Woodward Reconstruction News for Businesses" group at www.bit.ly/bhamnews. 

Stay Informed: To receive regular updates on the project, sign up for the "Old Woodward Reconstruction General Information" group at www.bit.ly/bhamnews.



Important Links:

• Old Woodward Final Plans
• Old Woodward Supplemental Design

You are encouraged to revisit this webpage for regular updates on this project as it evolves over the coming months and years. The continued investment in the City’s infrastructure will ensure Birmingham remains a viable and desirable location for many years to come.

April 13, 2018

Due to an unexpected emergency this afternoon (Friday, 4-13-18), there will be a temporary water shutoff affecting businesses around E. Maple between Old Woodward and Woodward Ave. Crews are on scene making repairs at this time. As of 2:30 p.m., it is anticipated the water shutoff will last about one-two hours. Maple Rd. will remain open to traffic. The City thanks you for your patience as it works to make this repair.

• Project Overview & General Information
• Project Renderings
• News for Businesses
• Project Updates

Maple Road is OPEN!

After a busy fall of construction, the project to transform Maple Road is now complete. Maple Road’s improvements allow it to manage traffic more effectively; provide an attractive experience for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists; and serve the community for decades to come!

With the project now complete, residents and visitors will experience new above-ground amenities such as wider sidewalks, new tree boxes, improved landscaping and mobile device charging stations. The project increased pedestrian and vehicle safety on Maple Road by adding a mid-block pedestrian crossing between Old Woodward and Woodward, and reconfiguring the Southfield intersection to decrease accidents. Combined with the new underground infrastructure improvements, such as new sewers, new water mains and other hardware, downtown Birmingham is more modern, walkable and structurally sound.

The City wants to thank its merchants, downtown patrons and residents for your patience and understanding throughout the project. With the changes now in place, Birmingham is ready for the future and invites you to come and experience it for yourself.

Project Overview & General Information

In 2013, the City began to address the aging infrastructure in the core of the Central Business District with portions of Pierce Street from Maple to Merrill and Merrill Street from Pierce to Old Woodward. In 2016,  Hamilton Avenue was reconstructed from Old Woodward to Woodward Avenue. These projects included new water lines, sewer lines and roads. In 2018, efforts continued in the Central Business District into larger areas involving both Old Woodward and Maple. These areas had some of the oldest water and sewer lines in the City, as well as a streetscape that was on a different grade than the road.  Much of the old infrastructure was installed in the 1940s and had exceeded its useful life. Learn about the 2018 Old Woodward Reconstruction Project here.

The downtown infrastructure improvements are scheduled in phases outlined in the graphic (see right). With the 2018 project complete, plans are underway for the 2020 Maple Road Reconstruction Project. The project will stretch from Chester to Woodward Ave. as well as include safety improvements to the Southfield Rd. and maple Rd. intersection.

Similar to the award winning Old Woodward Reconstruction Project in 2018, Maple in 2020 will result in new underground infrastructure, wider sidewalks and much more. 

Design features will include:

• All of the new sidewalks will be widened by at least three feet, providing new spaces for raised planter beds and improved landscaping. Bumpouts at each intersection will improve crosswalks for pedestrians. East of Old Woodward Ave., a mid-block crosswalk and landscape feature will also be added. Enhancements will include exposed aggregate concrete, granite bench seating areas, new street lights, and cell phone charging stations. 
• All traffic signals along the corridor will be upgraded to the mast arm style used last year on Old Woodward Ave., providing a clean, coordinated look. 
• Improved on-street accessible parking spaces, each served with an individual sidewalk ramp to improve conditions for the disabled.

Another facet of this project will be the safety improvements for the Southfield Rd. and Maple Rd. intersection. The enhancements will include relocating the intersection about 25 feet to the west, toward a City park, allowing turns to and from Southfield Rd. to be made safer, thereby reducing the possibility of car crashes.

Similar to the messaging for the Old Woodward Reconstruction Project in 2018, you are encouraged to sign up for the Maple Road Reconstruction group to get real time updates from the City throughout the project. You can sign up for the updates through the City's Stay in Touch feature on the City website on the following link: bit.ly/bhamnews. Updates will also be posted on the City website as well as on all of the City's social media platforms. 

We recognize this work, while necessary, will be disruptive as it occurs. Incentives will continue during the upcoming phases to mitigate this disruption. Learn more about the project by downloading a quick reference Fact Sheet with information regarding the project area and timeline, key elements and improvements, the bypass routes and more.

Project Renderings





News for Businesses

View a quick reference Fact Sheet for your convenience. This document includes the project area and timeline, key elements and improvements, and the bypass routes. Sign up for the Maple Road Reconstruction Business Information group at bit.ly/bhamnews.

Project Updates

October 31, 2020 Project Update
October 23, 2020 Project Update
October 16, 2020 Project Update
October 9, 2020 Project Update
October 5, 2020 Project Update
September 25, 2020 Project Update
September 22, 2020 Project Update  
September 18, 2020 Project Update
September 11, 2020 Project Update
September 4, 2020 Project Update
August 31, 2020 Project Update
August 21, 2020 Project Update
August 14, 2020 Project Update
August 7, 2020 Project Update
July 31, 2020 Project Update
July 24, 2020 Project Update
July 17, 2020 Project Update
July 10, 2020 Project Update
July 2, 2020 Project Update
June 26, 2020 Project Update
June 19, 2020 Project Update
June 12, 2020 Project Update
June 5, 2020 Project Update
May 29, 2020 Project Update
May 22, 2020 Project Update 
May 15, 2020 Project Update
May 8, 2020 Project Update
April 30, 2020 Project Reminder
April 24, 2020 Project Update
April 17, 2020 Project Update
April 14, 2020 Press Release 
March 20, 2020 Project Update 
March 13, 2020 Project Update

Birmingham N.O.W. Information Session Recap

If you were not able to attend the Birmingham N.O.W. Information Session on Tuesday, 7-16-19 at the Birmingham-Bloomfield Art Center (BBAC), the presentation educated the audience on an array of topics concerning the proposed project including parking demand, the public and private elements, public benefits, financing, and the history of the project.

Birmingham N.O.W. Newsletter

Get the Facts regarding the City of Birmingham North Old Woodward (N.O.W.) Parking Structure Project in this newsletter that includes information on project financing, history and other details.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Watch footage from the Birmingham City Commission's Special Meeting on Monday, July 1, 2019.



On August 6th, voters will be asked to consider a bond proposal for the demolition of the North Old Woodward Parking Structure, the construction of a new parking structure and the extension of Bates Street to North Old Woodward, now known as the Birmingham N.O.W. Project.  Take a look to learn more.

Birmingham City Commission Workshop 3.26.19 from City of Birmingham on Vimeo.

Media Coverage

• July 29, 2019 - Big bucks (and free beer) in Birmingham bond campaign
• July 29, 2019 - Darkajian lawsuit against Birmingham dismissed
• July 29, 2019 - Birmingham faces lawsuit, accused of violating constitutional rights
• July 28, 2019 - Aug. 6 vote to decide fate of Birmingham project proves divisive
• July 26, 2019 - Birmingham voters to decide parking proposal, ultimate fate of development
• July 23, 2019 - Birmingham to vote on $57.4 million parking structure bond
• July 23, 2019 - Citizens sue Birmingham over free speech denial
• July 22, 2019 - Two barred from speaking at public meeting sue Birmingham
• July 21, 2019 - $57.4 million parking bond plan stirs up war of words in Birmingham
• July 18, 2019 - Video reveals fiery exchange at Birmingham city commission meeting
• July 17, 2019 - Baller violated campaign act, receives warning 
• July 16, 2019 - State finds no violation of campaign finance act in Birmingham
• July 15, 2019 - Birmingham meeting gets heated over parking garage plans, public comment rights
• July 15, 2019 - Critics of massive Birmingham development silenced at city meeting 
• July 14, 2019 - Baller election complaint against city dismissed 
• July 11, 2019 - 2 say Birmingham officials blocked them from speaking
• July 9, 2019 - Birmingham accused of campaign violations leading up to parking structure vote
• July 9, 2019 - Citizen activist alleges city election violations
• July 3, 2019 - Birmingham city manager gives explainer on August ballot proposal
• June 27, 2019 - Birmingham Planning Board approves preliminary site plan for 5-story RH furniture store
• June 21, 2019 - Information meeting on Woodward Bates project
• May 14, 2019 - Voters to decide $57.4M bond for parking structure
• May 10, 2019 - Parking bond vote okayed for Woodward Bates
• May 8, 2019 - Birmingham to ask voters in August for $57.4M bond for parking structure
• May 7, 2019 - Key bond question for downtown Birmingham development heads to voters
• May 6, 2019 - RH to anchor Woodward Bates project in city
• May 5, 2019 - RH eyes Birmingham store if N. Old Woodward Project gets green light
• April 28, 2019 - Parking expansion will help Birmingham's future
• April 24, 2019 - $133 million development plan in Birmingham inches forward with financing, approvals pending
• April 23, 2019 - Birmingham's massive Bates Street development project hinges on public approval 
• April 2, 2019 - New parking garage, multiple mixed-use buildings and housing proposed for downtown Birmingham
• April 1, 2019 - Massive $133M Birmingham project adds parking, housing, retail, extends Bates Street

Segments of N. Glenhurst Dr., Raynale St., Brookwood, and Kenwood Ct. will receive upgrades to their water and sewer systems, followed by new concrete pavement. This section of the neighborhood, directly north of Quarton Elementary School, will be impacted for a three- to four-month period. The streets will stay open to local traffic only during the first phase of the project. During paving, the streets will be closed to all traffic. The City appreciates your patience as it works to complete these improvements as fast as possible.



Interested parties receive electronic updates about this project by signing up for the Quarton Lake Subdivision Reconstruction Project Constant Contact group at www.bit.ly/bhamnews. Below are a list of updates sent out regarding this project:

project announcement Quarton Ph 1

2021 Grant Street Construction

When:
DiPonio Contracting, Inc. started construction on Grant Street in late-May.

Where:

• 14 Mile to Bird - Complete road reconstruction, water main and storm drain replacements.
• Bird to Humphrey - Miscellaneous paving repairs.
• Humphrey to East Lincoln - Complete road reconstruction, combined sewer, water main and storm drain replacements.
• St. James Park - Combined sewer installation to Floyd.

Weekly Construction Update: 
July 30, 2021 Update 

Questions:

During construction there will be a City Inspector and DiPonio’s Foreman onsite to respond to your immediate concerns (i.e., dust, mud, driveway/roadway accessibility). In most instances items can be addressed with “field” personnel. For everyone's safety please do not enter an active work construction area and do not approach workers without first getting their attention from a safe distance. Please maintain social distance of six feet or more and adhere to COVID-19 safety protocols.

Stay Informed:

Sign up for the Grant Street Construction Project Constant Contact group at www.bit.ly/bhamnews for project updates and announcements. 

2021 Asphalt Resurfacing Project
The Asphalt Resurfacing Project from the 21/22 season that started in 2021 will finish
this spring. The project includes multiple street sections that will receive pavement
resurfacing to extend the pavement life cycle. The contractor for this project is Pamar
Enterprises, with Al’s Asphalt as their paving subcontractor. The streets with planned
work include:

• Watkins, W. Brown to W. Frank & Hanna to Wallace – mill and resurface pavement.
• Stanley, Hanna to Wallace & W. Lincoln to 14 Mile – mill and resurface pavement,
with extension of the curb island at W. Lincoln to reduce the length of the crosswalk.
• Latham, Northlawn to 14 Mile – mill and resurface pavement, with new curbs at the
intersections with Norfolk, Worthington, Southlawn and Wakefield constructed along
new alignments with reduced radii to help with traffic calming in the neighborhood.
• Fairway, from Pleasant to 600 ft east of Pleasant – replace aging water main, patch
trenches and excavations, and mill and resurface remainder of pavement.
• Pavement repairs at Parking Lot #5 (behind North Old Woodward Parking Structure)

The 21/22 Sidewalk repairs project is focused this year on Residential Area 4 and
Downtown Area 1B of the City’s Sidewalk Repair Program. Area 4 extends in general
from Pierce Street to Southfield Rd, and Maple Rd to 14 Mile Road. Area 1B of the
downtown generally extends from Old Woodward to Woodward, from Maple Road to
Ravine. The contractor for this project is J.B. Contracting. Work on sidewalk ramp
upgrades for ADA compliance was completed in the fall of 2021, and remaining work will
be completed in the spring of 2022.