BERLIN TOWNSHIP, Mich. — As the long-term and extensive reconstruction project on I-96 north of Lake Odessa continues, Michigan transportation officials are reiterating the importance of following proper protocols when navigating construction zones. With heavy traffic expected to persist for the duration of the project, the discussion around efficient traffic management has reignited—particularly regarding the use of the “zipper merge” technique.
Officials from the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and the Michigan State Police are urging drivers to adopt the zipper merge, a process where vehicles use both lanes in a construction zone and take turns merging into one lane. The technique has been shown to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow, but its success depends largely on how well drivers follow the procedure.
John Richards, a spokesperson for MDOT’s Grand Region, explained that adhering to the zipper merge can significantly reduce the long backups that are common in these situations. “When it says ‘Use both lanes and take turns,’ we mean it. If you’ve got 1,000 cars in one lane versus 500 cars in two lanes, that’s going to decrease the backups,” Richards said.
Despite these recommendations, many drivers continue to resist the zipper merge. According to Michigan State Police Lieutenant Michelle Robinson, the resistance often stems from frustration, with some drivers merging early or blocking others from merging. “It is a more effective way of getting more traffic through the zipper merge than if everybody backs up like a bunch of baby ducks,” Robinson said.
MDOT officials are particularly concerned about what they call “vigilante lane blockers.” These drivers attempt to block others from merging, often leading to unnecessary congestion and, in some cases, aggressive driving. “It’s insane why people think they can block traffic and take it upon themselves to do traffic control. It’s lunacy,” Richards said. “That’s against the law. You cannot block traffic just because you feel like someone is cutting in front of you.”
Beyond the zipper merge, authorities are also pleading for drivers to exercise greater caution and focus when approaching construction zones. The recent fatal crash near Clarksville serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of distracted driving. Preliminary evidence indicates that a large truck involved in the crash did not brake before colliding with stopped traffic, resulting in a fatality. Richards emphasized the importance of paying attention while driving. “People speeding, tailgating, eating food while driving—it’s all a choice. And it’s a choice that can be deadly,” he said.
In an effort to prevent such incidents, authorities are also encouraging drivers to plan their routes ahead of time. “Individuals need to plan their trips instead of entering that construction zone then going on their phone and maps to get around it,” Lt. Robinson advised. “They can plan ahead and go around that, take an exit before the zone starts, and that makes them a lot safer.”
With the ongoing construction on I-96 expected to last for some time, both MDOT and state police are hoping that more drivers will embrace the zipper merge and adopt safer driving habits. For those unsure about the best routes to take or looking to avoid the work zones altogether, MDOT’s website and various mapping apps offer real-time traffic information that can help drivers make safer, more informed decisions.
As the project progresses, officials are hopeful that with increased awareness and compliance with traffic protocols, the construction zone on I-96 will be less disruptive to drivers and safer for everyone on the road.
