New traffic signal to be activated near Muskegon

Published in Automotive and Transportation on Wednesday, July 16th 2025 at 0:43 GMT by MLive
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Ongoing construction will maintain lane closures on the busy Muskegon Township roadway through September.

In Muskegon County, Michigan, a significant update to local infrastructure is set to take effect with the activation of a new traffic signal at a busy intersection near the city of Muskegon. This development aims to improve traffic flow, enhance safety, and address longstanding concerns from residents and commuters about the challenges of navigating this particular area. The intersection in question, located at the junction of Apple Avenue and US-31, has been a focal point for traffic congestion and safety issues due to the high volume of vehicles passing through daily, as well as its proximity to key commercial and residential zones. The introduction of this new traffic signal represents a proactive step by local authorities to mitigate these problems and create a smoother, safer driving experience for all road users.

Apple Avenue, also known as M-46, serves as a critical east-west corridor in the Muskegon area, connecting suburban neighborhoods with the bustling commercial districts along US-31, a major north-south highway that runs through West Michigan. This intersection is particularly notable for its role as a gateway to various shopping centers, restaurants, and other businesses that attract significant traffic throughout the day. However, the heavy flow of vehicles, combined with the absence of a fully operational traffic signal until now, has often resulted in delays, near-misses, and frustration for drivers attempting to make turns or merge into traffic. Local residents have frequently voiced concerns about the difficulty of accessing US-31 from Apple Avenue, especially during peak hours when traffic volumes are at their highest. Delivery drivers, commuters, and families alike have reported challenges in navigating the intersection, with some opting to take alternative routes to avoid the congestion altogether.

The decision to install a new traffic signal at this location was not made overnight. It came after years of observation, traffic studies, and community input, which collectively highlighted the need for a more robust traffic management solution. The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), in collaboration with Muskegon County officials, identified the intersection as a priority area for improvement due to its history of minor accidents and consistent reports of traffic bottlenecks. While major crashes have been relatively rare at this specific spot, the potential for more serious incidents has always loomed large, given the high speeds at which vehicles travel along US-31 and the complexity of turning movements required at the intersection. By introducing a modern traffic signal system, authorities hope to reduce the likelihood of collisions, improve the predictability of traffic patterns, and provide clearer guidance for drivers entering or exiting the highway.

The new traffic signal is designed with advanced technology to optimize traffic flow and adapt to real-time conditions. Unlike older systems that operate on fixed timers, this signal incorporates sensors and adaptive timing mechanisms that can adjust the length of green, yellow, and red phases based on the volume of vehicles detected at any given moment. For instance, during rush hour, the signal may prioritize traffic on US-31 to prevent backups on the highway, while still allowing sufficient time for vehicles on Apple Avenue to make their turns. During quieter periods, the system can shift its focus to ensure minimal waiting times for all directions. This dynamic approach is expected to significantly reduce delays and improve overall efficiency at the intersection, benefiting not only daily commuters but also commercial traffic that relies on timely access to the area’s business hubs.

Beyond its technical features, the installation of the traffic signal also reflects a broader commitment by local and state authorities to address infrastructure needs in growing communities like Muskegon. As the region continues to develop, with new businesses opening and residential areas expanding, the demand for safe and efficient transportation networks has become increasingly urgent. Apple Avenue, in particular, has seen a steady rise in traffic over the past decade, driven by both population growth and the area’s appeal as a retail destination. Without upgrades to key intersections like this one, the risk of gridlock and safety hazards would only continue to grow. The new signal, therefore, serves as a tangible example of how targeted investments in infrastructure can make a meaningful difference in the day-to-day lives of residents.

Community response to the upcoming activation of the traffic signal has been largely positive, though not without some reservations. Many drivers and local business owners have expressed relief at the prospect of smoother traffic flow and reduced wait times, particularly those who rely on the intersection for their daily routines or customer access. For instance, employees at nearby shopping centers have noted that the current lack of a signal often deters potential customers from visiting during busy periods, as the difficulty of navigating the intersection can be a significant deterrent. With the new signal in place, they anticipate an uptick in foot traffic and easier access for delivery vehicles. Similarly, parents in the area have highlighted the potential safety benefits for school buses and families traveling to and from nearby schools, as the signal will provide clearer right-of-way instructions and reduce the risk of accidents during drop-off and pick-up times.

However, some residents have raised questions about the timing of the signal’s activation and whether additional measures, such as turn lanes or pedestrian crossings, should have been included in the project. While the traffic signal addresses the primary issue of vehicle flow, critics argue that the intersection remains less accommodating for pedestrians and cyclists, who may still face challenges crossing the busy roads. Others have expressed concern about the potential for initial confusion as drivers adjust to the new signal, especially if the adaptive timing system results in unexpected changes to light cycles. To address these concerns, local officials have emphasized that the signal’s performance will be closely monitored in the weeks following its activation, with adjustments made as needed to ensure optimal operation. Public education campaigns may also be rolled out to familiarize drivers with the new system and encourage safe driving habits during the transition period.

The activation of the traffic signal is expected to mark a turning point for this key intersection, transforming it from a source of frustration into a more manageable and secure point of access. For the Muskegon community, this project is a reminder of the importance of proactive infrastructure planning in keeping pace with growth and change. While the signal alone may not solve every traffic-related issue in the area, it represents a critical step forward in addressing one of the most pressing concerns for local drivers. As the region looks to the future, similar initiatives may be needed at other high-traffic locations to ensure that Muskegon remains a safe and accessible place to live, work, and visit.

In the broader context of West Michigan’s transportation network, the new signal at Apple Avenue and US-31 also underscores the interconnected nature of local and regional traffic systems. US-31, as a major artery, plays a vital role in linking Muskegon to other parts of the state, including Grand Rapids and the Lake Michigan shoreline. Improvements at this intersection, therefore, have ripple effects that extend beyond the immediate vicinity, contributing to smoother travel for long-distance commuters and commercial haulers alike. By prioritizing safety and efficiency at key junctures like this one, state and local agencies are helping to build a more resilient and user-friendly road network for all of Michigan’s residents.

As the activation date approaches, anticipation is building among Muskegon-area drivers who are eager to experience the benefits of the new traffic signal firsthand. While change can often bring a period of adjustment, the long-term advantages of reduced congestion, enhanced safety, and improved access are expected to outweigh any temporary inconveniences. For now, the community waits with cautious optimism, hopeful that this upgrade will deliver on its promise to make one of Muskegon’s busiest intersections a safer and more efficient place for everyone.

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[ https://www.mlive.com/news/2025/07/new-traffic-signal-to-be-activated-near-muskegon.html ]

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