The massive Restore 94 reconstruction project entered a new phase this week as crews closed all entrance and exit ramps connecting Interstate 94 and the Southfield Freeway, a major traffic interchange serving western Wayne County.

The closures, which began Monday, are expected to remain in place for nearly a year, affecting motorists traveling through Dearborn Heights, Allen Park and surrounding communities.

Transportation officials said the shutdown of the busy interchange is likely to create significant traffic disruptions, particularly for travelers heading to and from Detroit Metropolitan Airport in Romulus.

According to project managers, all ramps at the I-94 and Southfield Freeway interchange will remain closed until May 2027 as part of the ongoing three-year Restore 94 reconstruction effort.

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is advising motorists to use Michigan Avenue or Telegraph Road as alternate routes to bypass the closed interchange. The detours are expected to increase traffic congestion along both major corridors, particularly through Dearborn and Dearborn Heights.

The Restore 94 project includes the reconstruction and rehabilitation of approximately 13 miles of Interstate 94 and several bridges spanning the freeway. The work extends from the Michigan Avenue interchange on the east to Interstate 275 on the west, passing through the communities of Dearborn, Melvindale, Allen Park, Dearborn Heights, Taylor and Romulus.

Construction will continue in phases over the coming years, with partial lane closures expected throughout the project. Transportation officials warn that drivers should anticipate delays and heavier-than-normal traffic, especially during peak travel periods.

The project is scheduled for completion in 2029 and carries an estimated cost of approximately $353 million, according to MDOT.

State officials say the investment is intended to improve roadway conditions, enhance safety and modernize one of Metro Detroit’s most heavily traveled transportation corridors.