A five-block section of Bridge Street, in Houghton, will be closed to through traffic starting Monday, June 22, through Friday, Aug. 21, between Baraga and Houghton avenues. Motorists are advised to us Second Street or Bridge Street as alternative routes. (Graphic provided)

HOUGHTON — Bridge Street will be closed to through traffic from June 22 through Aug. 21 for a full repaving project, according to a statement from the city of Houghton.

The work will take additional time because crews will remove the old pavement, complete gravel work, and place new pavement on top. This approach provides a much longer lasting surface compared to a simple overlay, and the city appreciates the community’s patience while the work is done carefully and correctly, the statement says.

The project also includes construction of a new sidewalk on the west side of Bridge Street between Edwards Avenue and Baraga Avenue. Once complete, the new sidewalk will close the final gap between Montezuma Avenue and Sharon Avenue, creating a continuous and safer walking route for students and residents.

Last July, the council approved a resolution for the MDOT Bridge Street Project contract. The project was set for construction during the summer but since the location is near the elementary school, it was decided to bid later in the year for the summer of 2026 while school is not in session.

With most of Bridge Street closed to through traffic, motorists will need to use alternative routes. Drivers who typically travel uphill or downhill on Bridge Street will need to use one of the parallel north-south streets. The intersections at Houghton Avenue near the bottom of the hill and at Jacker Avenue near the top will remain open for most of the project, allowing drivers to use Second Street or Dodge Street to go up or down the hill.

Residents who live on Bridge Street will be considered local traffic. The contractor will work directly with them to ensure they can travel to and from their homes throughout construction.

This project is partially funded by an MDOT Small Urban grant with matching funds from the City of Houghton. The City thanks everyone for their patience, flexibility, and understanding as this important infrastructure work moves forward.