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Contractors are expected to begin applying the top coat of asphalt to the improved segment of state highway south from the City of Lapeer to Pratt Road in Metamora Township.

"This is the final course of asphalt applied to the riding surface," said Davison Transportation Service Center Manager Mike Hemmingsen of the Michigan Department of Transportation. "We'll also be doing some drainage work and clean-up."

Motorists will begin to see contractors the end of April. Work is expected to begin early May and last about six weeks. The estimated 18,200 vehicles that drive the new portion of highway won't be routed off the road.

"We'll do one lane at a time," said Hemmingsen. "We'll have lane closures, but we won't be shifting traffic like before."

Drivers must slow down ongoing work.

"The speed will drop to 45 mph when workers are present," said Hemmingsen. "The purpose of that is not to slow down traffic when there is not an imminent danger to the workers or to traffic. Studies have shown dramatic changes in speed cause an increase in accidents. In order to keep a constant zone, we keep it at the posted limit except when workers are present."

The project marks the completion of the $20.1 million construction project that began in spring 2006. Though a design has been completed, there is still no money in the state's road budget to widen the southern portion of M-24 from Pratt Road south to the Oakland County line.

Susan Younger may be reached at (810)664-0811, ext. 8122 or susan.younger@lapeergroup.com