M-52 Tunnel Construction Video

Work on the B2B Trail pedestrian tunnel crossing under M-52 is nearing completion! We are excited to present a time-lapse video showing the tunnel construction that took place between May 4 and May 22. From excavation to repaving M-52, this video shows the incredible amount of work that took place to make this project happen. While a few weeks of construction remain, we will all be able to cross M-52 safely, and connect to the Pinckney and Waterloo Recreation Areas very soon. Thanks to all of the generous supporters who helped make this tunnel possible!

Watch the full 5-minute version here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1R_xsopK84

Time lapse footage provided by the Huron Waterloo Pathways Initiative. Aerial footage provided by the Washtenaw County Road Commission.

B2B Trail Construction Updates

The M-52 tunnel is complete and M-52 was reopened on May 29th as scheduled.

M-52 Tunnel Project and Trail – The M-52 tunnel has been installed and the M-52 road has been repaved! In June and early July construction will continue on the tunnel facade, interior and approach. Paving of the connecting trail is anticipated in June. Thank you for your patience during construction!

Lyndon Township Trailhead – Contractors have finished 90% of the stone base on the trailhead in preparation for paving in mid June. The trailhead is estimated to be completed in mid July.

Dexter-Huron Metropark to Zeeb Road – This segment is open and has been enjoyed by many people during the COVID-19 ‘stay at home’ period. Over the coming weeks we will complete minor restoration elements of the trail.

Zeeb Road to West Delhi Trail Segment (Bridge over the Huron River) – Plans are being finalized for this segment. When permits are issued from Amtrak and EGLE (formally MDEQ) and plans are approved by MDOT, the project will be bid out. A fall bid letting would mean that construction could begin in 2021.

West Delhi thru East Delhi Trail Segment – Plans for this trail segment are being finalized. The County anticipates letting this project out to bid later the summer, with construction starting this fall and continuing into 2021. Completion is anticipated by mid summer of 2021.

The Grove Road and Frog Island Trail Segments – Work on these projects in the City of Ypsilanti will begin in early June and continue through late July or early August.

The North Grove Road and North Hydro Park Trail Segment – Construction on these two Ypsilanti Township trail segments is scheduled to get started in mid to late July, and is anticipated for completion by early September.

B2B Trail Construction Updates

M-52 trail construction north of DTE Energy Foundation mountain bike trails and a retaining wall located near Green Lake Campground.

Huron River Drive Trail, Dexter Huron HCMA Park to Zeeb Road – This beautiful trail segment opened on April 1st and has seen extensive use. Minor restoration and finishing will take place over the coming weeks.

Lyndon Township Trailhead – The contractor has placed the aggregate surface material for the universal hiking trail. Final grading and landscape work will continue until mid-May.

M-52 Chelsea-Stockbridge Trail, Green Lake to North Territorial Road – The retaining walls north of Green Lake and behind Lyndon Township Hall are complete. Grading for the path continues on the segment just north of the DTE Energy Foundation mountain bike trails. Fine grading and asphalt paving is anticipated to start in mid-May.

M-52 Trail, Tunnel Project – Construction of the tunnel wing wall foundations is nearly complete. On May 4th, M-52 will be closed to begin installation of the pedestrian tunnel. The road will be closed for three weeks.

The Grove Road and Frog Island Trail – Work is scheduled to start on these two trail segments, located in the City of Ypsilanti, in early June.

The North Grove Road and North Hydro Park – Construction on these two Ypsilanti Township trail segments is scheduled for mid-May.

Meet the HWPI Team: Anna Wadhams

Anna Wadhams is excited to join HWPI as our new Assistant Director. An Ann Arbor native, Anna discovered her passion for environmental stewardship as an intern with the National Park Service in Washington, DC, leading interpretive and volunteer programs at the George Washington Memorial Parkway. This formative experience led to a career in environmental education and community engagement. Anna has worked as an outdoor educator in national parks throughout the DC region, and coordinated volunteer events spanning from local to national, including National Public Lands Day during her time with the National Environmental Education Foundation.

HWPI Assistant Director Anna Wadhams

In addition to education and outreach, Anna has a background in nonprofit management, grantmaking and independent nonprofit consulting. A University of Michigan graduate, Anna recently completed her Masters of Business Administration at The George Washington University. She’s excited to come back to her hometown and explore the new sections of the B2B running through her favorite section at Gallup Park. Please welcome Anna as the newest addition to the HWPI!

B2B Trail Construction Updates

Work continues at the B2B Trailhead near the intersection of North Territorial Road and M-52. Retaining walls for the trail segment adjacent to the trailhead are under construction.

Construction also continues on the tunnel under M52 that will connect the Pinckney and Waterloo Recreational areas. This construction will require the full closure of M-52 between Waterloo Road and N. Territorial Road for up to 3 weeks.

A detour will be posted during tunnel construction, however, residents and property owners who live within the work zone will be provided access to their homes and/or businesses. The Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission will issue an advisory once the exact closure date has been determined. Thank you in advance for your patience during the road closure. It will all pay off when we can use the tunnel to safely cross M52 while on the B2B!d and Frog Island trail segments in Ypsilanti Township and the City of Ypsilanti is being finalized for a March bid opening, with construction planned for later this summer.