M6

The I-96 and M-6 Interchange East of Grand Rapids, MI

These are photos of the first stage in the construction of a new limited-access highway across southern Grand Rapids, MI. It will be designated M-6, or more likely will be informally called South Beltline (since there is already an East Beltline not far away). The first stage is the construction of an interchange with I-96, which will be the east end of M-6. This interchange is now complete, and motorists can now use the first phase of the new freeway, which currently only extends to M-37 from I-96. The completed interchange can be seen below as well.

I originally planned to document the entire construction of the freeway in photos, however, other priorities have arisen in my life at this time, and it will not likely happen. Nevertheless, I will keep this page on the web for as long as my host, Michigan State University, allows. Since I switched digital cameras between the two dates, you may notice an improvement in image quality on the finished interchange photos.

Construction of Interchange, February 2001.

Westbound I-96. The new on-ramp for westbound M-6 is at the right. It, along with I-96, cross the Thornapple River, which is also visible at the right as the sign reads.

Westbound I-96. As one climbs the west bank of the Thornapple River, the new terminus of eastbound M-6 merges with I-96 a little less than a mile ahead.

Eastbound I-96. Descending into the Thornapple valley, the eastbound M-6 overpass is under construction. (The same bridge as shown immediately above from the opposite direction).

Eastbound I-96. A view of the beginning of westbound M-6 again, under construction.

Finished Interchange, October 2001.

Westbound I-96. The on-ramp to M-6 westbound is ready to open.

Westbound I-96. The finished eastbound M-6 overpass that merges ahead.

Eastbound I-96. Eastbound I-96 view of eastbound M-6 overpass.

Eastbound I-96. Finished scene of westbound M-6 overpass with the Thornapple River passing under the lowest dip in I-96.