Travelers driving down the m-26 hill into Houghton will notice a new stop in town.
The Michigan Department of Transportation will test a new traffic signal on Wednesday before implementing the permanent signal at Canal Road next week.
On Wednesday the signal will run through a full operation, including green amber, and red signals for all directions. MDOT urges drivers to stay aware of the new traffic light at the intersection of m-26 and Canal Road and use caution when approaching the intersection.
The department will monitor the intersection over several years to determine its schedule during busy seasons versus slower traffic volume times of the year. The transportation department anticipates operating the signal from approximately May through October while placing the light in flash mode during the winter.
MDOT has installed the traffic light to slow drivers traveling down the hill where the speed limit drops from 45 miles per hour to 35 miles per hour over a steep grade, and to make it easier for drivers turning left off of canal road onto the highway. The new signal will improve safety along the highway and operation at the Canal Road intersection.
