News Summary Ongoing construction projects at the University of Michigan’s Diag are causing significant disruptions for students and visitors. These projects aim to enhance pedestrian infrastructure, improve drainage systems, and increase accessibility. Delays have been reported, with completion expected in late fall. While these upgrades are crucial for long-term maintenance, concerns have arisen about their impact on campus navigation and overall accessibility. The construction delays highlight the need for effective communication regarding project timelines to reduce inconvenience for the campus community. Ann Arbor, Michigan — Construction Projects in University of Michigan’s Diag Affect Student Navigation Multiple construction projects underway in the University of Michigan’s Diag area have caused noticeable disruptions for students and visitors navigating the campus. The ongoing work, which began in May, involves repairs and improvements aimed at restoring and enhancing the pedestrian environment as well as infrastructure resilience. Details of the Construction Projects Currently, three primary projects are in progress in the Diag. The first involves the replacement of deteriorated brick pavers and their concrete underlayment. This effort addresses damage resulting from years of freeze-thaw cycles and frequent use of the area. Originally scheduled for completion on August 15, the project has experienced delays and is now expected to finish in September. The second project focuses on improving drainage systems for low-lying portions of the sidewalk. These enhancements are designed to better direct water runoff and prevent pooling and puddles during rainy or snowy weather. The drainage work is expected to conclude by September, with some activities extending into late fall due to the discovery of more extensive damage to the concrete subbase than initially anticipated. The remaining drainage and tree health projects are targeted for completion by October 17. The third project involves adding an accessible ramp to the north entrance of the Hatcher Graduate Library. This new ramp aims to supplement the existing ADA-compliant entrance located on the south side of the building, offering improved accessibility. Construction of this ramp has been pushed back from the initial scheduled date of August 29, with a new expected completion in October. Broader Impact and Additional Improvements The ongoing construction has extended beyond paving and drainage work. Additional efforts include loosening soil around trees in the Diag and adding compost to promote healthier roots. Natural aeration is also being supported by introducing earthworms into the soil. These efforts aim to improve the overall health of the campus greenery. These improvements are not only intended to fix physical damage but also to bolster the health of campus trees, which have been affected by environmental stress and continued foot traffic. The enhancements aim to create a safer, more sustainable, and more accessible environment for students and visitors alike. Impact on Student Movement and Campus Accessibility The construction has caused significant challenges for students navigating the area. Students have reported difficulties in moving around the Diag, especially during adverse weather conditions when puddles form on the flat sidewalks and make walking difficult. The new drainage systems are designed to address these issues. Construction activities on State Street are also impacting campus access. A major City of Ann Arbor project involves the Watermain and Resurfacing Project, which has resulted in a complete closure of State Street between South University Avenue and East William Street until mid-November 2025. This adds another layer of inconvenience for campus community members trying to move through the area. Community Feedback and Future Outlook Campus leaders and student representatives have expressed concerns regarding the ongoing disruptions, emphasizing the importance of effective communication about construction schedules and impacts. Central Student Government President highlighted the need for ongoing dialogue to mitigate the effects of construction on student experiences and accessibility. While these projects are essential for the long-term maintenance of the campus infrastructure and environmental health, they underscore the importance of planning and communication in minimizing inconvenience and ensuring accessibility for all campus users. Construction activities are expected to continue into late fall and early winter, with efforts coordinated to complete all projects as efficiently as possible. The numerous upgrades and repairs aim to provide a safer, more accessible, and environmentally sustainable campus environment that will benefit students, staff, and visitors in the years to come. Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic HERE Resources Vestavia Hills Approves Major Athletic and Infrastructure Projects High School Rankings Highlight Excellence in Southwestern Pennsylvania Wilmington Approves Funding for Greenville Loop Trail Expansion Additional Resources The Michigan Daily: Diag Construction Multi-Housing News: CRG Shapack Student Project YieldPro: Chapter Ann Arbor MLive: Move-in Closures and Roadwork Wikipedia: University of Michigan
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