Archived News Release: March 7, 2018 - The City of Ann Arbor and the Downtown Development Authority are partnering on a large-scale street improvement. Beginning in mid March, North Fifth and Detroit Street, between Catherine and Kingsley, will be under construction, "paving the way" to an improved streetscape, inviting to motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.
The project includes roadway construction, underground utility upgrades, crosswalk improvements and reconfiguration, including a pedestrian crossing island, historic brick restoration, pedestrian-scale lighting replacements, sidewalk replacements and the addition of other pedestrian amenities.
The comprehensive nature of this project will make it necessary for lane closures and temporary street closures throughout the duration of the project. To mitigate parking demand in the neighborhood, the DDA will offer free parking 7 a.m.-3 p.m. every Saturday (beginning March 24) during construction at the Ann/Ashley Parking Structure, two blocks away.
The intersection of North Fifth and Detroit Street is home to celebrated features, including the Kerrytown Shops, the Ann Arbor Farmer's Market, Zingerman's, Community High School and the Old Fourth Ward Historic District. The goal of this project is to maintain the special character of the neighborhood, while also improving the safety and function of the sidewalks and streets.
The City of Ann Arbor and the DDA thank residents and businesses in advance for their patience and cooperation as crews work to make these necessary improvements.
For updated project information: www.a2gov.org/FifthAvenue.
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The mission of the Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority is to undertake public improvements that have the greatest impact in strengthening the downtown area and attracting new private investments.
