By Mark Timmer
Managing Director
Oceana County Road Commission
The Oceana County Road Commission is moving forward with a significant infrastructure improvement project along Stony Lake Road (M-20) and 68th Avenue. The project includes the construction of a new pedestrian tunnel beneath Stony Lake Road (M-20), designed to enhance public safety, accessibility and connectivity for visitors of Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo. The project is a collaboration between the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), the Oceana County Road Commission, Shelby Township and Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo and is being funded by a special allocation obtained from the State of Michigan by Senator Jon Bumstead.
The work includes construction of a pedestrian tunnel beneath Stony Lake Road (M-20), along with roadway reconstruction on both Stony Lake Road (M-20) and 68th Avenue. Project elements include placement of approximately 1,200 tons of hot-mix asphalt (HMA), new aggregate base and sand subbase, concrete curb and gutter, and a concrete shared-use path to support pedestrian and tram travel underneath M-20. Additional improvements include upgraded drainage infrastructure, permanent pavement markings, and turf restoration to ensure long-term durability and environmental stability.
The Oceana County Road Commission appreciates the public’s patience during construction and remains committed to delivering safe, efficient and accessible transportation facilities for all users.
The project is anticipated to begin on March 9 with an interim completion date of May 17, when the road will be open for traffic, and a final completion date of late August in 2026.
Traffic Impacts and Detour Routes
During the construction phase, both M-20 and 68th Avenue will be closed to through traffic. Signed detour routes will be in place for the duration of the closures.
• M-20 Detour: Traffic will be directed to utilize US-31, then Shelby Road or Winston Road, to Oceana Drive, and then return to M-20.
• 68th Avenue Detour: Traffic will be directed to use Water Road to Arthur Road to navigate around the closure.
Motorists are encouraged to follow posted detour signage and allow additional travel time. The Road Commission appreciates the public’s cooperation and patience as these improvements are completed.
