New Diverging Diamond Interchange Improves Access, Boosts Business

A new Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) has transformed a high traffic corridor in Grand Rapids, Michigan by providing greater public access, improved safety and a boost to the local economy. The I-96 at Cascade Road DDI is the second DDI ever built in Michigan, successfully replacing a 55-year-old structure to meet projected traffic growth in the area. More than 20,000 vehicles a day from businesses, clinics, a hospital, retirement homes, schools and private residences were impacted by the project, which required a complex, 12-stage construction staging scheme and extensive coordination. The overall complexity and success of this new DDI drew industry recognition as well, earning a 2017 ACEC National Recognition Award, 2017 ACEC-MI Honorable Award, and 2017 Award of Merit from the Asphalt Pavement Association of Michigan (APAM).

This $15.6 million project was a joint effort between the Michigan Department of Transportation, Kent County Road Commission, and Grand Rapids Charter Township. Benesch provided construction management services, overseeing daily operations and serving as the central communication entity.