Lansing, October 18, 2025
Construction on a major roadway in Lansing is set to be completed today, aligning with an Expungement Fair. This dual event emphasizes ongoing infrastructure projects and the available community support services in the Michigan capital region, showcasing a commitment to improving both infrastructure and social resources.
Lansing, Michigan Celebrates Completion of Major Roadway Reconstruction and Hosts Expungement Fair
Major Roadway Reconstruction Completed in Lansing
Lansing, Michigan has officially reopened Michigan Avenue after a comprehensive $14.1 million reconstruction project. The two-year initiative, which concluded on October 17, 2025, involved rebuilding the roadway from Pennsylvania Avenue to Howard Street. Key improvements include new sidewalks, updated traffic signals, and upgrades to water and sewer mains. The road was also narrowed from five lanes to four, adding a center turn lane and dedicated bike lanes to enhance safety and accessibility. Lansing Mayor Andy Schor emphasized that these enhancements aim to attract both residents and businesses back to the corridor.
Cooley Law School Hosts Expungement Fair in Lansing
On October 17, 2025, Cooley Law School in Lansing hosted an expungement fair to assist individuals in removing certain arrests and convictions from their public criminal records. During the event, volunteer attorneys and law students, under the supervision of licensed attorneys, helped 67 individuals with their expungement paperwork. Prior to the fair, nearly 140 individuals were screened to determine their eligibility. The “Clean Slate” legislation enacted in 2020 expanded eligibility for expungements, allowing individuals with up to three expungement-eligible felonies and any number of misdemeanors to have their records expunged. Certain traffic violations and first-time operating while intoxicated offenses are also eligible for expungement.
Background on Michigan Avenue Reconstruction
The Michigan Avenue Rehabilitation Project aimed to address the deteriorating condition of the roadway and improve safety for all users. The project included road reconstruction, sidewalk replacement, traffic signal modernization, and upgrades to utilities such as sewer and water mains. The reconfiguration of Michigan Avenue from five lanes to four, with the addition of a center turn lane and dedicated bike lanes, was designed to make the corridor more pedestrian and bike-friendly, fostering a welcoming environment for both residents and businesses.
Background on Expungement Fair
The expungement fair at Cooley Law School was part of a broader initiative to assist individuals in clearing their criminal records, thereby improving their opportunities for employment and housing. The “Clean Slate” legislation, enacted in 2020, significantly expanded the scope of expungement eligibility, reflecting a shift towards rehabilitation and second chances within the Michigan legal system. The event was organized in collaboration with Cooley Law School, Ascend, the Attorney General’s Office, Michigan State Police, Legal Services of South Central Michigan, and Safe & Just Michigan.
Upcoming Expungement Fair in Detroit
Following the success of the Lansing event, an expungement fair is scheduled to take place in Detroit on October 18, 2025. This event aims to provide similar assistance to individuals seeking to expunge their criminal records, continuing the efforts to support community members across Michigan.
Related Infrastructure Projects in Lansing
Lansing has been actively engaged in infrastructure improvements to enhance the city’s transportation network. Notably, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) initiated a $44 million investment to rebuild the eastbound and westbound I-96 bridges over Billwood Highway, the Grand River, M-99, and Washington Avenue. This project, which began in May 2025, is part of a broader effort to improve safety and mobility in the region.
Conclusion
The completion of the Michigan Avenue reconstruction and the hosting of the expungement fair in Lansing underscore the city’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure and supporting community initiatives. These efforts aim to improve the quality of life for residents and foster economic growth in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What improvements were made during the Michigan Avenue reconstruction project?
The $14.1 million reconstruction project included rebuilding the roadway, adding new sidewalks, updating traffic signals, and upgrading water and sewer mains. The road was narrowed from five lanes to four, with the addition of a center turn lane and dedicated bike lanes to enhance safety and accessibility.
How many individuals received assistance at the Cooley Law School expungement fair?
During the expungement fair, 67 individuals were assisted with their expungement paperwork. Prior to the event, nearly 140 individuals were screened to determine their eligibility.
What is the “Clean Slate” legislation in Michigan?
The “Clean Slate” legislation, enacted in 2020, expanded eligibility for expungements, allowing individuals with up to three expungement-eligible felonies and any number of misdemeanors to have their records expunged. Certain traffic violations and first-time operating while intoxicated offenses are also eligible for expungement.
When is the next expungement fair scheduled in Michigan?
An expungement fair is scheduled to take place in Detroit on October 18, 2025, following the success of the Lansing event.
What other infrastructure projects are underway in Lansing?
Lansing is engaged in a $44 million investment to rebuild the eastbound and westbound I-96 bridges over Billwood Highway, the Grand River, M-99, and Washington Avenue. This project began in May 2025 and is part of a broader effort to improve safety and mobility in the region.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Reconstruction of Michigan Avenue in Lansing Completed
Michigan Construction Wraps Up, Traffic Eases
Michigan Avenue Rehabilitation Project Affects Hospital Access
Author: Construction MI News
MICHIGAN STAFF WRITER The MICHIGAN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructionminews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Michigan and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Michigan Build Expo, major infrastructure projects, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated Builders and Contractors of Michigan and the Home Builders Association of Michigan, plus leading businesses in construction and legal services that power the local economy such as CMiC Global and Miller Canfield LLP. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructiontxnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.
