Overhead flasher removal, solar beacon installation at M-88 intersection in Bellaire starts Oct. 12

GAYLORD, Mich. - Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) electricians will be removing the overhead beacon at the M-88 (Cayuga Street/Bridge Street) turn in downtown Bellaire, and installing solar-powered red flashing beacons above the stop signs.

The changes will make the trial four-way stop, which began in August 2025, permanent for the intersection. Installation of new crosswalks at the intersection is planned for 2027.

County:
Antrim

Highway:
M-88

Closest community:
Bellaire

Start date:
Monday, Oct. 12, 2026

Estimated end date:
Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026

Traffic restrictions:
This work will require single-lane closures with traffic shifts.

Safety benefit:
Previously, M-88 through-traffic did not stop at the intersection, which has a 90-degree turn for highway traffic. This configuration resulted in confusion for drivers unfamiliar with the intersection and some crashes, delays for side-street traffic waiting to enter the intersection, and limited opportunities for safe crosswalks at that turn in the highway.