By Brian Marshall
Review Editor
Talk about a split decision. Orion Township’s decision to do round-the-clock construction along Lapeer Road has stirred emotions.
Orion Township Supervisor Chris Barnett isn’t surprised that some people are upset that construction crews on M-24 have been working well into the night and morning.
“We are getting complaints regarding the night time work,” said Barnett.
“There are about four or five nights left to repair the cracks in the pavement. Crews are working from Clarkston to Silverbell.”
The following comments appeared on Barnett’s Facebook page:
Johanna Misiak: “I’m good with it. It’s just getting us prepared for the fireworks that go off for about two weks before the 4th and a week after it. I’d rather have it done at night instead of during the day causing havoc.”
Noelle Gailey: “The machinery was so loud that it sounded as if the emergency sirens were going off. It was piercing to my ears at times. It made it very difficult to sleep. That should not be allowed.”
Tara Graves Lange: “I understand the need for night work, but I don’t understand what they are doing.”
“Have you driven on it? It feels like constant speed bumps. It was better before the ‘repair’.”
Tina Hagen Berrye: “Yes, thank you for looking out for the great township of Orion. I for one am happy construction will be done in half the time.”
“Ear plugs work great at night and so do slumber parties away from home.”
Township oridance normally allows construction from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The township board approved the expanded hours.
“Doing work at night actually speeds up the process,” Barnett said.
“With much less traffic, crews are able to complete more work.”
The board, Barnett said, was taking a long-term approach when voting to extend the work hours.
“The Township Board made a decision to allow this to happen in order to condense the project from two construction seasons to one,” he said. “We are allowing them to work through the night.”
“My understanding is it’s only specific parts of the construction and this phase is almost over.”
Barnett hopes concerned residents can keep the finish line in sight.
“I realize this is an irritant to some,” he said. “Thank you for your patience as this important road project continues. No construction project is easy. Trust me, the end result will be worth the temporary pain,” Barnett added.