.:Traffic Congestion Relief

The Martin Parkway Extension from Oakley Park Road to Pontiac Trail is a Reality

Commerce Township residents can finally breathe a little easier – traffic congestion relief at M-5 and Pontiac Trail is on the way!

Construction has begun on an extension of Martin Road as Martin Parkway that will connect at M-5 and Pontiac Trail. The Commerce Township Downtown Development Authority (DDA) has worked tirelessly to make the new Martin Parkway a reality. The project is expected to be completed in late fall, 2008 with a roundabout at M-5, Pontiac Trail and Martin Parkway completed in 2009.

The final nod for the project came in December from the Federal Highway Administration and the Michigan Department of Transportation. The approval, known as a FONSI (Finding of No Significant Impact), gave the DDA approval to officially start construction.

“The DDA is committed to the long– term economic health and stability of Commerce Township,” said Wynn Berry, DDA director. “We have conducted extensive surveys and research with many environmental, engineering, traffic and transportation firms. The DDA board, the township board, the planning commission and many others have spent long hours discussing alternatives, the means and methods to handle problems and opportunities to keep Commerce a wonderful place to live, work, play and visit.”

Berry said that over the years the DDA has worked with the Road Commission for Oakland Country, the Michigan Department of Transportation, the Federal Highway Administration and environmental agencies to find a solution to the traffic problems the township faces.
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	To develop a core area the entire community can recognize as Commerce
	To provide for a location for a new library and town hall
	Provide new form-based zoning ordinance for the Township to achieve a pleasing format and economically stable building format on major roadways
	To enhance stream quality in the plan area, using flood plain for both active and passive recreational pursuits as well as a water cleansing area
	To provide for extensive landscaping in the 320-340 acre development area between Haggerty and Pontiac Trail
	To extend Martin Road to Pontiac Trail
	To improve Haggerty Road to five lanes
	To improve the intersection of M-5 and Pontiac Trail
	To improve Richardson Road