The City of Howell could be getting not one, but two roundabouts at the I-96/D-19 interchange, at least according to preliminary plans. While the city has many tiny “swerve-abouts” in neighborhoods to slow traffic, this project would be its first full-size roundabouts if it comes to fruition; it would also be the second double roundabout in Livingston County, joining the one at U.S. 23 and Lee Road in Green Oak Township.
The preliminary plans, according to Howell Mayor Nikolas Hertrich, show a roundabout at both the north and south sides of I-96 at the entrance and exit ramps to D-19. There are plenty details that would need to be worked out. The city will need to work with MDOT, the Livingston County Road Commission, and Marion Township.
But an important step forward has already taken place. State Rep. Jason Woolford, R-Howell, has requested a $6 million state grant for construction to “address long-standing safety and congestion issues in the Howell area,” which has been advanced by the Michigan House of Representatives and is included in its budget bill. Budget negotiations will take place between both chambers.
“We should know by July 1st where we sit if the budget is passed by the statutory target date,” Hertrich said.
Woolford has been working with the City of Howell to prioritize improvements along the D-19/Michigan Avenue corridor, and earlier this month, he testified in committee with Mayor Hertrich, City Manager Kristi Troy, and Howell Police Chief Mike Dunn to express that there was strong local support for the project.
“This is about fixing a problem that’s been ignored for far too long,” Woolford said. “Residents deserve safe, reliable roads, and this investment will help ensure people can get where they need to go without unnecessary delays or risks.
Woolford said current conditions at the interchange and along South Michigan Avenue pose serious public safety concerns. When trains block nearby crossings, parts of the city can become effectively cut off, delaying emergency response times and putting lives at risk, particularly for residents in southern Howell and Marion Township.
Under Woolford’s plan, the project would improve traffic flow, reduce crashes, and better accommodate commercial traffic, especially during peak hours. The improvements are expected to ease congestion and provide more reliable access for commuters and local businesses.
Woolford also noted the importance of modern infrastructure in attracting and retaining major employers. Companies are actively evaluating the region for potential expansion, including projects that could bring more than 1,000 high-paying jobs focused on advanced mobility and energy innovation.
“Strong infrastructure is key to economic growth,” Woolford said. “If we want to attract good-paying jobs and support local businesses, we need roads and systems that can handle the demand.”
Woolford said the investment represents a practical, forward-looking step that will enhance safety, strengthen regional connectivity, and support long-term economic growth across Livingston County.
“This is a responsible use of taxpayer dollars that delivers real results,” Rep. Woolford said. “It strengthens our communities today and helps position our region for future success.”
