Safety-focused redesign will close Oliver Lane/Oakland Drive intersection
The Oliver Lane intersection with Oakland Drive is set to be closed starting in May 2026.
KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Starting on May 7, the University will begin work to close off Oliver Lane where it intersects with Oakland Drive, resolving a longstanding safety issue. Insufficient sight distance at this location makes turning from Oliver Lane onto busy south or northbound Oakland difficult and potentially hazardous. The city of Kalamazoo, who has jurisdiction over Oakland Drive, is aware of the closure.
Construction for this project is expected to take place this summer, sometime after commencement.
Prior to construction beginning, there will be some utility work done in the area that will have no impact on access to buildings or parking lots. Once construction begins, it is expected to span the entire summer with project work wrapping up prior to fall move-in.
Once construction is complete, Oliver Lane will end at the entrance to Lot 11, by Little Theatre. The extra space between Oliver Lane and Oakland Drive will then become green space, with the sidewalk being extended to run continuously along Oakland Drive.
Moving forward, those looking to enter East Campus from Oakland Drive should do so from the traffic light at the intersection with Oliver Street.