The draft plan outlines nearly $170 million in proposed transportation investments over the next five years.
This includes more than 476 miles of road improvements and preservation projects, the construction of 16 roundabouts, the improvement or replacement of 8 bridges, and the replacement of 33 large culverts throughout Ottawa County.
Implementation of the projects listed in the draft SIP will be based on receipt of identified funding sources and are subject to change based budgetary constraints or other factors.
It is important to the plan development process to gather input and comments about the proposed projects from the public and local governmental partners prior to the plan being finalized and approved by the Road Commission Board.
Comments can be submitted using our online Contact Us form, or sent to info@ottawacorc.com.
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If you've been following this summer's construction projects, you'll soon have a chance to drive through two of Ottawa County's newest roundabouts.
Construction is wrapping up on two of the three roundabouts under construction, both of which are expected to open to traffic later this month.
If it's been a while since you've driven through a roundabout — or if you're new to them — don't worry. Single-lane roundabouts are designed to be simple, safe, and efficient.
Here are a few quick reminders:
- Slow down as you approach the roundabout.
- Yield to traffic already circulating in the roundabout before entering.
- Enter when there is a safe gap in traffic.
- Stay in your lane as you travel through the roundabout.
- Use your right turn signal as you exit to let others know you're leaving the roundabout.
That's it! Because these are single-lane roundabouts, drivers won't need to worry about changing lanes or choosing the correct lane before entering.
Roundabouts help improve traffic flow while reducing the risk of severe crashes, and we're excited to open these new intersections to the public.
As always, please drive carefully, watch for crews as finishing work continues, and be patient as everyone gets accustomed to the new traffic pattern.
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 Election season means the arrival of political signs dotting the landscape across
Ottawa County.
Signs of any kind should not be placed within the road right-of-way. Unauthorized signs in the road right-of-way can become safety hazards by:
- Blocking sight distance at public road intersections
- Distracting drivers from seeing important safety signs like a stop sign
- Becoming projectiles if accidentally run over by a mower or other roadside
maintenance equipment
The road right-of-way width varies by road. On most two-lane county roads, the road right-of-way is approximately 66 feet wide, but the width can vary by location.
When in doubt, it is a safe assumption that the road right-of-way extends at least to the far side of sidewalks, ditches or utility poles (if present).
You’re free to place signs outside of this right-of-way area, however townships and cities within Ottawa County may have more restrictive signage policies. Be sure you follow your municipality’s regulations when placing any signage.
While we do not actively go around removing signs within the road right-of-way, we will take action if there are safety concerns, such as issues related to sight distance or general distraction of many signs in one location.
The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has a separate policy governing the placement of signs on state highways (i.e. US-, I-, M-routes).
For information pertaining to MDOT’s policy, please contact MDOT’s Grand Region
office at (616) 451-3091 or visit the MDOT website.
Ever thought about a career with the Ottawa County Road Commission? We're always on the lookout for talented, dedicated people to help keep Ottawa County moving.
Whether you're an experienced mechanic, enjoy working outdoors in road maintenance, or are interested in another role, there's a good chance we have an opportunity that's right for you. Every position at OCRC plays an important part in maintaining the roads, bridges, and infrastructure our communities rely on every day.
If you're ready for a rewarding career with a team that takes pride in serving the public, we'd love to hear from you. Visit our jobs webpage to view our current openings, learn more about available positions, and apply online. New opportunities are posted as they become available, so be sure to check back often!
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