West Michigan Potholes Are Back. Here’s How to Report Them

There is something about that first stretch of sunshine in West Michigan that just lifts everyone’s mood. You start blaring your favorite songs on the radio and get that false sense of hope that maybe winter is finally behind us.

Then, you hit a pothole.

Because while warmer weather brings brighter spirits, it also brings Michigan’s other state flower. Potholes. And this year, after heavier than usual snowfall and the constant freeze and thaw cycle, our roads are giving up even faster than usual.

Over the weekend, drivers across West Michigan started complaining online about massive craters popping up seemingly overnight. One in particular around 28th Street and Breton Street was reportedly wrecking tires and ruining people’s day on Saturday. (Not very romantic of you, potholes.)

While road crews are working to catch up as temperatures stay above freezing, potholes are not exactly predictable as to when or where’ll appear. So, we can only do our best to try to get on top of them while we can.

So what should you do when you spot a pot hole?

If you are driving on a city street in Grand Rapids, you can report potholes directly to the City of Grand Rapids using the city’s app, reporting online, or by calling 311. The more reports they receive, the faster crews can prioritize the worst spots. (See your local city for the specific place to report it, usually this is easily found on your city or village’s website. )

If the pothole is on a state highway or interstate like US-131, 96 or 1-96, that falls under the responsibility of Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT). You can report those online or by calling (888)296-4546 and leaving a voicemail with details about the location. If a pothole damages your vehicle, MDOT also allows drivers to file a claim online.

No one loves pothole season, but until the asphalt plants are running full speed and crews can make permanent fixes, we are all just navigating around them together.

So enjoy the sunshine and feel free to pretend it is real spring for a minute. Just keep your eyes on the road.