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The Michigan Department of Transportation has released the 2016 construction map of projects scheduled for this upcoming construction season.  The map includes several major projects for the Jackson area, along with their anticipated timelines.  "Making the yearly construction map available to download leverages technology to help travelers plan ahead," said State Transportation Director Kirk T. Steudle. "Remember to slow down in construction zones and avoid all distractions. Road workers are entrusting their lives with you while they focus on the task at hand. Let's make sure everyone makes it home each and every day during this construction season." Jackson area projects include (number corresponds to map markers): 70.  I-94:  May-November.  Repair 9 bridges between Airport Road and the Jackson/Calhoun county line.  There will be one lane closed in each direction of I-94.  Local road closures will have posted detours. 73.  I-94:  June-September.  Repair Lansing Avenue bridge over I-94.  One bridge lane has been closed since last fall.  Overnight single lane closures on I-94, with short term total closures planned.  Lansing Avenue will continue to have single lane closures with traffic shift. 74.  M-50/US 127 Business Route (West Avenue):  April-September.  Reconstruct West Avenue from Ganson Street to North Street (April-June).  Michigan Avenue…

Consumers Energy, Michigan's largest utility and the fourth-largest U.S. combination utility, announced  changes to its senior leadership team. "We are pleased to announce changes to our Company's senior leadership team, which builds on successful execution of our strategy, continuity, and our collective 'all in' commitment to provide safe, reliable and affordable electric and natural gas service to our customers and the State of Michigan," said Patti Poppe, incoming president and chief executive officer. As previously announced, Poppe on July 1 will become president and chief executive officer, replacing John Russell who has elected to retire. Also effective July 1 are the following changes: Remaining in their current positions will be: Tom Webb, executive vice president and chief financial officer;John Butler, senior vice president, human resources and shared services; Dan Malone, senior vice president of energy resources; and Catherine Reynolds, senior vice president and general counsel. In addition, David Mengebier, senior vice president of governmental and public affairs, will assume responsibility for regulatory affairs. Garrick Rochow is named senior vice president of distribution and customer operations. Rochow previously served as vice president of customer experience, rates & regulation, and quality. Brian Rich is named senior vice president of customer experience and…

Prosecuting Attorney Jerry Jarzynka announced today that he will be seeking a second term as Jackson County Prosecuting Attorney. He has filed his paperwork with the County Clerk and he is running as a Republican. "This office has had outstanding results in our major cases during these last three years, being tough on violent criminals and sexual predators," said Jarzynka. "These results are due in significant part to an excellent working relationship between the Prosecutor's Office and Sheriff Steve Rand and all local law enforcement. We are working together as a team to protect the people of Jackson County and seek justice for the victims of crime," said Jarzynka. "Prosecutor Jerry Jarzynka's office has worked extremely well with the Sheriff s Office and local law enforcement to protect and serve our citizens," said Sheriff Rand. "I wholeheartedly support Prosecutor Jarzynka's bid for a second term," said Sheriff Rand. "In my first term as Prosecuting Attorney, Ihave honored my campaign promises: Being tough on violent criminals and sexual predators; Expanding and promoting the use of the Child Advocacy Center to help investigate, evaluate and offer counseling for child abuse victims; Being tough on parolees who commit new crimes; Assigning an Assistant…