Construction season is in full swing across Michigan, and with it comes the all-too-familiar frustrations of detours, lane closures, and extended commutes. In the city of Walker, located just northwest of Grand Rapids, one massive road project has inspired a local leader to take a lighthearted approach to the disruption.

A $30 million roadwork initiative is currently underway in Walker, focused on rebuilding and expanding Fruit Ridge Avenue between 3 Mile Road and Northridge Drive. The project also includes replacing the original 1961 Fruit Ridge Avenue bridge over I-96 and rebuilding the interchange, along with the addition of a new nonmotorized path running along Fruit Ridge and 3 Mile Road. The trail will feature key connections to both the north and south sides, enhancing pedestrian and bike access once complete.

As drivers navigate the maze of cones and closures, Walker Mayor Gary Carey Jr. has stepped in with a bit of humor—and support. He’s issued what might be the most entertaining document of the construction season: an "Official Excused Tardy Slip" from the "Totally Legit Office of Construction Delay Forgiveness."

The faux-official slip, titled "Fruit Ridge Detour Zone - Official Excused Tardy Slip," is meant for workers who find themselves late due to the gridlock. In the note, Mayor Carey writes:

“Please excuse [name] from their delayed return to work. This dedicated individual was not lollygagging – they were fueling up in more ways than one at Ago/Citgo Gas Station, valiantly navigating the swirling vortex of detours, cones, and lane closures that now grace Fruit Ridge Ave.”

The idea is generating plenty of smiles online, especially among loyal patrons of the local AGO/Citgo station, who say they’re more than willing to brave the traffic for their favorite stop.

Though the tongue-in-cheek pass won’t hold up in court or HR meetings, it’s a creative nod to the shared inconvenience many West Michigan residents are experiencing—and a way to keep spirits up amid a months-long infrastructure overhaul.

Originally reported by WGRD.