The report is in for orange barrels this coming weekend. On 696, the left lanes of eastbound and westbound I-696 will be closed at Ryan Road from 9 p.m. Friday until 6 a.m. Monday. The hard-working guys (and gals) will be doing sign work.

 In Oakland County, the right lane of eastbound I-696 will be closed from Drake to Orchard Lake roads from 6 a.m. until 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday for maintenance work.

"The Ditch" (as I call 696) seems to always be under construction. That adds to the already claustrophobic nature of the beast. Drive carefully people. Don't text and don't pass on the right.

Unless you're absolutely sure you can get away with it!