NEGAUNEE, Mich.(WZMQ) – The City of Negaunee is getting ready for some updates to its downtown area. This afternoon, the Downtown Development Authority held a groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the start of the downtown enhancement project.
A summer long project is about to begin on Iron Street. From the sewers underground, to renovations in Chiri Park, downtown Negaunee is about to start on some summer construction.
The Project Manager, Chis Holmes with U.P. Engineers and Architects, says construction will begin at the beginning of July once Pioneer Days wraps up. The $2.1 million project will also include renovations, landscaping and place making in parks along the street. City Manager, Nate Heffron, says the project is intended to improve the walkability in downtown Negaunee.
“A brand new street, brand new sidewalks. But we’re also going to have some upgrades, someplace making going on.” Heffron says, “Increasing the capacity, its getting a whole face lift.”
The Rail Street look out, Irontown Plaza, and Ericson Parkway are also expected to be a part of the renovations. Project organizers say they are excited to be moving forward with the plans.
“We’re going to be replacing the watermain underneath the street and we’re going to be doing sidewalks, curb and gutter, and the road on top of the street so it’s pretty much a complete overhaul of the whole thing.” Holmes says, “It’s going to be a breath of fresh air I think, for the downtown area. I think people have been waiting for this for a longtime so we’re excited to see it completed.”
Construction on Iron Street is scheduled to wrap up by the end of September. More information about the downtown projects can be found at ForgeNegaunee.com.
