Improvements to downtown Northville are going slowly but surely, and are about to wrap up for the season before cold weather really sets in.
Northville has been in the midst of a streetscape project -- improving sidewalks, street lighting, benches, trash receptacles, street trees and landscaping -- in the area of Main and Center streets. This work is consistent with the work the city has previously done on its Town Square project, and replaces a 32-year-old streetscape, parts of which were outdated or deteriorating.
Downtown Development Authority director Lori Ward says sidewalks are completed and all streets are open to traffic. The landscaping will be completed in the spring, she says.
"It will be wrapped up by end of the month," says Ward. "It always takes a little bit longer to complete a project than you hope."
The city actually completed more of the 2010 phase than anticipated, moving up in the timeline some new barrier-free ramps on Main Street. Also among the improvements are two electric car charging stations, which are now being readied for the coming units, and light fixtures that will have high-induction lighting. The bulb has a 28-year lifespan and it still draws less power than a typical bulb, she says.
Northville was one of three communities to receive Michigan Department of Transportation grants, which provide for investments in trail and streetscape projects, to help fund the project. The $1.3 million price tag is split between $685,880 in federal funds and equivalent matching funds from the city.
The city has been keeping residents informed of the progress at the DDA's website, where weekly updates are posted.
Source: Lori Ward, director, Northville Downtown Development Authority
Writer: Kristin Lukowski
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