***This story contains corrected information*** COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – The City of Coldwater will once again seek a state grant for the proposed US-12 Corridor Enhancement Plan in the downtown area.
After a nearly one hour discussion, the Coldwater City Council decided to re-apply for a grant of $700,000. The Michigan Economic Develpment Corporation would require a 50 percent match for the RAP 2.0 grant.
The M.E.D.C. also requires that applicants demonstrate a financial commitment to receive funding from this program.
City staff had asked the Council that they apply for a million dollar grant.
City Manager Keith Baker said they were applying again after being turned down the first time. He ran down the various sources that would fund the local match.
He pointed out it will be a long time before everything is finalized if the city proceeds with the project.
A US-12 corridor and lifestyle enhancement planning study was completed in 2021 in partnership with numerous community stakeholders.
Economic Development Coordinator & Main Street Director Audrey Tappenden said the project would improve pedestrian safety.
But Coldwater Fire Chief Dave Schmaltz expressed concerns how the project would affect his department response times.
The total cost for the project beginning at the Four Corners Park on the East and ending at North Hanchett Street on the West was estimated to be $2 million.
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