In last night’s meeting, Big Rapids City Commissioners unanimously approved an application for $250,000 from the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) Economic Development Fund.

This money would be used to help support the paving of Monroe Avenue, which is the only street in the city limits that is not paved.

“This is a program that is designed just for this type of work,” City Manager Mark Gifford said. “We were able to use this one other time on Bailey Drive. This application would be a great boost to get the street paving done.”

If the city’s is approved and accepts the grant, they would pay at least $329,320 from the Monroe Street Paving and Storm Fund toward the remaining costs of the project.

“If you've been down Monroe after a rainstorm, it's embarrassing,” Mayor Fred Guenther said. “(When) the water runs right down through somebody's yard and we don't sandbag it, it'll get into their basement. This one needs to get done.”

The project also includes curb and gutter installation, storm sewer improvements, water main replacement, sanitary sewer upgrades, 1000 feet of storm sewer replacement, 800 tons of asphalt paving, sidewalk construction on one side, ADA ramp replacement, and pavement markings.

To watch this portion of the meeting, click here: COMMISSION MEETING.