The City of Big Rapids will move forward with its attempt to replace a 40-year old retaining wall on the Muskegon River.

 

On Monday, Commissioners approved to submit an application for a $1.5-million dollar grant. If selected, the grant would require separate $500,000 matches from the city of Big Rapids and the Big Rapids Housing Commission.

 

State officials would allow up to 200 feet of the retaining wall to be replaced. The total cost for the retaining wall is estimated at $2.5-million dollars. 

 

The City Commission also approved a lease agreement between the city and Duncan and Marissa Klussmann who own the train depot property on the eastside of town. The lease is for 25 years at $100 per year. Commissioners also approved a resolution to submit a SPARK Grant application for the train depot property. According to City Manager Mark Gifford, if selected, the grant would help fund Depot Park Trailhead improvements, including parking lot improvements adjacent to the depot. 

 

Gifford told commissioners that working through the lease negotiations with the Klussmann’s it is very clear that they are community minded and want their renovation project and the business ventures that will follow to compliment the Trail and Depot Park Trailhead Project. They believe that having the entire space as public parking will be of mutual benefit.