M&M (Martin-Brower) Expansion: The M&M distribution center, now owned by Martin-Brower, is undergoing an ambitious expansion at the north end of the City of St. Johns. The City worked diligently with Martin-Brower to insure the retention of this important business in our community.
Martin-Brower’s decision to keep this distribution facility in St. Johns results in 160 jobs being retained. Beyond that, the 2012 expansion of the facility could create an additional 140 new positions. The City gives special recognition to Innovative Polymers, Inc., Barnard Manufacturing, Save-A-Lot and Michigan Wire Cloth, as each of these companies played a significant role in securing an adequate site for the Martin-Brower expansion.
Scott Road Construction Completed: Using Small Urban Grant funds, the City recently completed the Scott Road heavy maintenance and re-surfacing project. This involved the resurfacing of Scott Road from Jones Street (near the Wheel Inn) to Wildcat Road. Some curb reconstruction and related work was also done.
The City also resurfaced Sturgis Street from the South Point north mall entrance to Scott Road. The City also used limited road funds to resurface the remaining portion of Scott Road from Wildcat Road to M-21. Because road funds are in short supply through this calendar year, no additional public right-of-way projects are slated for design or construction.
Elm Street Vacation: You may have heard about the City’s plan to vacate Elm Street between Swegles and Oakland Streets. This rather short public right-of-way runs east-west just south of the Sparrow-Clinton Memorial Hospital. The City will vacate this roadway to accommodate the hospital’s proposed southward expansion of its existing facility, which is tentatively slated to commence in early 2013. The proposed addition is currently in the design and engineering phase.
Rails-To-Trails Update: The much anticipated Tri County Rails-to-Trails project is steadily moving toward the construction phase. City staff recently met with Department of Natural Resources personnel to discuss the routing of the trail through the City in the downtown area. The engineering phase of the trail is nearing completion. Funding for construction and maintenance is in place. It is projected that actual trail construction will begin in the spring of 2013. This multi-use recreational trail will not only provide wonderful outdoor opportunities for families, but will also be an economic boost for the downtown business community. Once the engineering phase of the trail is completed a DNR representative will come to St. Johns to make a formal presentation before the City Commission.
Mint Festival Wet, Yet Successful: The City of St. Johns hosted yet another successful and enjoyable Mint Festival this month. Fighting erratic weather, the St. Johns Chamber of Commerce and St. Johns Principal Shopping District (DMB/DDA) are to be commended for their considerable efforts in making this one of the best local summer festivals in the Mid-Michigan area. These events are only possible due to the unselfish efforts of the many volunteers. Family fun, good food, great entertainment-and the planning has already begun for next year.
School Days: With the school year beginning next week, please remember to drive safely and slowly in school zones. During the fall season especially more students walk and ride bikes to their schools.
Also be mindful of the new traffic control signs (3 Way Stop) at the T-intersection of Morton and Sickels, near the high school. We wish all the students, teachers and support staff a successful and rewarding educational experience.
Go Redwings!