MEDC approves Downtown City Square project

By TOM LAVENTURE

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LANSING - The Michigan Economic Development Corporation announced Tuesday that Ironwood's proposed Downtown City Square project to create recreational and community space from a vacant lot was officially approved.

The Michigan Strategic Fund Board approved $1.47 million in Community Development Block Grant funds under the public facilities improvements category for the project. MEDC had tentatively approved the project for funding but the final hurdle was a presentation meeting Tuesday with Ironwood Mayor Annette Burchell, city manager Scott Erickson and community development director Tom Bergman.

"We had a very good presentation and they approved the project," Erickson said by phone on Tuesday. "The project was well received."

There are no changes in the project proposal or the approved dollar amount, he said. With the approval, the city may now complete the purchase of the property, finalize engineering and break ground when weather permits.

"The goal will be to get the project under construction and completed by the end of the summer," Erickson said. "We are still working on the time line with the consulting engineer."

The project will include landscaping and green space, an amphitheater, benches, tables, splash pads and electrical hook-up space for food vendors. There will be tie-down areas for arts and crafts vendors and farmers markets tents.

The design will allow the space to continue serving as the finish line of the annual SISU Ski Fest. Winter use will also include an outdoor skating rink and gas fireplace.

State Rep. Greg Markkanen, R-Hancock, also released a statement announcing the project's approval. The project to transform a vacant lot into an activity space should be applauded, he said.

"This project will be an excellent improvement to our downtown and will undoubtedly be a destination for many in the area," Markkanen said.

This funding includes $25,850 to provide the city with a CDBG certified grant administrator to assist with grant compliance.

"The Downtown City Square project will contribute to a stronger sense of place in downtown Ironwood by beautifying a vacant space for community members and visitors alike to enjoy," said Michele Wildman, senior vice president of community development for the MEDC. "This effort further amplifies our efforts to activate public spaces to help make communities more vibrant and attractive destinations for people of all ages to enjoy."

The Ironwood portion includes $9,250 toward the purchase of the vacant lot at the intersection of West McLeod Avenue and South Lowell Street. Another $191,000 will complete downtown lighting projects on West McLeod Avenue to the Hurley border, and the Douglas Boulevard business route from downtown to U.S. 2.