Downriver Today

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced May 11 during Economic Development Week that 11 cities will receive $3 million to improve infrastructure and public safety. 

The City of Royal Oak Township will receive $285,000 to replace a water main, according to a news release from the governor’s office.

“This funding means a great deal to our small community, the water system improvements that can be completed with this money will provide our residents and critical customers with higher quality water, improved pressures, fire protection and more reliable water supply,” said Donna Squalls, Township supervisor. “With this money we will be able to provide a more robust supply of water to critical customers along our 8 Mile corridor. Without your help this work to help move our Township forward would not be possible.”

Benton Harbor City will receive $425,000 to replace a fire engine, Ecorse City will receive $278,307 for the installation of surveillance cameras, security doors, and renovate a police center, according to the release. Ontonagon village will receive $216,287 to replace water meters.

“Today’s grants will help protect public safety and enhance infrastructure in nearly a dozen communities across Michigan,” Whitmer said. “As a former prosecutor public safety is a core issue for me, and I want families (to) feel safe at home in the streets. And as a governor focused on the kitchen-table issues, I want high-quality roads, bridges, and water infrastructure so people can get to where they need to go safely and have access to clean, safe drinking water.”

Other cities receiving funding to support improvement projects are Gaastra, Hamtramck, Harper Woods, Highland Park, Inkster, Peck Village and Melvindale, the release stated.

Whitmer said that each grant will help municipalities persevere and help the state achieve its economic goals.

Cities involved with the Financially Distressed Cities, Villages and Townships Grant Program must exhibit conditions that signify “probable financial stress” in accordance with state law to qualify for funding, the release stated.

“The Michigan Department of Treasury looks forward to working with our local partners to find projects that could help move a community toward financial stability,” said State Treasurer, Rachael Eubanks. “Our team will ensure these grants are provided to our local communities as expeditiously as possible.”