The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is opening the floor to public opinion regarding the upcoming refurbishments to the US-31 Business Route in Montague. Set for a 2027 start, the project’s scope includes a planned resurfacing of the roadway in addition to updating sidewalk ramps to meet the standards set forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Particularly, a major touchpoint for the project is a fractional 0.01-acre permanent easement right of way, to be obtained at the east corner where US-31 BR converges with Water/Dowling streets, alongside Ellenwood Park, commonly identified as Weathervane Park.
Amongst the planned improvements, the public should note, the sidewalk ramp will be temporarily out of commission, however, the park will stubbornly continue to welcome visitors. In light of the project potentially influencing the nearby recreational spaces, MDOT is actively seeking public feedback. This community engagement falls under the underpinnings of a de minimis impact finding, as stated by Section 4(f) of the U.S. Department of Transportation Act of 1966, which assesses the effect of transportation projects on public parks and recreational areas, among other protected spaces.
Residents and interested parties looking to weigh in on the matter have multiple avenues for submission at their disposal. Related comments and concerns can be tendered through a public comment form, or via mail, email, or phone. The point of contact for these submissions is Monica Monsma, MDOT’s Public Involvement Specialist and Hearings Officer. She can be reached at [email protected], or by traditional postal service at: Monica Monsma, MDOT Environmental Services Section, 425 West Ottawa, St.P.O. Box 30050, Lansing, MI 48909, 517-335-4381
