United States Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg was in Monroe Monday to talk with stakeholders about the $196,000,000 commitment the U.S. made to improve two critical miles of I-75 over the River Raisin. The money is coming from MDOT, the U.S. Department of Transporation and OHM advisors. Bids are expected to be sent out in 2028 for the work.
The project will replace the structurally deficient bridge over the River Raisin and revitalize the roadways along I-75. The project will also replace six existing structures, reconfigure the Front Street interchange, eliminate the Elm Avenue interchange, replace multiple culverts and enhance the River Raisin Heritage Trail. The proposed ramps at Front Street will feature an improved geometric design with increased turning radii and super elevation which will enhance vehicle stability and allow for safer entry and exit maneuvers. The bridge will be designed for a 100 year life.
Many Congratulations to the residents of Frenchtown Charter Township and the Monroe County Sheriff's Department on the ribbon-cutting late this afternoon on the new Frenchtown Municipal Center and the Monroe County Sheriff's Office Substation on North Dixie Highway. It is a beautiful facility!
Congratulations to the Opportunity Center on the very well attended Groundbreaking Ceremony Tuesday late afternoon. When the Opportunity Center project is completed it will transform the community and become a beacon for our community. Mayor Robert Clark and City Manager David Robinson welcomed those in attendance and shared their vision of and purpose of the Center in our community. Members of the City Council, Senator Joe Bellino and Auch which built the third street Fire station participated in the groundbreaking. Several children who attended the event were invited to participate in the groundbreaking event. The Opportunity Center project is expected to be completed in 2026.
A fabulous countdown tonight for the lighting of the tree in front of the courthouse. Excited children helped Mayor Clark with the countdown!
Congratulations to TLC Credit Union on the Ribbon cutting Saturday in Lambertville!
The City of Monroe and a great gathering of residents celebrated the completion of the renovation of the Martin Luther King Junior Bridge Monday evening. The crowd cheered after the Ribbon Cutting was complete. This incredible bridge connects both sides of the River Raisin and its revitalization is important to our community and its residents.
Today's date for the Ribbon cutting is especially important. Doctor Martin Luther King Junior was named winner of the Nobel Peace Prize on this day in 1964.
Prior to this evening's ribbon cutting, Monroe City Manager David Robinson welcomed everyone to St. Mary's Park and a Blessing of the Bridge was shared by Sister Betty Leon, IHM.
Mayor Robert Clark told those in attendance that positive community support was championed for the bridge's needed improvements and worked with city staff and developed a plan on how to achieve the bridge's revitalization in terms of how the project was going to be funded, etc. Mayor Clark thanked those in attendance as well as for their support.
In 1993, the original dedication of the bridge was led by the Monroe County Black History Committee and its Chairperson Miss Easter Vining unveiled the historical marker that remains today and reminds all about crossing the bridge in honor to Dr. Martin Luther King Junior's message.
Mr. William Parker of the Monroe NAACP encouraged those in attendance to bring their children and grandchildren to look at and read the historical marker and learn who Dr. Martin Luther King was and what he has done for society.
Miss Ava Long, from the Opportunity Center at ALCC provided a meaningful reading called Community of Strength.
Monroe County Community College held a ground-breaking Wednesday afternoon for the $22-$25 million renovation expansion of the Welch Health Education Building on the campus of MCCC. The transformed building is tentatively being referred to as the Welch Center for Health and Public Safety. The state of Michigan approved $10.9 million for its share of the project. Michigan's Lieutenant Governor Garland Gilchrist attended the ground- breaking and spoke to those in attendance.
Monroe Township Firefighters creating the climb up stairs that 1st Responders at the World Trade Center on 9/11 climbed to help rescue those in Building 1 and Building 2 on that fateful day. Many of the firefighters in New York climbed the 110 flights of stairs to attempt to rescue those who were trapped.
Congratulations to the Monroe County Library System on its 90 Years of Dedication to our community! The Library System was established in 1934 and has since become a cornerstone of knowledge, imagination and learning in our Monroe County Community! Commissioner David Swartout presented the special tribute to Nancy Bellaire Director of the Monroe County Library System Monday morning at the Luna Pier Branch.
As promised, great music and dancing at the German American Festival!
Congratulations to the River Raisin Centre for the Arts on its ribbon-cutting Thursday afternoon! The transformation to the 3 story building is incredible and is a wonderful space!
A great ribbon cutting in Frenchtown Township for ivyrehab, located on Telegraph Road. The event was well attended!