Munising, MI—
The City of Munising is in the final stages of a crucial infrastructure upgrade as road construction continues on East Varnum Street. This project, which spans a two-block section from Park Street to Lynn Street, is directly behind the courthouse. While the road is currently closed to through traffic, vehicles can still access the alley between the courthouse and the Sheriff’s Department.
City Manager Devin Olson has confirmed that this construction marks the conclusion of a more than three-year effort to replace and upgrade the city’s water main system. “This project will upgrade the water main under Varnum from 6 inches to 12 inches, allowing a direct connection from the central tank to Browns Addition,” Olson explained. Previous phases of the project, completed in 2021 and 2022, involved upgrading both ends of the line, and this final phase will link the entire system together.
Benefits
The benefits of this project are significant for Munising residents. A larger water main ensures more reliable water flow to the west end of town, which is crucial for both daily use and emergency services. The enhanced water pressure and capacity will also improve fire protection, potentially reducing insurance costs for homeowners in the area. Moreover, the project includes repaving the affected streets, offering residents the added benefit of smoother and safer roads. “The benefits to city residents include reliable water flow to the west end of town, improvements to fire protection, and new pavement in front of many houses,” Olson said.
The first layer of asphalt has already been applied, and the entire project is expected to be completed by mid-September, weather permitting. This effort represents the city’s ongoing commitment to maintaining and upgrading essential infrastructure, ensuring that Munising is well-prepared to meet the needs of its residents both now and in the future.
By investing in these long-term improvements, Munising is not only addressing current challenges but also laying the groundwork for a safer, more resilient community. The City of Munising can be reached at https://cityofmunising.org
