South Lyon City Council Approves HVAC Installations and Boardwalk Enhancements

South Lyon City Council Moves Forward with Exciting Upgrades

In a productive meeting held on Monday evening, the South Lyon City Council made significant strides in enhancing the community’s infrastructure with the approval of new HVAC installations at the Historic Village and improvements to the boardwalk.

A Warm Welcome for the Historic Village

The highlight of the meeting was the council’s decision to install new heating and cooling systems for the freight house and museum within the Historic Village. Local business Heinanen Engineering stepped up to donate two furnaces and two air conditioning units, a generous contribution that showcases community spirit.

City Manager Paul Zelenak brought forth the proposal during the session, explaining that not only is the equipment being donated, but Heinanen Engineering will also handle the installation. According to the estimate provided by the company, the cost for installation will be $33,870.23, while the value of the donated equipment itself amounts to around $11,841.10.

Zelenak requested that the council waive the usual bidding requirement for the installation since the donation only covered the units. He noted that while bidding could be conducted for the installation, it wasn’t necessary given the circumstances. The council agreed, and a formal motion to accept the donated units will follow once the order is placed and the installation date is confirmed.

Revamping the Boardwalk

Another major item discussed was the plan to enhance the boardwalk south of Michigan Seamless Tube. The city had requested bids for approximately 450 feet of boardwalk, and Zelenak recommended accepting the bid from LJ Construction from Clifford, Michigan. They submitted the lowest bid at $538,311.

As Zelenak put it, “The metal bridge in between the two sections of the boardwalk will be evaluated by the contractor on site and assess repairs on that to extend the life of the bridge.” This project isn’t just about aesthetics; it involves ensuring the safety and longevity of the structures in place.

Funding the Projects

The funding for these projects will primarily come from the remaining funds allocated under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). This federal initiative aimed to help communities address long-term recovery issues stemming from the Covid-19 pandemic will cover most of the costs. The remaining amount, estimated at around $100,000, will be drawn from the city’s general fund.

Timelines and Next Steps

Once the green light is given, the anticipated start of the boardwalk construction is set for after December 1. Depending on the winter weather conditions, the project could either continue in spring, tentatively aiming for mid-April completion, or it might be finished by the end of 2024.

All Systems Go!

In a show of unity, all three motions—two regarding the HVAC installation and one concerning the boardwalk—passed unanimously. This collective agreement not only represents a step forward for South Lyon’s infrastructure but also highlights the collaborative efforts of local businesses, city officials, and the community at large.

As these projects unfold, residents can look forward to a revitalized Historic Village and an improved outdoor space that enhances both beauty and function in South Lyon.