South Lyon City Council Approves Exciting Upgrades for Historic Village and Outdoor Spaces

Exciting Upgrades on the Horizon for South Lyon

The South Lyon City Council has made some exciting decisions during their recent meeting on Monday, approving significant upgrades that aim to enhance both the Historic Village and the city’s outdoor spaces. With the installation of new HVAC equipment and the construction of a new boardwalk, community members can look forward to a fresh look and feel in these vital areas.

Historic Village Gets a Fresh Breeze

One of the standout proposals of the evening was the decision to install new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment at the Historic Village. Local company Heinanen Engineering is generously donating two furnaces and two air conditioning units to be used in the freight house and museum, ensuring a comfortable environment year-round.

City Manager Paul Zelenak presented the proposal to the council, explaining that the total cost for installation would be approximately $33,870.23. According to the company’s quote, the HVAC units themselves would come at a price of $11,841.10. To expedite the process, Zelenak requested that the council waive the bidding requirement for the donation. He explained that while bidding could be performed for the installation, since the units themselves are a donation, it was necessary to bypass the typical bidding process for the equipment.

The council was clear in their support, with plans to formally accept the donated units once they’re ordered and the installation date is finalized. This generous donation will greatly enhance the amenities available in the Historic Village, making it an even more inviting place for visitors.

New Boardwalk to Enhance Outdoor Experience

In addition to HVAC upgrades, the city also took steps to improve the outdoor spaces by approving the installation of around 450 feet of boardwalk south of Michigan Seamless Tube. After reviewing multiple bids, Zelenak recommended the bid from LJ Construction, which came in as the lowest at $538,311.

“The metal bridge located between the two sections of the boardwalk will be evaluated by the contractor on site, and they will assess repairs needed to extend its life,” Zelenak shared with the council. This means the city is not only investing in new construction but is also committing to maintaining existing structures to enhance community safety and usability.

The funding for these projects will come primarily from the remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds allocated to help communities with ongoing recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Approximately $100,000 will be covered by the general fund, contributing to the overall financial plan for these projects.

What’s Next?

The construction is projected to commence after December 1. Depending on the weather, there may be a brief pause in action, with construction potentially resuming in the spring. The aim is to have everything wrapped up by mid-April, although there is a chance it could extend into the end of 2024 if circumstances permit. But the future of South Lyon is definitely looking brighter!

In a move that reflects the city council’s commitment to enhancing community spaces, all three motions regarding the HVAC installation and the boardwalk were approved unanimously. The public can look forward to seeing these improvements take shape, bringing more comfort and usability to beloved communal areas.

South Lyon is truly making strides towards creating a more welcoming and functional environment for all its residents. From increased comfort in the Historic Village to additional recreational opportunities through the new boardwalk, these projects signal a bright future for community engagement and enjoyment.