Canton Township Receives Nearly $7 Million in State Grants for Community Projects
_Canton Township, MI_ — Canton Township officials announced on Tuesday that the community will receive a significant boost with nearly $7 million in state grants. These funds will be utilized for several key projects aimed at enhancing the well-being and safety of residents. The projects include the construction of a pedestrian bridge over Interstate 275, renovations at the Summit on the Park, and upgrades to the Sheldon School to benefit vulnerable children in the area.
Funding Insights
The funding was secured thanks to the collaborative efforts of State Representative Ranjeev Puri and State Senator Dayna Polehanki. Canton Township Supervisor Anne Marie Graham Hudak expressed her appreciation for the support, highlighting the various ways these funds will improve the community. “The […] pedestrian bridge will improve a treacherous path over Interstate 275 traversed by hundreds of Canton residents each week,” Hudak stated.
Project Breakdowns
The allocated budget for the projects includes:
- $3.25 million for the pedestrian bridge over I-275 at Palmer Road.
- $2.5 million designated for the Summit renovation project.
- $1 million aimed at transforming part of the Sheldon School for social services.
Pedestrian Bridge Over I-275
The proposed Palmer Road pedestrian bridge aims to significantly enhance pedestrian safety. Currently, residents, including frequent visitors to the Muslim Community of the Western Suburbs, face a dangerous path along Palmer Road to access facilities such as the Medina Activity Center (MAC) located west of the overpass. With the newly planned bridge, officials expect a safer and more welcoming experience for walkers and non-vehicle users of the road.
Renovations at the Summit
Next on the list is the Summit renovation project, which will receive $2.5 million. Currently, the Club 55+ senior program operates in just over 1,500 square feet. The upcoming renovations will expand this space by upgrading roughly 10,600 square feet of the existing facility. The improvements will create a more accommodating environment for a wide range of activities such as billiards, shuffleboard, exercise classes, card games, and cooking classes. Hudak noted, “The new Canton Senior Center in the Summit will greatly expand activity and programming space for seniors.”
Transforming the Sheldon School
The final project involves a $1 million renovation of the Sheldon School, aiming to create a dedicated facility for the Kids-TALK program, which provides essential services for abused and neglected children in Western Wayne County. This new space is expected to become a safe environment for children to be interviewed and to support their emotional and social health. The location will be beneficial, being close to the new Youth Center, where Growth Works, Inc. will also be located in the future.
Community Impact
These projects not only aim to enhance safety and recreational opportunities but also seek to provide essential social services to vulnerable families and children within the community. Canton Township officials are optimistic about the positive changes these enhancements will bring. As Supervisor Hudak expressed, “This funding is a big step forward for Canton, ensuring better infrastructure and support for our residents.”
In summary, Canton Township is gearing up for significant improvements thanks to state funding, which will ultimately create a friendlier and more connected community for all its residents.
