Westland Council approves $400K sidewalk project for Wildwood Elementary access

The Westland City Council meeting on April 21, 2025, focused on two significant issues: the approval of a sidewalk project along Cherry Hill Road and the purchase of a new ambulance for the fire department.

The council discussed the urgent need to address gaps in the sidewalk on Cherry Hill Road, particularly between Wayne Road and Wildwood. Council members highlighted the importance of this stretch for students walking to Wildwood Elementary. The proposed project aims to connect the existing sidewalk, enhancing safety for children and residents who frequently traverse the area. Councilman Hornbuckle emphasized the project's alignment with the city's "walk and roll" initiative, which promotes safe walking routes. The estimated cost for this project is $400,000, and the council expressed gratitude to the Department of Public Services for providing a detailed cost breakdown.

In addition to the sidewalk project, the council approved the purchase of a new ambulance for the fire department, not to exceed $293,943. This ambulance will replace a 2017 model that has exceeded the recommended service life for frontline vehicles. The funding for this purchase will come from capital improvement funds allocated for the new fire station. The fire chief explained that the city has been increasing its ambulance service capacity due to high demand, with studies indicating that a significant percentage of the time, ambulances are unavailable when residents call 911.

Both initiatives reflect the council's commitment to improving public safety and infrastructure in Westland. The sidewalk project aims to create safer routes for children, while the new ambulance purchase is part of a strategy to enhance emergency response capabilities. The council's decisions are expected to positively impact the community, ensuring safer travel for residents and more reliable emergency services.