Commission backs MDOT Apple Avenue redesign and signals intent to seek city ownership after 2026 reconstruction

The Muskegon City Commission on June 10 adopted two linked resolutions: first, a resolution expressing support for the Michigan Department of Transportation’s (MDOT) 2026 reconstruction design for Apple Avenue that includes reduced travel lanes in parts of the corridor and a separated multiuse path along the south side; second, a resolution expressing the city’s desire to assume ownership of Apple Avenue after MDOT’s work is finished.

Dan Vanderheide, the city’s director of public works, outlined the design components and the city’s anticipated costs tied to the project. Vanderheide said the city anticipates budgeting about $3.8 million over the next two fiscal years for elements MDOT expects the city to fund. He provided a cost breakdown: roughly $1,750,000 from the sewer fund, $480,000 from the water fund, $1,400,000 for the multiuse path and associated road-related improvements assigned to the city, and $150,000 representing the city’s statutorily…