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Council gives soft OK to spend up to $300,000 to upgrade two MDOT intersections to mast-arm signals
Summary
The council authorized staff to commit up to $300,000 to MDOT for mast-arm traffic-signal upgrades at two intersections (US 24 & Lorraine; M-125 & Noble), noting costs have risen since earlier estimates and that the vote constitutes a soft, good-faith commitment ahead of a formal contract.
Monroe City Council voted to provide a soft commitment of up to $300,000 in city funding to MDOT for mast-arm traffic-signal upgrades at two intersections, with engineering warning the figure reflects increased contractor and material costs since earlier estimates.
Patrick Lewis, director of engineering and public services, explained mast-arm assemblies are sturdier, reduce wind-related knockdowns and improve safety and maintenance access. He said MDOT requested a soft commitment before beginning design work; the formal contract would follow after design is complete, likely within 6–12 months. Lewis noted the city's prior experience with mast-arm upgrades and that earlier per-intersection estimates (about $80,000 each three years ago) have increased because of supply and contractor-cost changes.
Council members questioned the jump in estimated costs and asked for the detailed cost breakdown in the packet. Councilwoman Jermaine moved to authorize the director of engineering and public services to commit up to $300,000 on behalf of the city; the motion passed on unanimous roll call.
Council members said they support upgrading corridor aesthetics and resilience but asked staff to return with firm contract numbers before final funding is encumbered.
