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Committee approves Allenale trail easement and awards restroom contract at Upper Makatawa
Summary
The committee approved an easement for the Allenale segment of the Explorers Trail (cost $2,100) and forwarded a $711,741 contract for a restroom building at Upper Makatawa Natural Area. Staff said construction funding is in place and the restroom will serve heavy park use; the easement work coordinates with MDOT and the Transportation Alternatives Program.
The Planning & Policy Committee approved two parks items and will forward both to the full Board of Commissioners.
Explorers Trail easement: The committee approved forwarding an easement agreement for the Stam property in Allenale Township for the Allenale segment of the Explorer’s Trail; staff said this is one of several easements needed to complete the segment and MDOT funding and the Transportation Alternatives Program will support future easement coordination and construction. The easement cost cited was $2,100 and staff indicated the segment is on track for construction in 2028 (possibly 2029).
Upper Makatawa restroom: The committee approved forwarding a contract with Midwest Construction Group to construct a new restroom building at the Upper Makatawa Natural Area, presented at a total contract cost of $711,741 (staff corrected an earlier, miscited number in the meeting packet). Staff said the facility responds to heavy mountain‑bike use and connects with the McIntyre Greenway; they estimated about 50,000 annual users at the park.
Both items passed on committee votes and will be placed on the Board’s agenda for final authorization. Staff noted dedication events and partner coordination are planned as work proceeds.
