Mount Clemens Mayor Announces Urgent Overhaul of Main Street
UPDATE: Mount Clemens Mayor Laura Kropp just announced a transformative project for Main Street during her 2025 State of the City address, signaling a significant change for the city in the upcoming years. The overhaul, set for 2027, aims to enhance safety and aesthetics in the heart of the city, which serves as the county seat for Macomb County.
Mayor Kropp revealed that the reconfiguration will include a new boulevard with green space, enhanced crosswalks, and a dedicated bike lane connecting Shadyside Park to downtown. “We are going to reconfigure all of North and South Main Street,” she stated, emphasizing the need for a more visually appealing and safer roadway.
The announcement came during a packed event at the Emerald Theatre, attended by city officials, county representatives, and local businesses. The revitalization of Main Street is part of a broader initiative to improve city infrastructure, with Mayor Kropp noting the city has secured $79 million in grants over the past three years.
As part of the upcoming project, the existing left-turn lane will be eliminated, and new sidewalks will be installed, enhancing pedestrian safety. City Manager Gregg Shipman expressed optimism, stating, “What this will do is make Main Street more visually appealing and safer than the setup we have now.”
In addition to the Main Street project, Kropp highlighted other critical infrastructure improvements, including a $3 million rebuild of Grand Avenue and a $2.4 million asphalt and concrete patching program across various neighborhoods. These developments aim to reshape the city’s landscape and improve the quality of life for residents.
The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is also involved, with plans to resurface North Gratiot Avenue leading into the city, expected either next year or in 2027. The Main Street project will be partially funded through a Transportation Alternative Program (TAP) grant, which the city has applied for, ensuring that the revitalization of Main Street is not only a priority but also a funded initiative.
New City Hall and fire department facilities are also on the horizon, set to be located at Main Street and Cass Avenue. Construction for this project, along with the downtown revitalization program, is projected to be completed by 2026.
“The next couple of years around here is going to be nuts but fun,” said Michelle Weiss of the Downtown Development Authority, reflecting the excitement and anticipation surrounding these upcoming changes.
Additionally, the city has implemented a new downtown safety plan, funded by a Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG) grant, aimed at reducing traffic accidents and reconfiguring parking spaces to accommodate bicycle lanes.
Residents and guests at the State of the City address enjoyed local treats from Clementine’s Bakery and Champagne Chocolates, underscoring the city’s commitment to supporting local businesses during this transformational period.
As Mount Clemens gears up for these significant changes, the community is encouraged to stay informed and engaged with the ongoing developments that promise to reshape the city’s infrastructure and enhance public safety. Stay tuned for further updates as plans progress towards the ambitious 2027 Main Street overhaul.
