A press conference was held on Wednesday to thank a state agency for helping a local community do some much needed upgrading.
The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality was publicly thanked by the Delhi Township Brownfield Redevelopment Authority for grant money.
The money, in the amount of $249,000, let the township start the Realize Cedar Project.
“I’d like to start by thanking the MDEQ for partnering with us on the Realize Cedar project which will redevelop Cedar Street,” said Howard Haas, Delhi Township Downtown Development Authority Executive Director. “This grant is an example of what can happen when public and private industry are on the same page and working toward a common goal. The soil remediation funded by this grant will protect public health and pave the way for a new development that will make the Cedar Street corridor more attractive for small businesses, pedestrians and shoppers.”
Some of the vacant parcels were contaminated by former businesses that had once owned the land, including a gas station and an auto repair shop.
The other parcels were found to be contaminated by fill material.
The Township has approved a Brownfield plan to address environmental cleanup necessary to protect public health and allow for redevelopment.
“Realize Cedar is a prime example of the type of project we look for when awarding grants to address environmental quality issues,” said Janet Michaluk, Brownfield Coordinator with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. “We are proud to partner with Delhi Township on this important project that will improve walkability and make the community more welcoming.”
The money is dogeared to fund the soil remediation necessary to move forward with redevelopment of Esker Square, which is at the 2000 block of S. Cedar Street.
“The Realize Cedar project is a hallmark of public-private partnership,” said DiAnne Warfield, member of the Delhi Township Board of Trustees. “Public input played a critical role in shaping the vision to make Delhi Township a more livable and walkable community. This project will improve pedestrian and vehicle safety and set the stage for private sector investment. This project is a win-win for all of the Township’s stakeholders and it will create a welcoming downtown that connects many of our community’s most enjoyed attractions.”
