Foundations give city $3.7 million for repairs, upgrades

Three Midland foundations have given $3,666,000 to the City of Midland for projects including fire stations renovations, a streetscape revamp, new fire alarm systems at the senior housing complexes and a new roof on the Law Enforcement Center.

The money includes $3,016,000 from the Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation, $500,000 from the Rollin M. Gerstacker Foundation and $150,000 from the Charles J. Strosacker Foundation.

Dave Keenan, assistant city manager, said in response to economic challenges in recent years, the city has focused on service delivery and stabilizing its fund balance. This has left the city unable to dedicate money to some projects that now need attention. Keenan said the foundations provided very generous donations to fund these needs.

The projects include:

Public safety facility improvements: Updates to the citys three fire stations, each with various needs ranging from roof replacements and HVAC updates to remodeling outdated living quarters and locker rooms. The Law Enforcement Center needs a new roof and HVAC updates, as well as updates to the Emergency Operations Center. Foundation grants: $1,361,000.

Downtown Midland: Relocation and burying of electrical transmissions lines on Ashman Street, and improving the street and streetscape conditions on Ellsworth Street. Foundation grants: $1.25 million.

Senior housing: Upgrades to fire and panic alarm systems at Washington Woods and Riverside Place. Foundation grants: $475,000.

Municipal Service Center: Repaving and repairing the parking lots and driveways. Foundation grants: $530,000.

City Forest: Toboggan run renovation. Foundation grants: $50,000.

The Midland City Council has amended the city budget to reflect the donations and the upcoming spending related to the project. City Manager Jon Lynch said most of the work will be completed this calendar year, but some if it is significant work that may carry over into 2015.

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Foundations give city $3.7 million for repairs, upgrades