St. Joseph City Commissioners have approved hiring Abonmarche to do the engineering and design for the complete reconstruction of Upton Drive from the St. Joseph River to Momany Drive. At a Monday meeting, commissioners were told much depends on a patchwork of grants and low-interest loans coming through the state and federal government for the overall $6.85 million project to take place. City Engineer Tim Zebell told WSJM News a lot of funds are available thanks to work Whirlpool is doing in the area.
“Honestly, what kind of drove this, the opportunity, is the new Tech Center for Whirlpool,” Zebell said. “So, that Transportation Economic Development Fund, Category A grant, is because they are investing here and creating jobs. The Economic Development Administration grant is tied to the Palisades closure and being able to place people in jobs here as well.”
The cost for Abonmarche to do the design is $849,000, which was approved by commissioners Monday. Zebell says the project would be a complete reconstruction of the road, including all the underground infrastructure. That includes a water main under the St. Joseph River dating back to the 1950s. The work could also include a trail through the area. Zebell says if all goes well, construction could start next fall and finish in 2024.
