ALGOMA, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Construction is underway in the City of Algoma to improve water quality, by filtering some of its storm runoff before it gets to Lake Michigan.
City leaders hope the effort will mean better conditions at Crescent Beach nearby.
Crews wasted little time Tuesday morning, working to dismantle much of the area at the northern end of Crescent Beach. Algoma Parks and Recreation Director Sara Robertson tells FOX 11 it’s a significant change.
“This project is taking place right in front of the community building, or what locals call the youth club. So it will impact the parking design will change a little bit, and the road will become a one-way road. So that will take some getting used to.”
The city’s new project diverts storm water away from the beach area.
Public Works Director Matt Murphy tells FOX 11 two bio-retention ponds will use native plants and grasses to help clean the runoff before it gets to the lake.
“Remove a lot of the suspended solids out of the water. Aggregate, sand, salt, winter chemicals that fall on the road in the storm sewer. That’s what the retention ponds are meant to do.”
City leaders say some trees will be cut down, but new ones will take their place. The pavilion will also be taken down.
“We’d like to make a new area for people to picnic, and recreate by the water,” said Robertson.
City Administrator Jared Heyn says Lake Michigan needs to be protected.
“Really, the goal is cleaning our storm water and our urban runoff entering Lake Michigan, and as a result of that, we should have a cleaner beach.”
Algoma city leaders say project costs about $400,000 with state and federal grants covering the price tag.
Work is expected to be completed by mid-November.
Comments