CADILLAC — With fall and winter weather heading to Northern Michigan, we wanted to check in on the failing culvert in downtown Cadillac to see if the City has any answers.
For years, the Clam River culvert under Mitchell Street and the surrounding parking lots has been deteriorating. It’s most evident at Wexford Jewelers, where you can see large potholes and safety barricades.
We talked to Wexford Jewelers ahead of winter last year and during the spring thaw. Each time their concerns have been the same – nothing is being done, and it’s only getting worse.
While businesses and leaders from the local to state level have been working to find a solution, debate over where the responsibility lies has slowed the process. Still, the threat of flooding and damage to homes and businesses seems to be creating pressure to get this fixed.
“The City is very, very fortunate to have some incredible collaborations going on with the Chamber of Commerce, with the State of Michigan, and hopefully with our federal government...to help come up with the necessary dollars. The State of Michigan actually is looking at a special appropriation, [specifically] to help address this issue,” said Marcus Peccia, Cadillac City Manager.
Peccia said he expects more specifics answers available as soon as this fall.