MDOT and city of Marquette complete jurisdictional transfer

Contact: Dawn Garner 906-485-6322 ext. 112

Agency: Transportation

November 9, 2005 -- The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and the city of Marquette made the jurisdictional transfer of three roadways official this morning by removing the signs along US-41 Business Route (US-41 BR) in downtown Marquette.

"This exchange of roadways will be of great benefit to both MDOT and the city," said Randy VanPortfliet, MDOT Superior Region engineer. "We can both focus on what we do best, which means the public ultimately will benefit from the move."

"This allows the city to reconstruct Washington Street with Marquette's unique, hometown flair in mind," says acting City Manager Judy Akkala.

Marquette now has jurisdiction over US-41 BR and M-554, while MDOT has assumed jurisdiction over McClellan Avenue from M-553 to US-41.

"MDOT has been able to connect the US-41 and M-553 trunklines," said Andy Sikkema, Ishpeming Transportation Service Center manager. "This will allow us to focus on improving the commercial traffic flow through the area."

As part of the agreement, the city will receive $2.5 million from the state to complete a construction project that is planned for US-41 BR in 2007.

"In addition to the $2.5 million received from the state for this project, the city will receive $71,000 annually to add to its major street fund for maintenance and snow removal." Akkala said. "At a time when the city faces ever-shrinking revenues, this additional income will make a significant, positive impact for our community."

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