Village Wants To Install New Floating Docks

Low water levels on the Straits of Mackinac have led the Mackinaw City Village Council to pursue a project to replace standing docks with floating docks at the Village Marina. At its meeting Thursday, February 1, Council approved $17,000 for an engineering study to determine costs and procedures for installing the new docks. The expense will be matched by the state and the study will be conducted by the Department of Natural Resources.

Water levels have decreased dramatically, said trustee Sandra Planisek, and floating docks will work better with changing water levels. Low water has put some boats at eye level with the docks, she noted, so floating docks will make it easier for people to get on and off their boats.

Council also approved a site plan for a new B.C. Pizza restaurant in the village. Rob and Heather Aukeman, who own the B.C. Pizza in St. Ignace, will build a new facility on Central Avenue in Mackinaw City.

The Village will receive $173,614.20 for sidewalks, light poles, and sod for landscaping along Louvigny Street. The federal government is providing $735,317 for road construction projects in Mackinaw City, Tuscola County, Vassar, and Mayville. The Michigan Department of Transportation will administer the transportation enhancement grants, which can also be used for landscapes, streetscapes, and bicycle path development. The funds can fund up to 80 percent of a project.