MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - Every year, the Meridian Township official identify where road and sidewalk work needs to be done. This year, the Township will improve about 5 miles worth of roadwork and about 30-40 sidewalks.

"I think everyone recognizes and understands the importance of streets and sidewalks. Although they are big ticket items, they end up costing everyone either directly for a sidewalk or through a millage or through a gas tax. It's just important; that infrastructure is vital to not only safe passage for our pedestrians and traffic, but also for our economy," said Derek Perry, Meridian Township Assistant Township Manager/Director of Public Works.

Perry also stated that the road improvements this year will cost about $600,000. The Township will use money from a Township road millage, the general fund, and money from the Ingham County Road Department to help fund this project. Some of that money will also help fund sidewalk repairs, however, most of that funding will come from property owners.

Both projects this year are expected to be finished by September or October.