MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - A drain running through several cities, including Meridian Township, could cause future flooding and sink holes if not fixed.

After the Smith Drain underwent an inspection by the Ingham County Drain Commissioner's Office it was discovered that the drain flow was affected by bank erosion. Although this can be fixed through regular maintenance, Meridian Township's Assistant Township Manager/Director of Public Works & Engineering Derek Perry said more serious problems exist that require more than just a quick fix.

"The crossing under Jolly Road physically needs to be replaced and that's an issue that everyone recognizes needs to be fixed sooner rather than later," Perry said.

The Smith Drain Project is still in the early stages but is anticipated to eventually fix and replace collapsed and restricted pipes that have caused sinkholes and flooding that could effect businesses near the drain.

Perry said the only way this project can move forward is if the Ingham County Drain Commissioner is petitioned.

"Potentially, If the project was never petitioned to the Drain Commissioner's office, ultimately the infrastructure will fail," Perry said.

Meridian Township along with Alaiedon Township, the City of Lansing, Michigan Department of Transportation and the Ingham County Road Department are all stakeholders in this project.