MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - On Thursday, December 19th, the Ingham County Road Department along with members from its transportation planning consultant, DLZ, Inc., held a public information meeting from 4 pm to 7 pm at the Central Fire Station in Okemos.

The purpose of the meeting was to invite the public and inform them about an environmental assessment and preferred alternative to replace the existing, aging bridges on Okemos Road, that overlooks the Red Cedar River north of Mount Hope Road in Meridian Township.

Those who attended were able to view project information and ask questions regarding details of the project and voice any of their concerns or opinions.

Bill Conklin, Managing Director for the Ingham County Road Department, looked forward to the replacement of this bridge and the benefits it will bring residents and the community.

"I think people will find it to have a lot of conveniences for pedestrians," said Conklin. "There will be of course the existing green, truss pedestrian bridge on the west side, will remain in place, on the east side, the new bridge will have a 10 foot walkway, a barrier separated from the roadway for safety and convenience to continue using the path on that side."

Conklin also mentioned that there will be pathway underneath the bridge, connecting Wonch and Ferguson parks.

In addition to working with Meridian Township's Parks and Recreation Department, the Ingham County Road Department will also work closely with the Michigan State Historic Preservation Office, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes & Energy (EGLE), Michigan's Department of Transportation (MDOT) and Federal Highway Administration regarding environmental and funding related factors.

Construction is set to start in Spring of 2021. Additional information on the construction of this project will be provided starting next year on the Ingham County Road Department website.