Goodrich Pathway to take shape

Goodrich – Next month, village residents will have the opportunity to learn more about a path being installed in their front yards.
The Pathway project is an idea that was tossed around for years, says Goodrich Village Adminstrator Jakki Sidge.
A path connecting the Goodrich area was designed ‘years and years ago? but failed for lack of funding.
Approximately four years ago, the project was revived when Sidge requested consideration for Surface Transportation Program rural funds.
‘The idea never really went away,? said Sidge. ‘It was part of our recreation master plan.?
The Pathway project is a joint venture between the Village of Goodrich, Atlas Township, and Goodrich Schools.
The village portion will start just west of the Goodrich Country Club golf course, extending west to the village limits where the speed limit changes.
The Pathway is designed to extend up Hegel Road, ending at Oaktree Elementary in Atlas Township.
The non-motorized path will connect with the M-15 walkway installed during a Goodrich beautification project.
The total cost for the pathway, design, construction, and engineering in the village and township is estimated at $717,000. Goodrich is putting aside $130,000 in matching funds for the project; Atlas is designating $30,000.
‘Goodrich has the leadership role, we’re following along,? said Paul Amman, Atlas Township supervisor.
Construction is expected to start in spring or summer of 2005, depending on weather and whether federal funds are delayed, said Sidge.
A public informational meeting regarding the Pathway project will take place at 6:30 p.m. June 14 at the Goodrich -Atlas Lyceum Building community room, located at 10237 Hegel Road above the Goodrich Library. A public budget hearing and the village council meeting are scheduled to follow the Pathway meeting.