The City of Traverse City has secured a $1 million state grant to support the FishPass project at the Union Street Dam in downtown Traverse City, construction on which is expected to start in June.

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has awarded a $1 million Dam Risk Reduction Grant to the project. The grant will "help to close a funding gap created by increased project costs associated with delays in the project timeline," according to a city release.

"Construction will begin with critical 'wet' work elements, including dam replacement and fish passage channel development, starting in June 2024 and is expected to finish by 2026," the release states. "Simultaneously, efforts to finalize costs and funding for 'dry' elements such as an educational facility and landscaping enhancements will be underway, with construction slated to begin in 2026 or earlier. This phased approach ensures that all project elements will be completed effectively and on schedule."

City Manager Liz Vogel says the grant is "another step toward our strategy to secure funding in full for the FishPass. We eagerly anticipate seeing the project come to life this spring, as replacing the Union Street dam is crucial for public safety."