State Rep. Mike Harris this month secured $834,400 through the state budget for pedestrian safety infrastructure in Clarkston. The state funding will support construction projects to make the community more walkable and accessible.

“This state investment will support a Clarkston community that is actively trying to improve local infrastructure for residents and visitors,” said Harris, R-Waterford. “I’m proud to help any community with the insight to look inward, identify areas of improvement, and explore ways to make those changes. This project will greatly improve Clarkston by addressing aging infrastructure that is difficult to navigate. Our communities should be safe and walkable, and I’m glad we can help Clarkston make that happen.”

The project includes construction of new sidewalks, curbing, and driveways in the downtown blocks. The upgrades will prioritize safety and walkability in the downtown area, ensuring all improvements are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. City officials have said existing sidewalks and driveways are badly deteriorated, sloping, and riddled with trip hazards.

“The City of the Village of Clarkston is sincerely grateful to Representative Mike Harris and the State of Michigan for funding our 2027 LDSI project to repair and replace downtown sidewalks and driveway aprons that have deteriorated over time, creating trip hazards and areas that do not meet ADA accessibility standards,” said Clarkston City Manager Jonathan Smith. “This significant infrastructure project would simply not have been possible within the constraints of our regular municipal budget. We greatly appreciate this investment in the safety, accessibility, and vitality of our downtown for residents and visitors alike.”

###