Phase one of the City of Negaunee IOHT Lighting Enhancement Project

The City Negaunee is announcing that it will be moving forward with phase one of the City of Negaunee IOHT Lighting Enhancement Project. The project is expected to begin this summer and be completed mid-September to early October 2021.

The project includes the installation of 3000 feet of underground electrical conduit and thirteen new light fixtures to be placed along the trail. The project will start from Gold Street, pass by the new pavilion in Jackson Mine Park, and end where Merry Street was once located in Old Town.

Phase two of the project will pick up in 2022 where it left off and will continue for approximately 4200 feet and terminate at the Negaunee/Ishpeming city limits, with an additional 22-lights installed.

"We are very excited to hear about this project and glad to see it moving forward" said IOHT Administrator Carol Fulsher,

The IOHT Authority has been trying for the past several years to complete a lighted segment of trail from Negaunee into Ishpeming. However, the grants submitted were not successfully funded.

Fulsher said lighting the segment of trail will have many benefits, she hopes that users will be able to enjoy the trail for longer periods of time and that maybe new events or activities can be envisioned and carried out because of the enhancement.

“I can see night biking or walking, maybe even some nighttime snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. This provides more access and more opportunity,” Fulsher said.

“This is not only an opportunity for Negaunee to attract new trail users and visitors to the area.  It also allows us to provide additional value to our community. Anytime we can provide residents with new opportunities to engage in healthy activities is a plus”, City Manager Nate Heffron said.

The project will cost approximately $48,000. That includes $22,500 in underground boring to be performed by Northern Utility and our own Negaunee Electric Department will provide approximately $26,000 in parts/materials, equipment, and labor.

“Negaunee is committed to increasing recreational opportunities for both residents and visitors alike. Unique projects like this are what sets us apart as a premier location to live, work, and play, reported Heffron.

Questions concerning this release or attached directive may be directed to the attention of the City Manager, Nate Heffron at (906) 475-7700 ext. 11.