Infrastructure projects are key to safe roads, clean drinking water, and a thriving city, but they are challenging for residents and businesses who must navigate the construction season. Closed streets, detours, and temporary water shutoffs disrupt routines, often leaving communities frustrated by the lack of clear information.
Recognizing these concerns, the city of
Muskegon Department of Public Works (DPW) is working to make sure residents understand what’s happening, why these projects are necessary, and how to prepare.
Officials are using public meetings, digital updates, and direct community outreach to get this message out, with the goal of making the 2025 construction season as smooth as possible for residents.
“We are excited to move forward with these critical infrastructure improvements that will benefit our residents and strengthen our community for years to come,” says Dan VanderHeide, director of the Muskegon DPW. “These projects represent our ongoing commitment to providing high-quality services and maintaining a safe, vibrant city.”
Infrastructure upgrades this year include road reconstructions, bridge replacements, and lead service line replacements — all vital to improving safety and quality of life. However, because major construction can cause significant disruptions, the DPW is prioritizing early and frequent communication with those affected.
Meeting opened communication channels
In February, the city held an open house that allowed residents to review plans, ask questions, and voice concerns directly to city officials. Residents who couldn’t attend the open house or have follow-up questions can visit the DPW website to see detailed documents for the projects. Each document features a specific contact person who will be available to address questions or concerns throughout the construction season.
“Attendees engaged in productive conversations with city staff, gaining valuable insights into planned projects,” says Deborah Santiago-Sweet, community engagement manager for the city of Muskegon. “While the event had an intimate turnout, with eight residents, it fostered meaningful one-on-one discussions, particularly with property owners directly impacted by the construction.
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The aerial photo shows the Muskegon Department of Public Works at work on the Sanford Street Lead Service Line Replacement project after completion.
She adds that residents appreciated the opportunity to ask questions and receive detailed information about their properties.
"Overall, the open house was a positive and informative experience, reinforcing the city's commitment to transparency and community engagement," Santiago-Sweet says.
The city is also communicating through door-to-door outreach, neighborhood association meetings, social media updates, email newsletters, and website resources.
The city’s major construction projects for 2025 include road reconstructions, resurfacing, bridge replacements, and lead service line upgrades.
Planned projects include:
- Full reconstruction of First Street (Hamilton to Apple) and Southern Avenue (Lakeshore to Seaway).
- Resurfacing of Sun Dolphin Road and Oak Avenue.
- Replacement of the Amity Street Bridge.
- Lead service line replacements in the Campbell Field, Sheldon Park, and Oakview neighborhoods, as well as along Apple Avenue.
Water service upgrades
One of the most significant efforts this year is the replacement of outdated lead service lines, which is critical for ensuring safe drinking water.
The DPW is trying to minimize disruption by coordinating directly with homeowners to schedule water shutoffs at convenient times and working to make sure any disturbed roads, sidewalks, or lawns are restored promptly.
For those living in neighborhoods where lead service line replacements are planned, the DPW will use this communication strategy:
- Advance notifications: Before work begins, residents will receive door hangers with clear timelines and expectations.
- Community meetings: DPW staff are attending neighborhood association meetings to provide in-depth updates and answer questions.
- Online information hub: The city’s website includes detailed project maps, timelines, and contact information for project managers.
- Real-time updates: Road closures and detours will be shared through the city’s social media platforms and email alerts.
Despite the unavoidable inconveniences of construction, Muskegon’s infrastructure projects are expected to bring significant long-term benefits for residents and businesses.
For homeowners, the upgrades will lead to cleaner, safer drinking water by removing lead service lines; higher property values due to modernized infrastructure; and fewer water service disruptions from failing pipes.
For businesses and visitors, the improvements will strengthen Muskegon’s reputation as a city committed to long-term sustainability; support economic growth by ensuring reliable infrastructure for businesses; and enhance tourism and community appeal through well-maintained roads and utilities.
Construction has started on some projects. Residents can expect regular updates on road closures, detours, and project progress through:
- The city’s website at muskegon-mi.gov.
- Social media updates from the city.
- Neighborhood meetings for residents in affected areas.
- Direct phone and email support for residents with specific questions.
“The City of Muskegon is committed to transparency and community engagement as we undertake these vital improvements,” says Santiago-Sweet. “We thank residents for their patience and support as we work to enhance our city’s infrastructure.”
For more information or to speak with a project representative, contact the Department of Public Works at 231-724-4100 or visit
muskegon-mi.gov.