Grand Rapids Secures State Grant for Stormwater Resiliency, Approves Sludge Agreement

Grand Rapids Secures State Grant for Stormwater Resiliency, Approves Sludge AgreementThe Grand Rapids City Commission has approved a $300,000 grant from the Michigan Department of Great Lakes and Energy to develop a Stormwater Resiliency Plan, alongside a new regional wastewater sludge processing agreement.

City Commission accepted a $300,000 EGLE grant to formulate a Stormwater Resiliency Plan.

Commissioners approved an agreement to accept and process wastewater sludge from the City of Wyoming.

A contract for Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF) improvements was awarded to Stedfast Construction, Inc. for up to $288,770.

Three reappointments were confirmed to the Grand Valley Regional Biosolids Authority.

During its June 16, 2026 meeting, the Grand Rapids City Commission advanced several key water and wastewater initiatives, highlighted by regional cooperation and state-backed stormwater planning. The Commission formally accepted a $300,000 grant award from the Michigan Department of Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE). The funding is earmarked for the development of a comprehensive Stormwater Resiliency Plan for the city. On the wastewater front, the Commission approved a strategic agreement with the neighboring City of Wyoming to accept and process its wastewater sludge. To further support regional biosolids management, the city also confirmed the reappointments of Molly Clarin, Wayne Jernberg, and James Ouzts to the Grand Valley Regional Biosolids Authority. In addition to regional agreements, the city is investing in its own treatment infrastructure. Commissioners awarded a contract to Stedfast Construction, Inc. for cold storage building improvements at the city's Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF). The base contract is for $111,875, with a total authorized amount not to exceed $288,770. Other utility actions included the acceptance of utility easements for the Irene and Linda Water Main Extension project, totaling $9,290. All items were approved as part of the Commission's regular agenda proceedings.