SOUTH HAVEN, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Repairs to South Haven north marina are turning out to be more expensive than initially anticipated.
Assistant City Manager Kate Hosier said at a city council meeting on Monday that infrastructure upgrades and other measures could cost the city between $1.5 and $1.7 million according to a consulting firm.
South Haven and other communities along Lake Michigan are bracing from the impact of historically high lake levels that have put stress on homeowners and local businesses.
The elevated water levels on the lake and Black River pose an especially high threat to the north marina, where the electrical system components could cause electrocution if they become breached.
A field survey conducted this winter showed electrical leakage occurring where wires have been sliced, and issues stemming from partially or fully submerged junction boxes near the water.
Previous estimates to address the rising water levels at the marina placed the total cost of upgrading the electrical grid at $300,000. Hosier says the newly assessed project would include a total revamp featuring the installation of electrical panels, new power lines, and coverings to protect the infrastructure.
The firm Edgewater Resources is being contracted to carry out the repairs and make upgrades to the marina. The city manager’s office is expected to brief city council members on additional details of the project during an upcoming May 18th meeting.
South Haven previously decided to close the northside municipal marina for the entire 2020 boating season, offering all of the 97 slip holders the option of either receiving a full refund or applying this year’s rental for the 2021 season.
In February the city said it was planning to spend $1.2 million to prevent sewage overflow from a wastewater treatment plant threatened by the rising Black River. That project would involve raising pavement around the plant and placing a concrete barrier around the facility to prevent discharge.
