BROOKLYN, Mich. (News 10) – A long-awaited pathway connecting Columbia schools in Brooklyn is moving into the construction phase, with work expected to begin in early 2027.
The U.S. Department of Transportation is providing more than $1.4 million toward the Safe Routes to School project, which will create a 3.1-mile nonmotorized trail connecting Columbia Elementary School to Columbia High School.
The project is designed to give students a safer way to walk or bike between schools.
The Village of Brooklyn and state Sen. Sue Shink also secured $450,000 in additional state funding. The Village of Brooklyn and Columbia Charter Township are providing local funding for the project.
The local partners have worked with the Jackson County Department of Transportation, which is overseeing the engineering and construction of the trail.
Tree removal is expected to begin during the winter of 2027 to minimize disturbance to federally and state-protected species. That work is expected to be completed by mid-April.
Construction within the village, including along Main Street and near the elementary schools, is scheduled to begin after the school year ends in June.
The entire project is expected to be completed by Sept. 3, 2027.
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