6th Street Reconstruction-Holland, Michigan

The City of Holland initiated the renovation and reconstruction of 6th Street, extending from River Avenue to Columbia Avenue, with the goal of enhancing both pedestrian and vehicle accessibility. Wightman was tasked with addressing several key design and infrastructure needs. The project included the addition of a dedicated bike lane, the installation of an advanced snow-melt system, on-street parking, and the upgrade of the storm sewer with an underdrain. Additional improvements involved the construction of a new subbase, aggregate base, HMA (hot-mix asphalt) surfacing, and the restoration of sidewalks and ramps to improve accessibility.

In conjunction with the 6th Street renovation, the City also commissioned the reconstruction of College Avenue between 8th and 6th Street. This portion of the project featured the replacement of the aging water main and the integration of a snow-melt system to ensure clear, safe pathways year-round.

The addition of the snow-melt system offered several benefits, including:

• Enhanced Safety: By keeping roads and sidewalks clear of snow and ice, snow-melt systems significantly reduce the risk of accidents for both pedestrians and vehicles. This is especially important in high-traffic areas where safety is a priority.

• Reduced Maintenance Costs: Traditional snow removal methods involve plowing, salting, and manual labor, all of which can be costly and time-consuming. A snow-melt system minimizes the need for these services, saving the City and residents long-term maintenance costs.

• Improved Traffic Flow: Snow-melt systems help to maintain smooth traffic flow, as roads remain clear even during heavy snowfall. This reduces congestion, delays, and accidents caused by icy conditions.

• Environmental Benefits: Reducing the need for salt and chemicals to melt snow helps to protect the environment, as these substances can damage plants, water supplies, and infrastructure over time.

• Prolonged Pavement Life: Continuous exposure to snow and ice, along with freeze-thaw cycles, can cause significant wear and tear on pavement. Snow-melt systems help prevent this by maintaining a more stable surface temperature, extending the life of the road.

• Convenience for Businesses and Public Services: Snow-melt systems ensure that streets remain accessible for deliveries, emergency services, and public transportation, leading to fewer disruptions for businesses and residents during winter months.

• Aesthetic Improvement: With a snow-melt system, streets remain clean and free of snow piles, improving the overall appearance of urban areas, which can be a boost for tourism and local commerce.

The reconstruction project completed by Wightman truly stands out, with clean, smooth surfaces and well-planned spaces inviting everyone to navigate the City with ease!