Hazel Park seeks federal funds for John R upgrades

Hazel Park city officials are working to get federal funds to improve John R Road and make streetscape and accessibility improvements.

James Finkley, director of the city’s Planning and Economic Development Department, said officials learned recently 11th District Congresswoman Haley Stevens has selected the John R project for a community funding grant.

The next hurdle, however, is when the request goes before a U.S House Appropriations subcommittee late this month.

“We took it as a good sign we made it through the first round and we’re hoping for the best,” Finkley said.

Hazel Park is requesting $490,000, which would cover the total cost of the revitalization project.

The city recently designated John R as its main street corridor through the community, from Eight Mile to 10 Mile roads.

Finkley said the project would revitalize John R with new benches, planters, seasonal flower baskets, and trash receptacles.

Additionally, all curb ramps at streets intersecting with John R would be made ADA compliant to increase accessibility.