Safe Routes to Schools pathways in Kingsford are good for all forms of active transportation. The project, started in 2019 and now completed, covered Pyle Drive and Hooper and Balsam street. Funding from the Michigan Department of Transportation for that work totaled nearly $500,000. (Daily News files)

IRON MOUNTAIN — Plans are taking shape for a Safe Routes to School grant application that will make it safer to walk or bike to school in Iron Mountain.

The plan would mainly improve sidewalks around the high school campus and along Fifth Street, leading to North Elementary School, according to City Manager Jordan Stanchina.

Talks are ongoing, but Iron Mountain Public Schools envisions a project of roughly $700,000, he said. About a year ago, the district had discussed a $2 million plan.

The Safe Routes to School program offers a 100% grant for infrastructure, but the city would need to cover engineering costs.

School representatives are expected to attend a council meeting to further explain the project. Since the city has a financial commitment, it’s important for the council to give input, Stanchina said during Monday’s council meeting.

The application deadline is in June.

In Kingsford, a Safe Routes to School project that began in 2019 improved sidewalks and pathways mainly on Pyle Drive and Hooper and Balsam street. Funding from the Michigan Department of Transportation for that work totaled nearly $500,000.

In other action Monday, the city council:

— By teleconference, heard a report from Danielle Hoppe of Andrews, Hooper and Pavlik PLC on the city’s 2024-25 fiscal year audit. No significant risks with audit procedures were found. The city’s net pension obligation decreased by approximately $1.9 million, while its total other post-employment benefit liability increased by $1.2 million.

— Appointed Steve Harris to a three-year term on the Board of Review, replacing Theresa Giuliani, who did not reapply.

— Received notice that Shane Visintainer, crew leader of the water department, will retire from city employment effective Jan. 30.

— Authorized seeking bids to replace pumps on a sewage lift station on Margaret Street, along with the railings that support them, and the control panel. While the work wasn’t budgeted, by the time it is bid and installed it will nearly coincide with the new budget year that begins in June, Stanchina said.

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Jim Anderson can be reached at 906-774-2772, ext. 85226, or janderson@ironmountaindailynews.com.