Government
State gets grant to fix outdated storm sewers
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By NICK MCWHERTER
Capital News Service
LANSING- Outdated storm water treatment facilities in southeast Michigan may find relief in a recent federal grant that will use a variety of green initiatives to lessen the burden on these facilities. The grant will assist in many ways, including analyzing and creating rain gardens, natural vegetation, flood plains and natural swales, and their capabilities throughout the region. The Southeast Michigan Council of Governments was awarded a $2.8 million “Sustainable Communities” grant through the Department of Housing and Urban Development. One priority is expanding on green initiatives in the region, said Chuck Hersey, leader of the plan and policy group at the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments. Shrinking budgets have contributed to the problem, said James Clift, policy director for the Michigan Environmental Council.