Blue Star Drain District & Sidewalk Improvements

The Blue Star Highway Drain is an infrastructure project designed to address drainage issues along Blue Star Hwy. In coordination with future sidewalk improvements, this project will enhance public safety, health, and infrastructure throughout the Saugatuck Township community.

Project Background

On May 11, 2022, a petition was filed to locate, establish, and construct the Blue Star Highway Drain.
Following a Board of Determination meeting by the Allegan County Drain Commission in July 2022, the Board voted in favor of the project, declaring it necessary and conducive to public health, convenience, and welfare.
The project has since been completed, successfully improving drainage in the designated area.

Purpose and Benefits

The Blue Star Highway Drain was constructed to:

Alleviate drainage issues within the designated Drainage District
Improve public health and safety by reducing standing water and flood risks
Support infrastructure improvements, including a potential sidewalk along Blue Star Highway for enhanced pedestrian safety

Drainage District Map

Sidewalk Improvement Plan

Saugatuck Township is concurrently developing a preliminary plan to install 5-foot sidewalks on the east side of Blue Star Highway, north of the Old Allegan Road intersection. This sidewalk project will be coordinated with the Blue Star Drain to ensure efficiency and minimize future disruption.

Project Scope

The combined Blue Star Drain & Sidewalk proposal includes:

ADA ramp installation at the northeast corner of the Old Allegan Road roundabout
Enclosing the roadside ditch from 3277 to 3319 Blue Star Hwy
Mid-road pedestrian crossing with signage, lighting, and ADA ramps on both sides of Blue Star Hwy
Boardwalk construction over the stream north of Starlite Resort
Retaining wall installation south of North Street/134th Avenue
ADA ramp installation on the south side of North Street

Why This Matters

This project reflects top community priorities from the Blue Star Corridor Safety Plan and the Non-Motorized Infrastructure Master Plan, including:

Better connectivity for residents, businesses, and visitors
Safer pedestrian access
Expanded walkability along key roadways

Next Steps

Engineering, design, and permitting are currently underway. Public updates will be shared as the project moves forward.

Stay tuned for more details and opportunities to participate in the planning process.