At the direction of the Republic Township Board, the following document was written by Mr. Patrick Coleman of UP Engineers and Architects, Inc. in July 2004.

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Strategic Master Plan

Republic township

July 2004

The Republic Township Planning Commission began the development of a Master Plan in 2004. The purpose of this Strategic Master Plan is to create a prioritized guide for action to be used by the Planning Commission and Township Board for the next 3-5 years.

Republic Township faces many problems as the result of the loss of the Republic Mine. The loss of this employer and tax base has greatly affected the township residents, the township government and the school district. Although the mine has been closed for many years now, environmental remediation and disposition of CCI lands still continues.

Isolated from employment opportunities, many residents now commute to the Ishpeming-Marquette area for jobs. New residents, primarily retirees, are moving to the township to live on the many lakes and the Michigamme River. The natural environment of the township and the warm, friendly residents are its greatest assets.

The lack of local employment and the need to attract new residents to maintain the school system calls for a new development strategy for Republic Township, one based upon quality of life, the natural environment and the sense of community.

During three workshop planning sessions, the Township Planning Commission identified issues and opportunities. From these, projects have been identified. Some of these projects and ideas have been on the boards for years. Several result from the opportunity to aquire key land parcels from CCI. Other strategies revolve around the need to improve the township's "curb appeal" and desirability as a place to invest in and live.

PROJECTS

Michigamme River Dam

A dam on the Michigamme River is critical to maintain historic water levels and the "basin" as a recreational and residential amenity for the community.

Strategy

• Implement the dam project with funding already secured.

 

Munson Park expansion and development

Munson Park has historically been used by the community for a park. Now that CCI is selling land, the opportunity is there to aquire the Munson Park area and adjoining lands for a larger recreation area.

Strategies

• Identify desirable land/site area.
• Acquisition is eligible for up to 75% funding from the DNR Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) program.
• Recreation Committee has the lead on this project.

 

Downtown Improvements

The historic central business district of a community should be a focal point for Republic Township. The downtown is highly visible as one enters the community.

The downtown business area in north Republic needs attention. Several of the properties are in a run-down condition. The public space, such as sidewalks, parking areas and streets are also in need of improvements. making the downtown more appealing is critical to attracting new businesses and investment.

Strategies

• Meet with business owners and citizens to discuss needs and opportunities.
• Prepare a downtown plan to improve appearence and the business climate.
• Work with business owners to improve properties.
• Consider establishing a downtown development authority.
• Assign projects to the Economic Development Committee.

 

Community Cleanup

The urbanized areas of North and South Republic are visually impacted by poorly maintained property. These properties also affect the value and desirability of surrounding properties. The blight also detracts from the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that surround the town.

A considerable effort will be required to push for the clean-up of blighted and poorly maintained properties. The township has put into place ordinances to force property clean-up, now it is a matter of enforcement and prosecution.

Strategies

• Notify property owners of the new ordinances and set a deadline for resolving issues.
• Begin legal proceedings against the worst offenders.
• The Township Board has the lead on this program but needs support from residents.

 

Ski Trails

Cross country ski trails are a valued recreational asset by residents of northern communities. They also can attract tourists. The trails can be used for bridle paths and mountain bikes in summer months. Republic Township should work with ski enthusiasts to develop a ski trail system.

Strategies

• Acquire additional land in Section 1 through DNR Recreation Grant for ski trails and bridle paths.
• Assign project to the Recreation Committee

 

Winter Park: Sledding/Tubing/Ski Hill

Winter is the longest season in the U.P. Outdoor activities provide healthy recreation and help residents gain an appreciation for winter. A sledding facility is a low-cost recreation area that takes advantage of the terrain and snow of the region.

Strategies

• Assign project to the Recreation Committee.
• Identify volunteers or an organization to operate and maintain facility.
• Develop capital budget.
• Funding is possible through DNR Recreation Grant Progarm.

 

Improving existing beach/park facility on M-95

The existing beach on M-95 is an attractive area at the gateway to Republic. The beach is an important summer recreational facility, but needs some investment and updating.

Strategies

• Review existing plans and updates as needed.
• Funding is possible through DNR Recreation Grant Program.

 

Greenway and trails connecting North and South Republic

A multi-use trail connecting north and south Republic is desirable and would improve the qualty of life, as well as promote healthy lifestyles.

Strategies

• Identify routing and property owners.
• Water line R. O. W. may be suitable.
• Design criteria: bicycles, pedestrians, non-motorized, multi-use, etc.
• Preliminary engineering needed to identify cost and.or other feasibility.
• Funding is possible through MDOT Enhancement Grant Program.

 

Gateway to North and South Republic

The entrance or gateway to a community influences how residents and visitors perceive the town. Enhancement at both entrances to Republic are needed.

Strategies

• Improve image of town at vritical visual locations.
• MDOT Enhancement Grant Program.

 

Economic Develpoment

Republic Township greatly needs a pro-active approach to improve its economy. While there are limited opportunities for economic development, there are some potentials to consider.

Strategies

• Promote eco-tourism and silent sports (canoeing, kayaking, Nordic skiing).
• Explore using abandoned rail grades for recreation.
• Pursue high speed Internet connections.
• Become active in Lake Superior Community Partnership
• Expand Festival, Fishing derby, Ethnic Days, etc.
• Golf and the driving range is an opportunity.

 

Community Participation

A public meeting was held on June 28, 2004 to present the Strategic Master Plan to the Republic Community. The meeting included a presentation on the projects and priorities that had been developed by the Planning Commission. Participants provided additional comments and ideas, most of which were favorable to taking action to improve the township and the projects identified in the plan. Participants "voted" on the projects in order to gauge priorities. Listed below are the tallies:

Michigamme River Dam - 16 votes.

Downtown Improvements - 7 votes.

"Make a Community" - 6 votes.

Munson Park Expansion & Development - 4 votes.

Gateway to North & South Republic - 4 votes.

Hydro Dam - 1 vote.

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