South Michigan News

State Representative Kathy Schmaltz has announced that the newly signed state budget will allocate funds to three significant projects in Jackson County. The initiatives are intended to support community development, preservation of local landmarks, and the expansion of recreational and housing resources.

“These investments will make a real difference for people throughout Jackson County,” said Schmaltz, R-Jackson. “From restoring a historic treasure to helping families experiencing homelessness and expanding access to outdoor recreation, each of these projects will improve quality of life in our community and attract visitors and opportunity to the region.”

The budget sets aside $1.5 million for the Cascades Restoration Project. This funding is part of a larger $3.5 million plan to restore the Cascades, a well-known man-made waterfall constructed in 1932. Planned improvements include repairing the concrete structure and relocating pumps from underground into an above-ground pump house for better sustainability and maintenance.

A separate grant of $1 million will go toward building a new family shelter at the Jackson Interfaith Shelter. The facility will be located on property already owned by the shelter and is designed to provide a safer environment specifically for parents and children working toward stability.

Additionally, $750,000 has been allocated for upgrades to the mountain bike trails at Ella Sharp Park. The City of Jackson intends to work with a professional trail-building company to redesign about 11 miles of existing trails, aiming to establish a more cohesive system that could eventually reach up to 18 miles—qualifying it as a regional destination. Plans also include launching a community “Bike Library” so residents and visitors can borrow bikes, helmets, and gear free of charge.

“I’m proud to go to bat for funding that directly supports local priorities and strengthens our community,” Schmaltz said. “These projects reflect what makes Jackson County special — a strong sense of community, a commitment to caring for one another, and a passion for preserving and improving the places we love.”