Algoma City Council moves to install rain gardens

ALGOMA – Crescent Beach could soon see important environmental upgrades thanks to a new grant application authorized by the city council.

At a special meeting on April 25 the council unanimously passed Resolution 1226-2025, allowing City Administrator Murphy to formally apply for an Outdoor Recreation Grant aimed at enhancing the beach area and its water management systems.

The proposed project focuses on installing rain gardens near the outfalls at Crescent Beach.

Unlike the traditional retention pond recently built in front of the Youth Club, the rain gardens are designed to naturally filter runoff water before it reaches the beach.

While they won’t eliminate 100% of suspended solids, they will significantly improve water quality by capturing and treating pollutants more effectively.

Administrator Murphy explained that the total grant amount would fall between $460,000 and $470,000 with funding coming from multiple sources.

The Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program, a state initiative supporting conservation and recreation projects, would contribute approximately $44,000.

Additional state and federal funds are also expected to support the project.

As part of the application, the city will provide a $5,000 match, which will be covered through in-kind contributions, primarily in the form of city labor.

Council member A. Johnson moved to adopt the resolution, with J. Ortlieb seconding.

The resolution passed on a 7-0 roll call vote, clearing the way for the grant application to move forward.

If successful, the project would represent another step toward making Crescent Beach not only a more enjoyable place for residents and visitors, but also a healthier part of the city’s watershed.