Trail work locally starts in March

BESSEMER – The Gogebic Range Trail Authority has reported that a $450,000 state budget appropriation has been allotted for ORV trail work between Wakefield and Marenisco.  GRTA President Steve Hamilton said the project already had been approved for $250,000 from the state’s trail permit program. The new funds will bring the project total to $600,000.  On Monday, Hamilton told the Globe that the money will cover completion of construction within an ORV trail known as the State Line Route. Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources will execute the work, with Ruotsala Construction of Ironwood expected to break ground in March of 2021. Hamilton estimated that the work may be completed within 60 days, depending on the weather.  He said the project will include a preconfigured bridge over Jackson Creek, as well as box culverts within Koskela Road and Pikka Road. General grading along the route also will occur.