I love working on transformative projects like Innovate Mound that engage so many different people in the community – small businesses, schools, residents, major employers, and others. Many are directly or indirectly affected by large projects like this and it’s important that Innovate Mound is successful for the entire community.
I joined HNTB nearly three years ago and have worked on projects that are similar to Innovate Mound, including the I-94 and I-375 reconstruction projects in Detroit. Prior to joining HNTB, I served as the director of the City of Detroit‘s Building Department and the vice president of corporate affairs for a major gas and oil provider.
There are many things I have learned about projects like Innovate Mound. First, any project of this size benefits from the stakeholders sharing ideas and information. In my past experience, some really important information has been shared that positively influenced the project.
Second, the stakeholders are anyone who travels down Mound Road to get home, to go to work, to shop, to conduct business, etc. If they use the road, their input helps us get the project right the first time.
Lastly, a successful project is a win for the community. Infrastructure is a top priority for communities in Michigan right now and the Innovate Mound project will reconstruct one of Macomb County‘s most popular roadways and improve travel for residents, visitors, businesses, and emergency response personnel.
We have reached out to many stakeholders over the last six months and we want to hear from many more, especially during the pre-construction phase of the project. On February 25, we will be hosting our first public event called Innovate Mound 101. I want to personally invite everyone to join us to learn more about this transformative project and give us your thoughts.