Media Release: Oshtemo Township Signs USDA Bonds to Fund Sanitary
Published on May 20, 2026
For Immediate Release: May 20, 2026
Oshtemo Township Signs USDA Bonds to Fund Sanitary Sewer Expansion
OSHTEMO CHARTER TOWNSHIP, Mich – Oshtemo Township signed $19.482 million in USDA bonds on May 14 to finance Phase 2 of its sanitary sewer expansion project, which will provide approximately 270 households with sewer service and help protect public health and regional waterways. The project will extend more than four miles of sewer main and install three lift stations in the Westport neighborhood. USDA financing provides long-term, low-interest funding that reduces immediate rate pressure on residents while enabling necessary infrastructure improvements.
Construction by Redline Excavating began at the Ramblewood Drive and H Avenue intersection on May 15 and will continue throughout the 2026 and 2027 construction seasons. The township will oversee the work in partnership with engineering firm Fleis & VandenBrink, with a strong focus on resident communication, including regular progress reports via text and weekly updates posted on the township website to minimize impacts on residents.
Prior to construction, the Public Works Department held multiple presentations for the Township Board and community members, mailed postcards to directly affected households, and hosted informational meetings to review the construction process and timeline, anticipated impacts, and safety measures.
“This investment is about ensuring the next generation is set up for success by creating a reliable, modern sanitary sewer system that will serve our community for decades,” said Cheri Bell, Township Supervisor.
“We’re thrilled we no longer have to worry about our septic system failing, and we’re excited to have brand-new roads where our kids can bike and ride their scooters,” said Lee, an Oshtemo Township resident who lives in the Westport neighborhood.
Residents can sign up for construction text alerts and find project maps and weekly updates at oshtemo.org.
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About Oshtemo Charter Township:
Established in 1839, Oshtemo exists to advance the quality of life of all residents through a commitment to responsible growth and value-driven municipal services that promote the relationships among economic vitality, environmental stewardship, and social equity.
Editor’s Note: Three images are attached for your use, including:
- Elected officials signing image.
- Project manual and plans image.
- Oshtemo Logo Color.
For more information, please contact:
Rich Blair, Media & Communications Manager, Oshtemo Township
rblair@oshtemo.org | 269.440.0762
Elected officials signing
Project manual and plans
Oshtemo Logo Color