Like Us on Facebook
|
| Contact Us |
 |
|
151 Martin, P.O. Box 3001
Birmingham, MI 48012
Ph. 248.530.1800
Fax 248.530.1080
|
|
Welcome to the May 2018 edition of the Around Town e-Newsletter from the City of Birmingham. We hope you enjoy this e-newsletter and forward it along to others who may be interested in the City of Birmingham!
|
Inside City Hall with Birmingham City Manager, Joe Valentine
|
|
| Inside City Hall, May Edition |
|
Old Woodward Reconstruction Project Update
Progress is the operative word as the reconstruction of Old Woodward between Oakland and Brown continues.
With the road fully removed in the early days of the project, contractors anticipate they'll complete installation of all new sewers and fiber optic conduit soon. Meanwhile, crews overcame one of their biggest challenges to date in the project when they ran sewer and water lines across the intersection of Maple and Old Woodward. The treacherous work necessitated the temporary closure of eastbound Maple at Old Woodward so workers could do the work safely. With the bulk of that underground work now completed, Eastbound Maple traffic has resumed, helping motorists to drive past the epicenter of the Old Woodward project.
In May, contractors will look to put finishing touches on utility work, one of the most difficult phases of the project. In addition this month, crews plan to begin preparing the stone base, paving the way for the eventual pouring of concrete for the new roadway. Other work targeted for May includes installation of a new electrical system that will power holiday lights in the downtown core as well as mobile device charging stations for the public to use.
With a targeted, substantial completion date of late July, the underground infrastructure improvements and the above ground enhancements on Old Woodward will result in a modernized downtown core that residents, merchants, stakeholders and visitors alike can be proud of and enjoy for decades to come. Until then, the public is encouraged to visit downtown, and support city merchants, particularly now that the weather is improving. Free parking in all City parking structures is now available on weekends (Saturday and Sunday) along with four, two-hour free valet parking stands strategically located near the construction zone.
Stay Informed:
Learn more about the project at
www.bhamgov.org/downtowninfrastructure
.
Receive regular updates about this project by signing up for the "Old Woodward Reconstruction General Information" group at
www.bit.ly/bhamnews
. Residents are also encouraged to sign up for an e-notify system for the project at
www.bhamgov.org/enotify
to get real time updates by email or text.
|
Paving the Way to a More Beautiful Downtown
 Businesses are OPEN during construction, and they're counting on your support! The BSD is helping businesses to ensure it's "business as usual" for everyone by offering the following great perks:
FREE Two-Hour Valet Parking
(then $5 for each additional hour), Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Offered at four
locations:
- North Old Woodward Ave. near Willits
- Henrietta near Maple
- South Old Woodward near Brown
- Hamilton near Ferndale
Birmingham Bonus Bucks (BBB) PHASE TWO -
The Birmingham Bonus Bucks program has been so successful that the program maximum ($20,000) was reached within three weeks. Rather than eliminate the program altogether, the BSD has announced it is allocating additional funds toward Phase Two of the Birmingham Bonus Bucks Program.
Details about Phase Two of the Birmingham Bonus Bucks program are as follows:
- $10 in Birmingham Bonus Bucks will be awarded to shoppers for every $100 spent at BSD shops and boutiques, and for every $200 spent at BSD restaurants starting at 3 p.m. on April 27 and until the promotion maximum has been reached.
- Birmingham Bonus Bucks must be redeemed in person at a participating BSD business by July 25.
- Individuals are eligible to earn a maximum of $50 in Birmingham Bonus Bucks each month during the promotional period. Monies from submitted receipts may not be applied or carried over for future BBBs.
- Visit www.ALLINBirmingham.com/BBB for promotion details and the submission form.
Birmingham Construction Art Contest
- Local artists are painting and decorating barricades throughout the construction area.
- Winning art will be selected by public jury.
- Judging will begin May 12 and the public is encouraged to vote on the Birmingham Shopping District's Facebook page.
- Learn more at www.ALLINBirmingham.com/artcontest
Learn more at
www.bhamgov.org/downtowninfrastructure
.
|
It's Time for the "Ice Universe" Birmingham Ice Show
Attend the "Ice Universe" 2018 Ice Show slated for Friday, May 4 at 7:00 pm, Saturday, May 5 at 7:00 pm and Sunday, May 6 at 2:00 pm at the Birmingham Ice Arena.
Tickets are on sale at the Birmingham Ice Arena, located at 2300 E. Lincoln. They are sold Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm in the main office and at the Concession Stand after main office hours. Cash or Check only. More info:
www.bhamgov.org/icearena or call 248.530.1642.
|
Spring Flowers & Fresh Produce at Birmingham Farmers Market
The Birmingham Farmers Market will return to Public Parking Lot 6 for its 16th season this Sunday, May 6. Warming temperatures, live music, smiling faces and all things healthy will enhance the lively event, which draws thousands each Sunday throughout the season. Attendees are encouraged to stop by the information booth for free balloons for children throughout Opening Day. The market is located at 660 North Old Woodward, across from Salvatore Scallopini Restaurant and just north of Booth Park. It will be open from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. every Sunday from May 6 through October 28. Learn more at www.BirminghamFarmersMarket.org.
We look forward to seeing you there!
|
Climb, Eat & Explore at DPS Open House
The community is invited to Birmingham's Department of Public Services for their annual Open House event. Come and enjoy the fun on Saturday, May 12 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m at 851 South Eton.
All attendees will enjoy a complimentary lunch with hot dogs, refreshments and ice cream. Children will have an opportunit
y to excavate in a sand box, receive free "hard hats" and can climb on and explore municipal vehicles, including fire trucks, plow trucks and vactors!
A special thank you to the DPS employees, Birmingham Fire and Police Departments, Engineering Department and many others who work hard to offer this free and fun event to the community!
|
Experience Nite Golf at Springdale Golf Course
Nite Golf is a unique and fun experience! Once the sun goes down, tiki torches will light the way. Register now for the following Nite Golf opportunity:
WHEN:
Friday, May 18th
TIME: Shotgun Start at Dusk (About 9pm)
FORMAT: 4-Person Scramble
COST: $35 Per Player
* 9 Holes Walking
* 2 Glow Balls PP
* Taco Bar - 7:30 - 8:30pm
* 2 Drink Tickets PP
Lincoln Hills and Springdale Golf Course offer a quick round of golf for those on the go and are rated as two of the top nine-hole courses in Oakland County. Reservations may be made online or by calling Lincoln Hills at (248) 530-1670 or Springdale at (248) 530-1660. Reserve your tee time and learn more at
www.GolfBirmingham.org
.
|
Join Us for the Celebrate Birmingham Hometown Parade
Enjoy the Celebrate Birmingham Hometown Parade on Sunday, May 20 at 1:00 p.m. Set up your chairs along the route which begins at S. Old Woodward and Frank, travels west on Brown, north on Pierce, passes City Hall on Martin, and ends on the west side of Shain Park.
The fun continues in Shain Park with family friendly activities including a performance by Allegro Dance, bounce houses provided by Oakland County Parks & Recreation, face painting, circus performers, balloon artist, train rides, photo booth, games, food, and more. Meet the Fire Chief, climb aboard a fire truck, and have your picture taken on the Wells Fargo stagecoach.
Celebrate Birmingham is made possible by the generous support of many, including AXA Advisors, Bank of Ann Arbor, Belfor Property Restoration, City of Birmingham, and Wells Fargo Advisors. Visit
www.bhamgov.org/parade for more information.
|
Attend the Birmingham Memorial Day Service
The City of Birmingham will host its annual Memorial Day Service on
Monday, May 28, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. in Shain Park, adjacent to City Hall, located at 151 Martin Street. The patriotic program includes addresses of historical interest, popular songs, wreath laying at the monuments and live music provided by the Birmingham Concert Band Entertainers, featuring songstress Patty Ward.
Civil War reenactors will assist in the service. This year's service will commemorate the 100
th anniversary of the end of the First World War and the Friends of the Birmingham Museum will mark the occasion with a special presentation. At 11:30 a.m. they will conduct a tour of historic Greenwood Cemetery with emphasis on local heroes who served our country during The Great War. Family attendance is welcomed and veterans' participation is encouraged.
The origin of Memorial Day dates back to 1868 when the Commander-in-Chief of the Grand Army of the Republic (the fraternal organization of Union Civil War veterans), General John A. Logan, designated May 30 "for the purpose of strewing flowers or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion (the Civil War)." The first service was held that year at Arlington Cemetery, already the site of over 20,000 burials. From that first "Decoration Day" to today, we honor all who served their country with Memorial Day.
|
Birmingham Welcomes New Businesses
Verizon recently opened at 135 South Old Woodward.
Verizon has a lot to offer besides phones! They have a vehicle monitoring system (HUM), Apple Watches, Portable High-Speed Internet, iPads & Tablets, Home Phone Service, Business Phone Solutions (One Talk), and more, all at a competitive price. And, they now offer Unlimited Data. Their new Birmingham
location prides itself on customer service and attention to detail, with fewer wait times and a professional, yet personable, client experience.
Learn more at
www.cellularandmore.com
or call 248-590-2054.
|
Fire Hydrant Flow Testing
The Birmingham Fire Department is conducting the annual flow testing of the City's hydrants throughout May.
The Fire Department flows about a third of the City's hydrants each year. The testing provides the department with the flow pressure and volume of water that is expected from each hydrant. Additionally, it reveals hydrants with mechanical problems. Flow testing is one of the ways the Department helps keep the public safe in the event of a fire by making sure that hydrants are operable and give the proper water flow when needed.
Unfortunately, this may cause the water in the immediate area to appear rust colored. The Department does what it can to give a couple days warning to the areas that we will be flow testing for the upcoming week. Should you experience rust colored water, here are some facts:
- This condition DOES NOT pose a health problem.
- Normal running of COLD water in your home will soon clear up the problem. DO NOT USE HOT WATER. This will prevent rusty water from entering the hot water tank.
- If the rusty water affects your laundry, you may purchase "oxalic acid", or commercial products for taking rust out of clothes, from local grocery, drug or hardware stores. Follow the product instructions for rewashing the clothes and the rust will be removed.
The Fire Department conducts the flow tests Monday through Thursday between the hours of 8:00 AM and 3:00 PM. We do not flow Friday, Saturday or Sunday. The map below indicates what areas are to be flowed by year.
|
Learn Proper Tree, Shrub & Plant Care
As the City of Birmingham is known for its many amenities and beautiful scenery, the Department of Public Services offers helpful hints for proper tree, shrub, and plant care.
- Per city ordinance any privately owned tree, shrub, or plant overhanging the streets or highways in the city shall be trimmed so that its branches shall not obstruct the light from any street lamp and so there shall be a clear space of 14 feet above the surface of such street or highway.
- Any privately owned tree, shrub or plant overhanging a sidewalk of the city shall be trimmed so that there shall be a clear space of eight feet above the surface of such sidewalk.
- No privately owned tree, shrub or plant shall be allowed to encroach upon, under or over any sidewalk in a manner to interfere with the free passage of persons using such sidewalk
- All privately owned dead, diseased or dangerous trees, or broken or decayed limbs that constitute a menace to the safety of the public shall be removed.
Thank you for doing your part in keeping the city looking fresh, clean, and walkable! Follow these tips to ensure ordinances are not violated:
- Stay Proactive; always look for ways to make sure your property is maintained and looking in tip top shape!
- It's almost always best to trim or prune a tree during its dormant season.
- Dead or broken branches and limbs can fall off at any time, which is a serious safety hazard. If the branches of a tree obstruct your vision while driving, they should be trimmed away.
- Tree limbs and branches occasionally grow too close to utility lines. Contact the utility company to handle such issues.
- Thinning the crown of a tree improves airflow, which can be very beneficial. If branches are crossing or rubbing together, they should be trimmed so that they don't fall unexpectedly.
For more information, contact the Department of Public Services at
248-530-1700.
|
 Earth Friendly Car Care
Did you know there are over four million vehicles in Southeast Michigan? With that many cars and trucks, we all need to practice good car care to protect our lakes and streams.
How does caring for your car affect your local watershed? Storm drains found in our streets and roadside ditches eventually drain to the lake. So, if "dirty" water from washing our car, motor oil, and other fluids are dumped or washed into the storm drain, they pollute our local waterways.
What can you do?
- Make a date. Car-wash facilities treat their dirty water before disposing of it. So, make a date to take your car to a car wash.
- Wash it-on the grass. If you wash your car at home, consider washing it on the lawn. The lawn will gladly soak up the soapy, dirty water preventing it from entering storm drains or roadside ditches.If you can't use the lawn, try to direct the dirty water towards the lawn and away from the storm drain.
- Take advantage of business expertise. Consider taking your vehicle to the shop to have the oil and other fluids changed. These businesses have the ability to recycle the used materials and clean up accidental spills.
- Recycle. If you choose to change your oil and other fluids yourself, label the waste containers. Then, take them to your community's household hazardous waste collection day or to a business that accepts used oil. Never dump used oil, antifreeze, or other fluids on the ground or down the storm drain.
For more easy steps on protecting our lakes and streams, visit
www.semcog.org
. Remember, our water is our future
¾
and it's ours to protect!
|
Pet Care & Safety Reminders for Walking Around Town
 The City of Birmingham has several pet regulations designed to keep pets and people safe. Here are some useful reminders:
- All dogs must be on a chain or leash and under reasonable control of some person at all times. A dog cannot go beyond the premises of its owner unless restrained by a chain or leash and under reasonable control.
- All dogs and cats four months old or over must have a license. All dogs and cats shall be immunized against rabies, prior to issuance of a license. Licenses are issued by the City Clerk's Office at City Hall.
- Owners cannot allow animals to deposit fecal matter in any place other than the premises where the animal is harbored or kept, unless it is immediately collected and removed.
- If a person is walking an animal on property they do not own, whether public or private, they must have an appropriate device for the collection of fecal matter in their immediate possession and an appropriate depository for the transmission of fecal matter to the premises where the animal is harbored or kept.
- No person shall harbor or keep any dog which, by loud or frequent or habitual barking, yelping or howling, causes a serious annoyance to the neighborhood, or to people passing on the street.
Also, please remember dog waste should be collected with a bag and disposed of in your garbage container, not your yard waste bin. If you have questions regarding the Animal Ordinance you may call the Police Department at 248.530.1889 or the City Clerk's office at 248.530.1880.
|
Help Your Community during Rouge River Clean-Up Day
Make a difference in your community by volunteering for the annual
Rouge
River Clean-Up Day on
Saturday, May 19 from 9 a.m. - noon. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. at Linden Park and lunch will be served at noon. Volunteers will be removing invasive species and trash along the
Rouge
River. Volunteers should wear boots/sturdy shoes, long pants, long-sleeve shirt, hat and sunscreen. Mosquito repellent, gloves and bags will be provided. To volunteer, please call Connie Folk at
248-530-1642
.
|
You're Invited to an Exhibit Reception at the Museum
Join us at the museum after the DPS Open House on Saturday, May 12 from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. for an exhibit reception celebrating our 2018 exhibit "The People of Birmingham: Celebrating 200 Years of Stories." This exhibit is unique because each and every story in the exhibit was crowd-sourced from individuals in the community! Light refreshments will be served. All are welcome.
The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and is located at 556 W. Maple Rd. Parking is available in the Chester St. structure on the south side of Maple. Admission is $7.00 for adults, $5.00 for students and seniors, children five and under are free. Please visit us on the web at: www.bhamgov.org/museum or www.facebook.com/TheBirminghamMuseum.
|
|
May News from the Baldwin Library
Friends of the Library Semi-Annual Book Sale
Friday, May 4 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Members Preview Night
Saturday, May 5 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 6 from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Half Price Day
Monday, May 7 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Bag Day - Buy a bag for $5.00 and stuff it to the brim with books
Michigan Notable Author Michael Smith
Tuesday, May 1 at 7:00 p.m.
2018 Michigan Notable Author Michael Smith will speak about his acclaimed book, "Designing Detroit: Wirt Rowland and the Rise of Modern American Architecture."
Music Man Dave Family Concert
Saturday, May 5 at 10:30 a.m.
Spend the morning with Music Man Dave as he performs clever, dance-able and seriously cool children's music.
The Baldwin Public Library is located at 300 W. Merrill Street in Birmingham. For more information visit www.baldwinlib.org
or call (248) 647-1700.
|
|
|
Thank you for reading Around Town, a monthly e-newsletter from the City of Birmingham. We hope you find the information timely and useful. Please feel free to forward this e-mail to friends and neighbors who may be interested in Birmingham.
Sincerely,
|
|
|
