Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Manitowoc public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues in roads with high priority
Kellner Street reconstruction delayed to 2030
The Kellner Street project has slid from 2027 to 2028 and now 2030 in the new road plan. The mayor says only a two-block stretch is in bad shape and whole-street projects elsewhere are a bigger priority, but Ald. Reckelberg's district is frustrated and wants it finished.
Road projects and infrastructure borrowing
Major 2027 road work includes Franklin Street (South 6th to South 10th), North 10th Street with sewer repairs, Marshall Street, Orchard Lane, and North 18th Street, plus a new DPW salt shed and armory roof — driving the higher borrowing.
2026 Concrete Paving Program
Vinton Construction's change order adds $51,710 to the 2026 concrete paving program, needed to coordinate with MPU's water main replacement work. The board noted it slightly exceeds the $50,000 committee authorization, a wrinkle to be resolved.
Sewer and Street Infrastructure Projects
Sewer re-lining, sanitary and storm sewer construction, and the city's asphalt paving program all got final change orders — with re-lining and paving coming in under budget. Final contractor payments were also approved.
Washington & Calumet Reconstruction
The council approved the real estate services agreement to get the long-awaited Calumet Avenue rebuild moving — a major corridor project residents have waited on.
Franklin Street Reconstruction
A $16,952 pay estimate was approved for RA Smith's ongoing Franklin Street reconstruction work.
Michigan Avenue reconstruction and tree preservation
Neighbors on Michigan Ave (N. 13th to N. 18th) don't want the mature tree canopy cut down during reconstruction and want a seat at the planning table. The mayor says the project won't be in the 2027 budget and no design exists yet, but old utilities will eventually force some tree impacts.
Stop signs at South 22nd Street and Summit Street
Three crashes in recent years — including a rollover — plus speeding and kids in the neighborhood prompted this request. The city engineer backed stop signs for northbound and southbound traffic on 22nd due to a sight obstruction on the southwest corner.