Mayor Tom Semaan – New Baltimore, MI
Mayor Tom Semaan – New Baltimore, MI

Infrastructure & Development

Under Mayor Tom Semaan’s leadership, New Baltimore is investing in its future through strategic infrastructure improvements and thoughtful development. Recognizing the city’s growth and its unique position along Anchor Bay, Mayor Semaan is committed to modernizing roads, enhancing public spaces, and supporting sustainable development that benefits all residents. Below are the key priorities and ongoing efforts in this area.

Priorities & Initiatives

Road & Sidewalk Improvements

Safe, accessible streets are a foundation of a thriving community. Mayor Semaan has prioritized:

  • Annual Road Maintenance: Resurface key thoroughfares and road maintainence, reducing wear and improving safety.
  • Sidewalk Accessibility: Expanding and repairing sidewalks to meet ADA standards, ensuring all residents can navigate the city comfortably. They have seen a $1+ Million improvement budget through 2024.
  • Traffic Flow Enhancements: Collaborating with engineers to optimize traffic patterns, especially near downtown and new development zones.

Progress Update: State house is preparing increased Act51 Revenue Sharing locally from $1.2 to $1.3 Million annually in 2025.

Downtown Revitalization

Mayor Semaan views downtown New Baltimore as the heart of the community and a driver of economic growth. Key projects include:

  • Ashley Development: Transforming the former recreation dept. site into a mixed-use space with retail, dining, and residential units, enhancing the waterfront’s appeal breaking ground soon.
  • Baker Building Restoration: Preserving historic charm while modernizing the structure for new commercial tenants, expected to open in late 2025.
  • Public Space Upgrades: Adding benches, lighting, and greenery to create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors and locals alike.

Progress Update: The Ashley Development will break ground in 2025, with Phase 1 completion projected for Spring 2026.

Streamlined Development Processes

To encourage responsible growth, Mayor Semaan has worked to:

  • Expedite Permitting: Reduced approval times for residential and commercial projects by 30% through updated city processes.
  • Support Grant Applications: Partnered with developers to secure funding, such as ARPA allocations, for infrastructure tied to new housing and business sites.
  • Plan for the Future: Advanced the city’s 10-year Capital Improvement Plan, identifying critical projects through 2035.

Progress Update: Over 15 new residential permits were fast-tracked in 2024, supporting a growing population.

Mayor Semaan’s Vision

“Our infrastructure is the backbone of New Baltimore’s prosperity. By investing in roads, revitalizing downtown, and planning smart development, we’re building a city that’s ready for the future while staying true to our roots.”

Looking Ahead

Mayor Semaan’s administration is focused on:

  • Completing the downtown streetscape project by 2027, enhancing walkability and aesthetics.
  • Expanding water and sewer capacity to support new neighborhoods and businesses.
  • Partnering with regional agencies to explore sustainable construction practices, like permeable pavements to reduce flooding.

Get Involved

Have ideas for improving New Baltimore’s infrastructure? Mayor Semaan welcomes your input! Attend a City Council meeting or contact the Mayor’s Office at (586) 725-2151 or via email at tsemaan@cityofnewbaltimore.org.