Mayor Listenberger highlights growth and innovation in his State of the City Address

During Monday night's Common Council meeting, Plymouth Mayor Robert Listenberger gave the State of the City Address. He said, “I am filled with gratitude for our resilient community, our hardworking local businesses, and the dedicated individuals who make Plymouth such a special place to call home.  Together, we’ve navigated challenges and celebrated victories.  After one phenomenal year, we have built on a strong foundation that was laid before us by planning, research, and execution.  Together, we have continued that important work for an even brighter future.” 

The mayor said 2024 was a year of growth and innovation with several new businesses opening, bringing jobs and opportunities to Plymouth residents.  He discussed the stormwater control project at the corner of Center and Plum Streets.  A positive impact on the neighborhood and a project to keep stormwater from damaging the Marshall County Neighborhood Center again.

Utility projects last year included a major renovation of the West Water Tower and a water main improvement project on East Jefferson Street and West Lake Avenue that improves water quality and fire protection capabilities.  The city continues working with the Marshall County Regional Sewer District, which will allow lake residents to have their sewage pumped into town for treatment, thus helping to improve the water quality of the lakes and their wells.       

A street improvement project that started 17 years ago was completed last year. Hoham Drive was upgraded to provide semi-trucks easier access to the city’s industrial park. Gibson and LaPorte Streets around Lincoln Junior High School were improved with new curbs and sidewalks. Mayor Listenberger said that with the Community Crossing Matching Grant Funds award, the city will double the amount it spends annually on street projects this year.

In the State of the City Address, the mayor informed citizens that the city plans to improve sidewalks significantly. Typically, the city allocates $40,000 annually for sidewalks; however, the council has committed $350,000 from the American Rescue Plan Funds to be invested in 2025, making the city more walkable.

Last year, the city hired a full-time Planning Director and City Engineer, and this year it added an Engineering Assistant. With these professionals, the city will save money instead of hiring costly firms to do the work.

Six new pickleball courts were added to the city parks last year, a significant improvement that provides even more opportunities for people to enjoy the outdoors and stay active. The Park Department has been working on expanding the Greenway Trail, and this year, those plans will move to the construction phase with trail additions in River Park Square and from Plymouth Goshen Trail into and around Price’s Memorial Pond on the city’s north side. 

Mayor Listenberger said, “I’m very thankful for the awesome effort from all our teams, from every department, to enthusiastically embrace the idea of planning for Plymouth’s future. As we enter 2025, our vision for Plymouth is to foster growth, promote inclusivity, and create a city where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.” 

In closing, the mayor thanked all the city employees for their dedication to serving the city’s needs, the many volunteers stepping up to help lead Plymouth into the future, the council members for bringing positive collaboration to government, and the citizens of Plymouth for their support.