The Hastings City Council heard Monday that the next phase of the Riverwalk Trail will extend from Industrial Park Drive, along the abandoned railroad bed behind San Marco’s restaurant to Wal-Mart.

Department of Public Service Director Lee Hays said he will apply for grants from the Department of Natural Resources and Michigan Department of Transportation to fund the 14-foot wide extension. With the trail continuing into Rutland Township, 44 percent of the cost will be come from the township. The grants would go to the total project costs for both the city and Rutland Townships.

The council approved the concept of the proposed design for a decorative entrance to Riverside Cemetery on State Road. The  16-foot high, 12-foot wide opening would be at the main entrance to the cemetery on the north side of the road. The height will allow all city equipment entry; larger vehicles will use other entrances into the area.

The design of the opening will tie in with the decorative fence at the facility and is estimated to cost $46,000.  It is in the second phase of cemetery improvements and recommended by the Riverside Cemetery Preservation Advisory Board. //

Also, action on Tyler Guernsey’s plan to purchase a parcel in the city-owned Industrial Park on Star School Road will be delayed until some legal matters can be clarified by City Manager Jeff Mansfield. Guernsey plans to build up to 42 storage units similar to those on Green Street, which are allowed in B-2 zoning districts, but language dealing with restrictive covenants on the property have to be explained, and perhaps, changed. Mansfield plans to have a report at the council meeting on March 27.