Local News

Port Huron’s former Central Fire Station, built in 1960, will be demolished after the City Council approved a $258,300 contract with Oak-Wood Building Company. The building, vacant since August, was too damaged to renovate due to foundation issues and lack of proper facilities for female firefighters. City officials stressed it was falling apart and needed to be torn down. Demolition is set to finish by May of next year, and the city is already exploring future uses for the property along the Black River.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron’s holiday spirit was alive as Officer Tinsel, the town’s beloved elf, made his rounds to meet Nitro, a new elf from Tri-Hospital EMS. Despite Nitro’s confidence, Tinsel reminded everyone who’s been spreading holiday cheer for years. But the fun didn’t stop there! The Port Huron Fire Department sent in their own elf, Firefighter Peppermint, who had to wait for Tinsel’s approval before joining the festivities. The friendly rivalry continues, but Tinsel is not ready to pass on his elf title just yet!

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron Township residents are now receiving new 96-gallon green trash and recycling bins, as Waste Management prepares to automate collection starting January 1st. These bins, known as “toters,” must be used for all trash, with additional bins available for $8 a month. Port Huron Township is among the first local areas to adopt this more efficient system. Port Huron Township is among the first local areas to adopt this more efficient system, which helps reduce strain on workers and streamline waste collection. Residents can contact Waste Management for more info.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Sarnia Council has approved $150,000 for a new playground at Queen Street Park, just a short walk from Rainbow Park. The funds, drawn from the Parklands Dedication Reserve, will improve the park at Queen and Devine Streets, offering a safer, more accessible play area. Councillor Chrissy McRoberts, who proposed the motion, said Rainbow Park’s playground has been neglected and is difficult to access due to Christina Street. The project includes a variety of playground equipment and upgrades to the park space.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Grocery shoppers in Port Huron area need to plan ahead for Christmas Eve, as many stores will have early closures. Meijer closes at 7 p.m., while Walmart operates from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nieman’s on Carney Drive closes at 6 p.m., and Wally’s Supermarket on Gratiot Avenue in Marysville wraps up at 5 p.m. Country Style Marketplace in downtown Port Huron will shut its doors at 4 p.m., and VG’s in Marine City is open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Kroger closes at 5 p.m., but Dollar General stays open until 10 p.m.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron City Council has approved a plan to reduce lanes on Huron Avenue, Military Street, and Pine Grove Avenue. The recommendation came from a downtown task force and includes adding separated bike lanes and on-street parallel parking. Jim Soto, a member of the Huron Avenue work group, called it a significant change since the 1960s. The Michigan Department of Transportation will review the plan, with a pilot phase potentially starting next year and permanent changes expected in 2026.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet