The Port Huron Historic District Commission has approved Frank Hoffman’s updated plans for the Riviera and Bijou Theater at 401 Grand River Ave. This decision follows previous rejections of Hoffman’s earlier proposals. The new plan aims to restore the building’s original masonry facade, replacing parts removed in the 1950s with similar materials. Recent work revealed three circular windows, and the facade restoration will also include stained glass and insulated windows. The project, expected to be finished by November, will also feature a charcoal gray overhead door and black-painted rooftop.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron is offering up to $10,000 in down payment assistance through its Urban Pioneer + program. This aid is available to first-time home buyers with low-to-moderate incomes purchasing homes within city limits. The funds can be used for down payments, closing costs, or pre-paid items. For more details contact the City’s Community Development Office.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Construction on the Range Road and Yankee Road roundabout will close Yankee Road east of Range Road until late September. Drivers should use Davis Road to M-29 as a detour. Southbound traffic on Range Road from north of Yankee to Brown Street will be open, while northbound traffic will detour via Brown Street, M-29, and Davis Road. Local access will be maintained, but expect delays.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Over Labor Day weekend, Michigan State Police in Caro were busy with various incidents, from speeding to gun seizures. A driver in Sanilac County was caught speeding over 100 mph, while troopers handled 39 complaints, eight crashes, and made 190 traffic stops. One trooper led 47 stops, including two in Millington Township where loaded guns were seized. One man was found with an unlicensed handgun, and another was arrested with three firearms. MSP Caro troopers are continuing extra patrols focusing on drunk driving and seatbelt enforcement in the coming weeks.

Reporting for WGRT, JP bZet.

Lambton County Council declined a request from Sarnia to help cover $90,000 in costs for managing an encampment at Rainbow Park. Sarnia spent the money on security, lighting, and sanitation measures, but the county, managing a $9.3 million homelessness budget, says those funds are already allocated. Mayor Mike Bradley questioned why unused funds from a low-capacity shelter can’t be redirected, but county staff noted fixed costs remain. The county supported further discussions but did not commit to sharing costs, while Sarnia looks for legal options to clear the encampment.

Reporting for WGRT, JP bZet.

Attorneys for a former St. Clair County jail inmate, Lisa Brown, have agreed to delay the discovery deadline in her federal lawsuit by four months, pushing it to July. Brown is suing St. Clair County, the jail, and a health provider after a 2021 fall in the jail left her partially paralyzed. She claims the jail’s delayed medical care worsened her condition. Both sides are preparing witness lists, including medical experts, as they continue reviewing her injuries. The delay allows more time for gathering evidence and depositions.

Reporting for WGRT, JP bZet.