Courtesy of Tim Gasperich A project to repair and repaint one of the half-million-gallon water tanks near Swedetown was recently completed. Its bold blue and gray reflects the colors of the C-L-K Schools.

CALUMET TOWNSHIP — Township Supervisor Tim Gasperich has announced that the project of repainting and refurbishing one of the township’s two 500,000-gallon water tanks.

The water towers supply drinking water to customers of the Upper Michigan Water Company in Calumet, Laurium, Copper City, Osceola Township, the Houghton County Airport, and beyond, a press release this week from the township office states.

The color scheme selected for the project closely mirrors the colors of the C-L-K Schools, underscoring the township’s connection to the local community, the release said.

Improvements to the water tank included more than a paint job. In compliance with OSHA requirements, the tower was equipped with a handrail to the top of the tank, refurbishment of the climbing ladder, installation of a roof platform, a new sidewall manway, and a new, frost-free roof vent. In addition to the exterior of the tower, the inside of the water tank was also repainted. The tower is located at the edge of the Swedetown Recreation Area.

To fund the project, Calumet Township secured a Rural Development loan of $400,000. Another $100,000 was allocated from the township’s water fund. Gasperich said the project was completed under budget.

The total cost was initially projected at around $500,000, he said. There was also a contingency that was not needed, and the cost of painting and the repairs came in slightly under the projection, he added.

Gasperich extended his gratitude to the Upper Michigan Water Company.

“Upper Michigan Water Company played a crucial role throughout the project,” he said. “While we (the township) owns the tank, they operate it for us and were always ready to assist whenever needed. This effort shows the strength of partnerships in our communities.”