July 16, 2026

Demolition begins on Southwestern Junior High

Source: WWMT

Demolition has officially begun on the former Southwestern Junior High in Battle Creek. The Battle Creek Public Schools building served students from 1926 until 2006. The community had one final tour in November of 2025. Crews say a community playground will be built on the site.

Community organizations find a new home at Albion College’s Ludington Center

Source: Albion Recorder

Many community members will get their first look at the renovated first-floor offices at Albion College’s Ludington Center during the Greater Albion Area Career Fair on July 16. The Greater Albion Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau has moved into the building, and the Albion Community Foundation is expected to complete its move soon.

Calhoun County Identifies 87 Cases of Cyclosporiasis Amid Statewide Outbreak

Source: Calhoun County Public Health Department

The Calhoun County Public Health Department has identified 87 local cases of cyclosporiasis as of July 17, part of a broader statewide outbreak investigation. The foodborne illness causes diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms and is often linked to contaminated fresh produce. Officials recommend thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables and contacting a health care provider if symptoms persist.

Battle Creek Oversight Board begins deliberations into teen detainments

Source: WOODTV

Battle Creek’s Community Oversight Board has begun deliberating over the police department’s handling of a June 14 encounter in which officers detained a teenager who had also been stopped by police 10 days earlier. The review follows widespread public concern and an internal investigation that found the officer’s actions were consistent with department policy. The board expects to complete its work within 10 days and submit its findings to the city manager.

Hamblin Avenue closed July 13-31 for Washington Avenue bridge work in Battle Creek

Source: MDOT

Hamblin Avenue is closed between Kendall and McCamly streets through July 31 while crews set beams for the M-89/Washington Avenue bridge over the Battle Creek River. A detour is posted along Kendall Street, Michigan Avenue and Hamblin Avenue as work continues on a $7.6 million project that includes bridge rebuilding and repairs, drainage and signal improvements and water main relocation.