Van Buren County Road Commission Engineering Technician David Clift was recently honored by the County Road Association (CRA) of Michigan with the “Program Manager of the Year” Award at the 2025 County Engineers’ Workshop in Bellaire.
In 2024, David led a $1.8 million project on CR388 from CR653S to the Kalamazoo County line. The project included crushing and widening the existing pavement, enhancing drainage, removing trees, and re-paving the roadway. The improvements, completed by the awarded contractor Brad Thomas Excavating of South Haven, MI, were secured through a competitive sealed bid process.
What made this project unique was its funding collaboration—Pine Grove Township’s ARPA funds, Van Buren County ARPA funds, and Road Commission transportation funds were combined to accomplish the project. ARPA is the American Rescue Plan Act, a federal stimulus package that provided financial aid to individuals, businesses, and governments to address the economic and public health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Residents and travelers alike now enjoy a safer, more efficient roadway, reflecting the project’s commitment to sustainability and long-term functionality.
“David Clift’s recognition as the County Road Association of Michigan’s Program Manager of the Year reflects his remarkable dedication, and exceptional leadership”, said Bret Witkowski, Managing Director of the Van Buren County Road Commission. “His work has significantly advanced our projects and inspired our team to achieve excellence. We are incredibly proud to have David as a key member of the Van Buren County Road Commission, and this award is a well-deserved acknowledgment of his hard work and commitment to our community.”
The CRA of Michigan represents the interests of Michigan’s 83 county road agencies that collectively maintain 75% of Michigan’s road miles – more than 90,000 miles of roads and 5,900 bridges.
