Rowan Park in Downtown Muskegon Heights Receives Final Grants to Complete Redevelopment Plans
Redevelopment of the Park Includes Installation of a Splash Pad and Public Restrooms
Muskegon Heights, MI – Greater Muskegon Economic Development (GMED), in cooperation with the Community Foundation for Muskegon County (CFFMC), is thrilled to announce that the City of Muskegon Heights has received funding from a DNR SPARK grant to redevelop Rowan Park, an urban greenspace situated in the heart of downtown Muskegon Heights. This transformative project encompasses the installation of an interactive splash pad, the addition of essential public restroom facilities, meticulously designed landscaping, and ADA-compliant enhancements to ensure accessibility for all. The redevelopment of Rowan Park promises to create a secure, engaging, and visually captivating environment, offering residents an inviting space to savor leisurely moments and foster community connections.
“We believe that the revitalization of Rowan Park is more than just a renovation; it’s a recommitment to the well-being and prosperity of every resident in Muskegon Heights,” stated Muskegon Heights Mayor Bonnie McGlothin. “This project symbolizes hope, unity, and a continued momentum for our community.”
The successful realization of the Rowan Park redevelopment project stands as a testament to the strength in community collaboration and grassroots engagement. Local residents played an integral role in shaping the project through the Reaching NEW Muskegon Heights vision plan. This ambitious endeavor was made achievable through the combined efforts of organizations such as the Council of Michigan Foundations (CMF), CFFMC, Consumers Energy Foundation, City of Muskegon Heights, and GMED. The unwavering dedication and partnership of these organizations has paved the way for the transformation of Rowan Park into a cherished community asset that reflects the shared values and aspirations of Muskegon Heights residents.
The full funding for this project is the result of a concerted effort from various sources, culminating in a total investment of $1,270,000. The main funding instrument is the Council of Michigan Foundations (CMF) through the DNR Spark Grant, which has allocated an impressive $948,800 towards the project. This substantial contribution underscores CMF/DNR’s unwavering commitment to community development and enrichment across Michigan.
Additionally, the Consumers Energy Foundation has demonstrated its dedication to local communities and sustainable development by generously providing $250,000. This funding is instrumental in facilitating the necessary infrastructure updates for the park’s rejuvenation. Furthermore, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County has emerged as a pivotal local ally, contributing $20,000 to the project. The steadfast support of each organization reinforces the ongoing commitment to enhancing the lives of Muskegon Heights residents and Rowan Park is now poised to undergo a transformative makeover that will benefit the entire community for years to come.
“The Community Foundation for Muskegon County is pleased to allocate $20,000 towards the Rowan Park project, showcasing our enduring dedication to the community,” stated Todd Jacobs, CEO of the CFFMC. “While our financial support represents a portion of the comprehensive $1.27 million in this impactful endeavor, we readily provided funding to bring this project to the finish line for Muskegon Heights.”
The revitalization of Rowan Park stands as a pivotal milestone in the ongoing redevelopment efforts within the Muskegon Heights community. Aligned with the comprehensive Reaching NEW Muskegon Heights vision plan, this project serves as a cornerstone for the rejuvenation of the downtown area. This transformative project will assist with community building, visitor engagement, and developing a flourishing environment for downtown businesses to thrive.
“The staff at GMED is honored to stand as advocates for the Muskegon Heights community, collaborating closely with residents, stakeholders, legislative officials, and our community partners to secure vital funding opportunities,” said Marla Schneider, President of GMED. “The initiation of this project marks a monumental stride towards the economic advancement of the Muskegon Heights community, and our dedication to its prosperity remains unwavering. Through the utilization of our expertise and resources, we aspire to champion transformative initiatives that will leave a lasting legacy of prosperity for generations to come.”
The project is expected to be completed by Fall of 2025.
About Greater Muskegon Economic Development
Greater Muskegon Economic Development (GMED) was founded in 1999 and is the countywide economic development agency dedicated to supporting local business. GMED’s focus is to leverage public and private investment to accelerate business growth and the creation of high-quality employment opportunities in Muskegon County. Appreciating the importance of our local business community, GMED serves as a clearinghouse of information on programs and incentives available to your business. Learn more at www.developmuskegon.org.
Community Foundation for Muskegon County
The Community Foundation, established in 1961, collaborates with donors, grantees, advisors and individuals to identify issues that are important to Muskegon County communities. By bringing people together around a shared goals and creating links between resources, we aim to “build a vibrant community for all.” Strategic efforts focus in the areas of lifelong literacy, local business development and growth, lifting up local residents to achieve their potential while building a community of trust where all voices are valued.