Midlanders called on to help support their downtown’s revitalization

Downtown Midland will soon look a lot different if a new crowdfunding campaign is successful.

Provided by Midland Community Foundation.The Michigan Economic Development Corporation and Midland Area Community Foundation are hoping to raise $50,000 by December 1st through a crowdfunding campaign offered through the Michigan-based crowdfunding platform Patronicity.

If the goal is reached, matching funds will be made available through the MEDC’s Public Spaces Community Places program.

“When you look at what makes a vibrant community, downtowns come up again and again,” Sharon Mortensen, MACF President & CEO says in a statement. “These amenities can create a sense of community, a sense of place. Community members and visitors can come sit around a fireplace or enjoy a game of chess while visiting downtown Midland. It’s a simple way to create quality spaces where people want to gather and spend time.”

Funding raised during this campaign will add stone fire pits, flexible seating, chess/checker tables, public art and other amenities to the walkable streetscape. The changes are designed to encourage commerce and quality time spent in the area, with widened sidewalks, festival-friendly streets, and large gathering spaces.
 

As of June 15, 2017, MEDC has provided $3,766,500 in matching grants top programs 125 projects across Michigan which have been successful in reaching their crowdfunding goal, with $4.5 million raised from 19,988 individual donors.

“When you donate to a project like this, it gives you more appreciation and respect for the space,” says Ben Tierney, Communications Officer with the
Midland Area Community Foundation. “These are exciting additions to our downtown that community members and visitors alike are going to enjoy for many years. Plus, how often can you make a donation knowing it will be matched three times over?”
 

For project details and to donate, please visit: http://www.patronicity.com/midland.

Rendering of fire pit area. Courtesy Midland Community Foundation.