Individuals and organizations alike are being presented the opportunity to transform an underused park in downtown Bay City.
The state’s placemaking initiative Public Spaces Community Places has selected Realtor Park as one of its latest targets for revitalization. Located near Veterans Memorial Park and the banks of the Saginaw River, Realtor Park is situated between Jenny and Thomas streets.
As part of the initiative, a crowdfunding campaign has been launched in support of the transformation efforts. Should organizers raise $30,000 by Jan. 15, 2019, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation will contribute an additional $30,000 toward the project.
"This park will serve as a gateway to Bay City and provide a space for people to gather and spend time when visiting downtown," says MEDC Senior Vice President of Community Development Katharine Czarnecki.
Planned improvements include a park clean-up, new trees and grass, and the addition of a walkway, benches, and lighting. Local artist Jason Graham has been tapped for a 16 ft. by 6 ft. sculptural piece of art that represents the city.
Dubbed the Before the Bay Park Project, it’s the community service project for the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce Leadership Class of 2019.
"The renewed space, along with a custom art piece, will more closely align with our appreciation for our city, the river that we identify with, but most importantly, the collaboration of several people and organizations, a true example of the community spirit that exists here in Bay County," says Tammy Claramunt, leadership class participant and grant chairperson.
"This project would not be possible without the help of the Public Spaces Community Places grant program."
The crowdfunding campaign for the Before the Bay Park Project is being held on Michigan-based platform Patronicity. View its progress online.
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