What’s happening: A popular St. Johns playground is set to receive an overhaul as a partnership of community stakeholders have come together to replace the aging Fantasy Forest at City Park. What comes next is Fantasy Forest 2.0, a similar-in-spirit but thoroughly modern playground that promises even more fun for even more children.
What’s planned: The original Fantasy Forest playground will come down to make way for an updated version of the playscape. It will include universally-accessible play structures and side-by-side co-play features, making the playground more accessible for children of all abilities. Other updates include infrastructure, lightning, and security enhancements; respite spaces; and more.
Who’s behind it: The St. Johns Area Community Fund is leading the Fantasy Forest 2.0 project in partnership with the City of St. Johns, St. Johns Rotary, and the Kiwanis 707 Club.
How they’re doing it: The Fantasy Forest 2.0 project has been accepted into the state’s placemaking initiative Public Spaces Community Places, a joint effort from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Michigan Municipal League, and Patronicity. As part of the initiative, organizers have launched a $75,000 crowdfunding campaign on the Michigan-based Patronicity platform. Should they successfully reach their goal by Thursday, Oct. 3, the MEDC will contribute a $75,000 matching grant to the project.
Learn more about the Fantasy Forest 2.0 project
on Patronicity.
Why it’s important: “This project is a great example of communities across our state investing in aging infrastructure,” says Dan Gilmartin, Executive Director and CEO of the Michigan Municipal League. “These improvements will ensure that the Fantasy Forest continues to be a beloved place in the St. Johns community. They are being intentional in their goal to provide recreation for all by increasing safety protocols, improving accessibility, and providing space for loved ones and caregivers.”
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