The Copper Country Curling Club in Calumet is going after a grant to redevelop a historic site into a year-round community and curling center.
They're aiming for a Michigan Economic Development grant of $32,000, but to do so, they need to raise a matching $32,000 and are using Michigan-based crowdfunding platform Patronicity to do so--that means they're seeking donations to meet their goal,
here. So far, they've raised more than $8,000, and the campaign runs until mid-July.
It's part of the MEDC's Public Spaces Community Places initiative, which funds programs and groups that have enough proven community funding support through this crowdfunding platform.
The curling club will use the money, if received, to redevelop the Drill Shop in Calumet Township. It was built in 1885 to manufacture drilling equipment for the nearby copper mines, and closed in 1968. It's owned by Calumet Township currently, and some work has already been done by the township and curling club, as in 2005, two curling rinks were installed in part of the building for use during winter months.
The grant would allow completion of the building's transformation into usable space, including handicap accessibility upgrades, a hockey shooting and goal tending area, a batting and pitching area, and two regulation horseshoe courts along with the existing curling rinks.
"We are very excited about this project which will create a year round indoor space for several popular activities while restoring a historic building," says Paul Lehto, Calumet Township Supervisor.
Writer: Kim Eggleston
Source: Michigan Economic Development Corporation
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