BIG RAPIDS — The city of Big Rapids was awarded a $150,000 Recreation Passport grant from the state to support the construction of the Skate Park at Swede Hill project.
Democrat Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced the disbursement of $1,977,300 in Recreation Passport grants to 15 communities in Michigan in a news release recently.
“When we invest in our state parks and public lands, we all benefit,” Whitmer said in the release. “The Recreation Passport helps us improve parks, trails, playgrounds, campgrounds, and so much more across Michigan, improving quality of life and growing our economy. I am proud that we made the largest investments ever into our state and local parks over the last few years. Let’s keep investing in Pure Michigan.”
“This generous grant underscores the commitment to fostering recreational opportunities for the community’s youth and enhancing the overall quality of life in Big Rapids,” a news release from the city said.
The funds will be dedicated to construction of the Swede Hill Skate Park, which will provide a space for skateboarders and enthusiasts of all skill levels, the release said. The project aims to create a vibrant hub for recreational activities, promoting an active and healthy lifestyle.
“The city is beyond excited to receive this grant,” community development director Michelle Stenger said in the release. “The community has worked extremely hard in making this project a reality and we wouldn’t be able to do it without the support of the citizens and past employees of Big Rapids.”
Big Rapids city manager Mark Gifford echoed those comments, saying the grant is vital to the project.
“I don’t believe it would be happening right now without it,” Gifford said. “Combining these funds from the state with the monies we received from the Consumers Energy ‘Put Your Town on the Map’ program and other locally donated funds, we are working to potentially do the construction this summer.
“Over my tenure with the city, a skate park has been discussed many times, in many ways and in many locations,” he said. “I am so excited that the skating community will finally have a place to call home.”
The total projected cost for the project is $240,950. The city is required to provide a $90,950 match for the Recreation Passport grant funding.
Additionally, the Consumers Energy Foundation grant has provided $25,000 and the committee has raised $2,000 in donations from local. Businesses and citizens.
The Recreation Passport grants are funded from 10% of the Recreation Passport revenues, which include park entry fees, boating access fees, campground fees and trail entry fees.
This year’s grant program funded projects in Allegan, Barry, Berrien, Crawford, Ingham, Ionia, Mecosta, Montmorency, Ontonagon, Roscommon, St. Clair and Tuscola counties.
The application period for the next round of grants will open in 2024, with applications due April 1.
To learn more about the program or to apply, visit: michigan.gov/DNRGrants.
