Funding for new pavilion with bathrooms at Hickory Creek Park continues

STEVENSVILLE, Mich. -- Stevensville Village Council spent the past four years developing a project to build a much-needed pavilion with public access bathrooms at Hickory Creek Park.

The council alongside the parks committee worked together to approve this project and came to a conclusion that the park needed to expand.

After putting out a survey about their park systems, the community's biggest feedback was the lack of restrooms, highlighting the need for a pavilion at Hickory Creek Park.

Hickory Creek Park has already been awarded the state grant from (MEDC) the Michigan Economic Development Corporation to support the community’s development but under some terms and conditions.

The council will need to raise $75,000 to secure the state grant and they will match it, making up the total of $150,000 needed to see these major upgrades.

The project has seen the impacts of inflation and some ups and downs throughout the project, but the village council is excited to see this finally come to life.

American Electric Power and the Upton Foundation alongside other local businesses have made significant contributions pushing them to the current $15,000 they already have in donations.

The work is not over, and community support is needed as they race to gather another $60,000, they need to reach their goal.

Stevensville Village Council President David Wenger explains the details of the new pathway to additional trails and resources they will soon develop in the area.

“On the side of just looking at this as a pavilion with bathrooms and a kitchen in it, we really want this to kind of be, you know, a cornerstone for the community but also a recreational hub.” said Wegner “There are other entities that are building trails along Hickory Creek here. There will be some private funding for a bridge that will be able to connect some additional park areas along with the jump park behind us.”

The community’s support is essential in making the project a success. If the money is raised the project is expected to begin next spring.