Community Effort Aims to Transform Edison Neighborhood with Art and Green Space
A vibrant new public art installation and community park is in the works for the Edison Neighborhood in Kalamazoo, Michigan, at the northern edge of Washington Square. This initiative is spearheaded by the Edison Neighborhood Association, local artist Jane Schelhas, and Hollander Development. The project hinges on the success of a crowdfunding campaign with a target of $20,000, which could be matched by a grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s (MEDC) Public Spaces Community Places (PSCP) program.
The innovative project seeks to transform a currently vacant but frequently visited corner into a welcoming entry point for the neighborhood, enhancing its reputation as a burgeoning arts district. The completed park will feature an 8 ft. metal sculpture, sculpture lighting, accessible seating, and a mural, all created by local artists. Additionally, drought-tolerant landscaping and a welcoming sign will beautify the area.
The campaign must reach its $20,000 goal by August 17th to qualify for the MEDC’s matching grant. Interested parties can learn more about the project and contribute by visiting patronicity.com/edison.
Paula Holtz, MEDC Regional Prosperity Managing Director, expressed the project’s significance: “This small space activation in Kalamazoo will have a big impact in welcoming people to this historic neighborhood.” She emphasized the MEDC’s commitment to supporting such initiatives through their Public Spaces Community Places program.
Local artist Jane Schelhaus highlighted the symbolic nature of the project: “Public art represents civic pride and community identity! It says, ‘We care.’ The pocket park provides a peaceful setting to enjoy ‘Art for Art’s sake’ and encourages conversation and neighborhood connections.”
The Public Spaces Community Places initiative, a collaboration between MEDC, the Michigan Municipal League, and Patronicity, empowers local communities to use crowdfunding to develop strategic projects, with the potential for matched funding from MEDC. More information about the initiative can be found at https://patronicity.com/puremichigan.
Dan Gilmartin, CEO and Executive Director of the Michigan Municipal League, noted the importance of the project: “Art is one of many ways people connect with their surroundings, and children especially are drawn to art that they can physically interact with.” He added that the project’s enhancement of a key community gathering space signifies a strong investment in both Kalamazoo and the historic Edison neighborhood.
Since its inception in 2014, the Public Spaces Community Places initiative has successfully funded over 400 community projects across Michigan, accumulating more than $14.2 million in matching grants as of June 2025. The program boasts a 97 percent success rate for communities achieving their funding goals.
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