LANSING, Mich. – In a bid to enhance public spaces across Michigan, new initiatives are being launched under the Public Spaces Community Places (PSCP) crowdgranting program. Among the projects are a revitalization of a historic site with walking tours and a project that aims to make a park and kayak launch universally accessible, transforming underutilized areas into vibrant public assets.
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the Michigan Municipal League have announced these projects, which will be supported through crowdfunding efforts on the local platform Patronicity. If these campaigns meet their fundraising targets by their deadlines, they will receive matching grants funded by the PSCP program.
Beginning on June 8, the campaign for The New Inclusive Thurston Park in Central Lake was initiated. This project aims to enhance the park, a central gathering spot, by adding features to make it accessible to everyone. Enhancements will include accessible sidewalks, a universally accessible kayak launch, picnic tables, benches, drinking fountains, restrooms, and parking spaces. These additions will better connect the park to downtown Central Lake and enhance its role as a key access point on the 100-mile Chain of Lakes Water Trail. The campaign runs until August 6, with more details available at patronicity.com/thurston.
Set to launch on June 12, the Union City Cornerstones Walking Tour will enable the Union City Society for Historic Preservation to highlight seven historical sites around the Village. The project seeks to bolster local pride and awareness by featuring sites like Underground Railroad locations, artistic murals, sculptures, and historical buildings. Each site will include interpretive signage and QR codes linked to historic photos and videos. The campaign will conclude on August 12, and further information can be found at patronicity.com/cornerstones.
“Creating public spaces that are accessible to all and build civic pride and cognizance of local history is vital to quality community development,” stated Paula Holtz, MEDC Managing Director for Regional Development. “We are proud to provide resources for these efforts through our Public Spaces Community Places program.”
The Public Spaces Community Places initiative is a collaboration involving MEDC, the Michigan Municipal League, and Patronicity, where residents can contribute to community projects and benefit from MEDC’s matching grants. Eligible communities and organizations can apply via https://patronicity.com/puremichigan.
“Belonging is essential to create thriving communities across our state,” remarked Dan Gilmartin, CEO and Executive Director of the Michigan Municipal League. “Whether emphasizing accessibility so that everyone can participate, celebrating local history, or simply providing a beautiful outdoor space where people can connect with each other, these two projects are wonderful examples of communities fostering a sense of belonging. This is what placemaking is all about.”
Since its inception in 2014, the Public Spaces Community Places initiative has enabled MEDC to provide up to $50,000 in matched funding for community projects throughout Michigan. By June 4, 2026, over $14.7 million in matching grants had been awarded, with 444 projects achieving their goals and raising more than $17.1 million from 77,843 donors, reflecting a 97 percent success rate in reaching fundraising targets and securing matching funds.
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