UNION CITY, MI (WTVB) – The Village of Union City has announced a fund raiser for a major park project for the community. The village says it has joined with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation to launch a new crowdfunding campaign through the Michigan-based platform Patronicity. The campaign will support the construction of a new pavilion/amphitheater and community space behind the community library and across the river from Riverview Park.
If the community hits its crowdfunding goal of $45,000 by October 1, MEDC will provide a $45,000 matching grant with funds made possible by the Public Spaces Community Places program. For project details and to donate, you can visit the website https://www.patronicity.com/project/union_city_park_pavilion#/.
The property has served as an informal community gathering place and organizers say it’s an ideal location for the new park pavilion. Campaign officials say the launch of the project will formalize its use for events such as concerts in the park, festivals, races and runs, youth recreation and more. The park pavilion will have unique features, including improved storm water management, use of recycled materials in pavilion construction, evening lighting, surveillance and LED lighting, handicap accessible river access, and plug and play sound system with weatherproof speakers.
Union City Village Manager James Campfield said the project has been a vision for many years, so it is very exciting that the fund raising is under way. Campfield added that with the support of the community, the Branch County Community Foundation and their newest partner, the MEDC, they are looking forward to the start of construction soon.
Money raised through the crowdfunding campaign will go toward the initial phase one of the project including completion of the site access, graded seating, construction of the shelter pavilion and power for the pavilion lighting and sound equipment.
