Located at the east end of Muskegon Lake along the Causeway, Veteran’s Memorial Park is seen as sacred ground to many on the Lakeshore, featuring several war memorials, and a walking path laden with bronze plaques commemorating loved ones who have served in the armed forces, many who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Built in 1934, officials say, however, the park is beginning to show its age, and improvements are needed, as the City of Muskegon has launched a $100,000 crowdfunding campaign with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. The only catch: the city must raise $50,000 by June 23rd to receive a matching grant from the corporation for the other half.
“This project will allow for a beloved community space to become truly public and accessible to all,” said MEDC Executive Vice President of Economic Development Incentives Michele Wildman. “We are pleased to support and provide resources for this project to complete the space through our Public Spaces Community Places program.”
Parks officials say the money will pay for restoring the park’s limestone fountain, while removing stairs in the park and installing ramps instead. New flower beds would also be planted at both sides of the park, as well at the memorial site on the north end.
Meanwhile, several trees that were added in the past at the south end will either be relocated or moved. Officials say the trees have become a safety liability for drivers heading southbound on the causeway.
