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eMacomb - Progress through Partnerships, Fall 2016
Crowdfunding campaign announced for MacArthur Park Kayak & Canoe Launch
The Clinton River Watershed Council (CRWC), Mount Clemens and Macomb County have launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise funds to install a universally-accessible kayak and canoe launch at MacArthur Park in downtown Mount Clemens.
“Our goal is to raise $60,000 in 60 days,” said Tara Beatty, CRWC development director. “If we reach our goal, the Michigan State Housing Development Authority and Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s Public Spaces Community Places will match our donations up to $50,000 for the MacArthur Park project.”
The park project will help create a link between the riverfront and downtown Mount Clemens while enhancing MacArthur Park with improved facilities that will highlight a key recreational asset in the community and in the region. Additionally, the park will feature universally-accessible restrooms, picnic tables, murals and kayak storage lockers, among many other amenities.
“Adding a universally-accessible kayak launch at MacArthur Park will allow users of all abilities the opportunity to experience all that Mount Clemens and the Clinton River have to offer,” said Mount Clemens Mayor Barbara Dempsey.
MacArthur Park was one of 12 kayak and canoe launch locations identified by the CRWC through a grant provided by the Coastal Zone Management under CRWC’s WaterTowns program, which focuses on community-based placemaking initiatives to help towns and cities in the watershed leverage the assets of the Clinton River, its tributaries and Lake St. Clair for water-oriented community development. If their funding goal is reached, it will be the first universally-accessible launch to be fully funded and installed.
Donations of any amount from the public are greatly encouraged and appreciated.
“Every donor will receive a reward for their support, ranging from paddling accessories to onsite recognition at MacArthur Park to launch naming rights or even an exclusive VIP paddle when the launch opens,” said Beatty.
Recreational enthusiasts, residents and businesses alike can help reach this fundraising goal by making an online donation at patronicity.com/project/macarthur_park_river_access or by contacting CRWC at (248) 601-0606. The deadline to make a donation is Thursday, Jan. 12, 2017.
