CITY OF BRIDGMAN AWARDED $158,000 STATE GRANT FOR BRIDGMAN SIDEYARD PROJECT

CITY OF BRIDGMAN AWARDED $158,000 STATE GRANT FOR BRIDGMAN SIDEYARD PROJECT

Bridgman, MI — October 22, 2024 — The City of Bridgman is excited to announce it has been selected as one of 27 communities across Michigan to receive funding from the Michigan Shared Streets and Spaces Grant (SSSG) Program. Governor Gretchen Whitmer awarded a total of $6.5 million to municipalities and transit agencies, with Bridgman receiving $158,000 to enhance public spaces and improve mobility infrastructure. This one-time state appropriation requires no local match.

The Bridgman Sideyard project, located adjacent to the hugely successful Bridgman Courtyard, will serve as phase 2.0 of the city’s efforts to revitalize its downtown. Both the Sideyard and the Courtyard are officially part of the City's parks system, and this new project will further enhance public space downtown. Early concepts for the project include reinstating a curb, a bike repair station, bike rack, water fountain, shade structures, and areas designed for rest and relaxation. The City is committed to engaging the community over the winter to gather input and ensure the project meets the needs and desires of residents before finalizing the design.

The City partnered with Changemaker Studio, who was instrumental in bringing this project to life—from penning the grant application to creating the renderings that helped visualize the space. The Southwest Michigan Planning Commission (SWMPC) also provided valuable advisory support during project development to ensure alignment with regional goals. Together, these efforts ensured the Sideyard aligns with Bridgman’s vision for sustainable community development.

City Manager Juan Ganum emphasized the project’s broader impact on Bridgman, saying, “The Sideyard is a key step in making our downtown more accessible and vibrant. This funding allows us to continue building a connected, welcoming community that supports both residents and visitors.”

Parks & Recreation Director Sara Ball added, “We want to hear from the community this winter to make sure the Sideyard really fits what people want. It’s all about creating a space where everyone can hang out, relax, and enjoy being downtown—whether they’re walking, scootering, biking, or just passing through.”

Construction on the Bridgman Sideyard is expected to begin in 2025, following the community engagement phase. The City looks forward to sharing more details and working closely with residents to bring this exciting vision to life.

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