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If the campaign reaches its crowdfunding goal of $75,000 by Jan. 9, the project will win a matching grant with funds made possible by MEDC’s Public Spaces Community Places (PSCP) program. This project is utilizing the PSCP Universal Design and Accessibility Funding Extension to access funding for existing public spaces that are creating universal design and accessibility in their space. For project details and to donate, please visit: patronicity.com/salute.
“The Salute the Troops Playground goes above and beyond to create a meaningful space for play where all community members are welcomed and can gather and use the space regardless of ability,” said Paula Holtz, MEDC Managing Director for Regional Development. “We are proud to provide resources for this effort through our PSCP program.”
The new playground will be built at the American Legion in Bridgman and will welcome local and regional families and visitors to Southwest Michigan to a place where play and purpose come together. By connecting play with the values of the veterans who serve the community, the playground will teach the next generation about gratitude, respect and the importance of service. The inclusive elements of the development will create a fun and educational experience for children, complete with custom-designed play structures representing all six branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. This includes educational features such as engraved pavers and plaques honoring local veterans, a Navy ship climber, a Marine obstacle course, an Army Jeep, an Air Force fighter jet and a Space Force rocket. The space will also have a memorial garden and reflection area balancing play with remembrance.
The funding from this campaign will complete the following features of the new universally accessible playscape: two van accessible parking spaces with Universal Design (UD) features, an accessible route with UD features, three dispersed benches, artificial turf that complies with UD’s requirement for a smooth and continuous ground surface and a ramp providing access to inclusive play components supporting the UD principle of access to both ground-level and elevated-level activities. This development will strengthen the intergenerational connection between veterans, their families, and the community.
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