Funding continues for a new pavilion with bathrooms at Hickory Creek Park

STEVENSVILLE, Mich. — Stevensville Village Council has spent the past four years developing a project to build a much-needed public bathroom pavilion at Hickory Creek Park.

The council worked with the parks commission to approve this project and came to the conclusion that the park needed to expand.

After conducting a survey of their park systems, the biggest feedback from the community was the lack of restrooms, highlighting the need for a pavilion at Hickory Creek Park.

Hickory Creek Park has already received a state grant from (MEDC) the Michigan Economic Development Corporation to support community development, but with certain conditions.

The council will need to raise $75,000 to secure the state grant and they will match this amount, making the total of $150,000 needed to make these major upgrades happen.

The project has seen the effects of inflation and some ups and downs throughout its life, but the Village Council is excited to see this finally come to life.

American Electric Power and the Upton Foundation, along with other local businesses, have made a significant contribution, bringing them to the current $15,000 they already have in donations.

The work is not over and community support is needed as they race to raise another $60,000 they must reach their goal.

Stevensville Village Council President David Wenger explains the details of the new path to additional trails and resources they will soon develop in the area.

“If we just think of this as a pavilion with bathrooms and a kitchen in it, we really want this to be kind of a cornerstone for the community, but also a recreation center.” Wegner said. “There are other entities building trails along Hickory Creek here. There will be some private funding for a bridge that could connect some additional park areas to the jump park behind us.”

Community support is essential to making the project a success. Once the money is secured, the project is expected to start next spring.