Crowdfunding campaign launched for the ‘Westminster Park Restoration’ in Rogers City

$20,000 goal to win matching grant through MEDC’s Public Spaces Community Places initiative

LANSING, Mich. – Rogers City’s Westminster Park will soon be revitalized and its historic gazebo will be restored through a new crowdfunding campaign, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the city of Rogers City announced today. The campaign is being offered through the Michigan-based crowdfunding platform Patronicity.

If the campaign reaches its crowdfunding goal of $20,000 by May 31, the project will win a matching grant with funds made possible by MEDC’s Public Spaces Community Places program. For project details and to donate, please visit:www.patronicity.com/project/westminster_park_gazebo_restoration.

“The revitalization of historic assets like Westminster Park is an important way to preserve a community’s memories and ensure that they will be enjoyed for generations to come,” said MEDC Senior Vice President of Community Development Michele Wildman. “We are pleased to support and provide resources for this project through our Public Spaces Community Places program.”

This campaign will see that the historic gazebo is restored, from its shake shingle roof down, before it’s too late and save the space from disrepair. The funding also will provide for vastly improved electrical, a stamped concrete walkway from the downtown sidewalk system to the park, and create some unique activities that fit the scenic nature of the park, such as a large stamped concrete chessboard.

The downtown setting of this park makes it an ideal gathering spot for locals and visitors alike and a great place for both private and public events. The revitalization of the park is an important part of Rogers City’s efforts as a Michigan Main Street community to draw folks into its business district.

“We are so excited to secure these PSCP grant dollars,” said Rogers City Manager Joe Hefele. “Westminster Park, with the historic gazebo that rests within it, is one of the most unique and tranquil places within Rogers City. This funding will help us realize the full potential of this downtown space, turning into the gem it should be for this community.”

Public Spaces Community Places is a collaborative effort of the MEDC, the Michigan Municipal League, and Patronicity, in which local residents can use crowdfunding to be part of the development of strategic projects in their communities and be backed with a matching grant from MEDC. Communities, nonprofits and other business entities can apply at https://patronicity.com/puremichigan.

“The Michigan Municipal League is a firm believer in building community wealth in ways that build on existing assets to enhance the human experience for everyone,” said Dan Gilmartin, the League’s CEO and Executive Director. “Improving the Westminster Park by restoring the historic gazebo, improving walkability, and adding activities does both. With the support of the Rogers City-area community, this effort will improve the human experience for everyone for years to come. That is what community wealth building is about.”

The Public Spaces Community Places initiative started in 2014 with MEDC providing matched funding of up to $50,000 for community improvement projects throughout Michigan. As of April 30, 2022, MEDC has provided more than $9.9 million in matching grants. Since the launch of the program, 310 projects have been successful in reaching their goal, with $11.5 million raised from 52,895 individual donors. Communities have a 97 percent success rate in achieving their goals and earning our matching funds.

About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan’s economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org. For Pure Michigan® tourism information, your trip begins at www.michigan.org. Join the conversation on: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn, and Twitter.