South Michigan News

State Representative Kathy Schmaltz has endorsed a funding initiative that will aid the city of Chelsea in establishing a new park. The project will be supported by a $1,012,500 grant from the Natural Resources Trust Fund, which will facilitate the purchase of 2.8 acres for Main Street Park. Additionally, the city is contributing approximately $463,000 as a local match.

“Main Street Park will be a wonderful place where kids, families, and seniors can come together to enjoy recreation, connect with nature, and build lasting memories,” said Schmaltz. “I’m proud to support this project and grateful that state and local leaders could work together to make it a reality.”

The planned park aims to convert part of the former Federal Screw Works site into an engaging public area. Features include a rock-climbing wall, skateboard area, multi-use sports courts, walking paths, community hearth, multi-use pavilion, seating areas, and four family-style bathrooms. These plans were developed with input from Chelsea residents to create an inclusive space for community engagement.

Chelsea is also seeking additional funds to link the park with the city's non-motorized pathways. This would provide connections to the Border-to-Border Trail as well as local schools and retirement communities.

The Natural Resources Trust Fund grants are outlined in House Bill 4392 which allocates $41.8 million for various land acquisition and recreational development projects across Michigan. These funds originate from mineral development on state lands rather than general tax revenues and are distributed annually in cooperation with local governments.

House Bill 4392 received strong bipartisan support in the House and is now pending further review in the Senate.

In addition to this grant, Chelsea's Main Street Park recently secured another $1 million through Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s Revitalization and Placemaking program.