The Stephenson Park public meeting, held on July 31 at Stair District Library, saw a significant turnout of both local residents and city leadership. The purpose of this gathering was to facilitate community engagement as part of the concept design phase of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) Spark Grant project. Landscape Architect Lisa DuRussel and Community and Economic Development Director Heather Sarnac led the session, providing attendees with insights into the grant funding guidelines, design inspiration renderings, and the opportunity to provide feedback. The feedback gathered during the event will help to inform the detailed design of the park, which is currently in schematic design stage.
Once the design documents and bid specifications receive approval from the MDNR, they will be put out for bidding, a process expected to occur during the winter months. The review and selection of contractors will also be subject to MDNR approval, which is slated to be finalized in spring 2024.
The construction phase of the project is set to begin in spring 2024, with an anticipated completion date spring of 2025. These developments mark a significant step forward in the enhancement and revitalization of Stephenson Park, a project eagerly awaited by both the local community and city leadership.
Stephenson Park design renderings are currently on display at City Hall and available to view here.