Frequently Asked Questions
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Main Street Park Alliance 501(c)(3)
EIN#87-4649088P.O. Box 222, Chelsea, MI 48118
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In August 2023 Main Street Park Alliance purchased the property from Magellan Development Corporation. The property was previously owned and operated by Federal Screw Works.
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MSPA has performed extensive environmental due diligence over the past 2.5 years. MSPA has completed Phase 1 & 2 testing, submitted the Baseline Environmental Assessment (BEA), Response Activity Plan, and Due Care Plan to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE).
MSPA is working closely with the City of Chelsea, SME (their environmental consultant), EGLE and Washtenaw County Brownfield Authority to create the safest, most comprehensive plan.
Environmental remediation began in the fall of 2024 with soil removal concentrated in the SW corner of the property. In April 2025 the work will continue, an estimated 27,000 tons of soil will be removed from the site.
Learn more —> Main Street Park Environmental Remediation Facts Sheet
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MSPA signed a Development Agreement with the City of Chelsea in 2023, committing to transform a long-blighted industrial site into a vibrant public park. Upon completion, MSPA will transfer ownership to the City of Chelsea, which will manage operations and maintenance. MSPA will help fund a reserve fund to contribute to the City’s Park & Recreation expenses.
This project aligns with Chelsea’s Master Plan by revitalizing 2.8 acres in the historic downtown, adding green space, and enhancing community connectivity. In partnership with MSPA, the City has helped secure grant funding, administer grants, oversee environmental planning and remediation, and contribute to the design process and long-term sustainability. This collaboration brings $2M in environmental remediation funding and builds a lasting community asset.
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Main Street Park Alliance will raise the necessary funds to purchase the property, design and build the Park. Donations will be sought from community members, foundations, corporations, and local, regional, and state grants and available monies. To date MSPA has financial commitments for nearly 80% of the project costs.
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Main Street Park Alliance is excited to partner with Viridis Design Group, a renowned firm that creates inspiring, sustainable public spaces that harmonize with the natural environment. As an award-winning team, Viridis brings expertise and enthusiasm to the project, collaborating closely with MSPA and our dedicated community. They will lead a comprehensive public engagement process to ensure the park reflects the vision and needs of our unique community. Viridis will develop the construction documentation and oversee construction to ensure the highest quality and integrity of the park build.
To learn more about where we are in the process visit our Design Process page.
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The conceptual renderings of Main Street Park showcase potential features such as a splash pad, skate park, walking paths, multisport court, playgrounds, and climbing structures. The final selection will be guided by environmental factors, community input, the City of Chelsea, the Chelsea Parks & Recreation Master Plan, and stakeholder focus groups. MSPA is committed to prioritizing youth engagement, particularly involving middle and high school students, to shape the park’s design. Additionally, sustainability and long-term maintenance will be key considerations to ensure the park remains a vibrant and well-maintained community asset for years.
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MSPA is estimating that the build will be completed by summer 2026.
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The park construction will cost just over $6.8 million. The total project costs will be $10 million over 5 years, with $2 million spent on environmental remediation.
MSPA has no salaried employees. All members of this team work on a voluntary basis.
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