September 2022

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View this email in your browser Main Street Park Alliance Purchases Blighted Federal Screw Works Property Hello and thank you for subscribing to our newsletter!   Updates on our behind-the-scenes work:   It has been a busy summer for Main Street Park Alliance (MSPA)! The final details were agreed for the acquisition of the 500 S Main St. property and the purchase agreement was fully executed August 3, 2022. MSPA now has 13 months to complete due diligence on the property to determine if it can be developed into a community park.  MSPA has been in conversations with Chelsea’s new City Manager, Roy Atkinson, and has submitted a proposal to establish a partnership for the development and ultimate operation of the park.  We received a $65k grant from the Washtenaw County Brownfield Authority for conducting the baseline environmental assessment. Environmental testing started  the week of August 8. MSPA in conjunction with its environmental consultants, Michigan Department of Environment Great Lakes and Energy, and relevant parties will assess the property and develop a safe plan for a community park. We had a booth at the Chelsea Fair in the Merchants Building, and continue to participate in the Chelsea Farmers Market. We continue to develop strategic relationships with community stakeholders including nonprofits and businesses.  Julie Deppner, Executive Director and CEO, Silver Maples of Chelesa, shared her sentiments in a letter of support, “It is clear the seniors in Chelsea play an important role in the success of our community. They actively support local businesses, education, and health care facilities. The possibility of bringing additional park space and opportunities to engage in physical activities for our seniors is crucial to their physical health and longevity. Even more important, the creation of an intergenerational gathering space targeted for our senior population and our youth, is critical in enhancing the mental wellness of both populations”.  We have approximately 40% of funding committed!! Help us document support Click to Donate $5  Who We Are: Board Spotlight            Jess Spike                        Amy Heydlauff                     Joe Ziolkowski Our board members all have unique perspectives on why they decided to get involved and volunteer their time for the Main Street Park project. We wanted to give you a chance to get to know them. We would like to introduce three of eleven Board Members; click on their names above to read more ... The Important Role Parks Play in the Community The insight into the critical role that parks play in communities is highlighted in the The GreenWays Initiative that connects communities, fosters increased engagement with the outdoors, promotes healthier lifestyles, and provides safe alternatives to motorized transportation. The Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan has become a national leader in greenways planning and advocacy, consulting with cities and regions throughout the United States about how to replicate their success through their own unique greenways systems. Learn more about the GreenWays Initiative.  Imagine the possibilities... Conceptual Rendering - Dangerous Architects  We can fix this! Federal Screw Works Property The Main Street Park project is for the community by the community!  Join us. We need your help. Contribute to our vision, we are seeking small gifts that demonstrate community support.   Please share this newsletter with your friends and neighbors. Encourage them to reach out to the Chelsea City Council Members and share your excitement for Main Street Park! DONATE $5 Our Mission To create an intergenerational community park for Chelsea. Through the power of grassroot volunteerism, we will revitalize this downtown property for a better human experience. If you have any comments, questions, concerns, feedback or want to support the project with time, expertise or a financial contribution, please email us at info@mainstreetpark.org. Visit our website by clicking on the link below to learn more.  Please note, images, drawings, and videos of the future park are conceptual. The final plans will be dictated by environmental findings, public input, funding, city regulations, etc.  Copyright © 2022, Main Street Park Alliance, All rights reserved.   Main Street Park Previous Previous November 2022 Next Next June 2022 Excited about this project? So are we! Be part of reimagining 500 S. Main Street and help us create beautiful, functional public space. Join our newsletter to keep up-to-date. Main Street Park Alliance 501(c)(3) EIN#87-4649088  P.O. Box 222, Chelsea, MI 48118 info@mainstreetpark.org NEWS & UPDATES DESIGN PROCESS FAQ DONATE NOW © 2025 Main Street Park Alliance 501(c)(3) All Rights Reserved. Website by Kate Zurenko