The city of Hamtramck is preparing a series of groundbreaking ceremonies for the renovation of three city-owned parks: Karol Wojtyla Pope Park, Zussman Park, and Veteran's Park. More than $500,000 is planned for renovating the public spaces.
The city is welcoming residents to join officials from the city of Hamtramck, Wayne County, and the state of Michigan in celebrating the summer construction projects.
A ceremony will kickoff the renovations at Pope Park (10037 Joseph Campau) on Wednesday, July 8, at 10 a.m. Following that event, the train of officials and onlookers will travel to Zussman Park (3401 Evaline St.) for a second groundbreaking party. A third ceremony will be held at Veteran's Park at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, July 14, at the Veteran's Memorial located on Joseph Campau between Goodson and Berres streets.
The renovation of Pope Park has been especially touted, as the park was
the recent target of a crowdfunding campaign which successfully raised $31,307 in contributions as well as a $25,000 grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. In total, more than $100,000 in renovations are planned for Pope Park. Plans call for the removal of a large fence that separates the park from the sidewalk, making the public space more welcoming and accessible to passersby. A restoration of the park's large mural, new seating, and enhanced lighting are also in the works.
A number of changes are planned for the other parks, too, including a multi-age playground, a sustainable wildflower garden, and exercise equipment. Benches and bike racks are also in plans released by city officials.
In addition to the crowdfunding and MEDC money that is earmarked for Pope Park, additional money raised for the parks comes from a number of sources, including Community Development Block Grant funds, Wayne County Parks millage funds, and the Karol Wojtyla Parks Committee.
Writer: MJ Galbraith
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