Phase I

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Phase I (2015) – Let’s get the park ready

Two years after the awarding of the MNRTF grant, it was time to get started. Work began on the underground drainage, the bioswales, and preparation of the walking path. With the addition of the amenities for Phase II, we were ready to go to Phase II – the playground!

Pavilion and Comfort Station (restrooms)

  • Covered pavilion with drinking fountains and water filler
  • Restroom includes full-size adult changing table

Parking Lot, walking paths

  • Fully accessible parking lot with barrier-free curbing
  • Accessible walking path (.57 miles)
  • Infrastructure (grading, drainage, plumbing)

We thought Phase I would be the least exciting from a recreation perspective. We were wrong!

From the moment the park was complete, families, runners, walkers, bikers began playing at the park. What was once overgrown and neglected was transformed into a place where people could gather and enjoy the outdoors again.

Funding for Phase I was provided by a $300,000 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund infrastructure grant, matching funds by the City of Fraser, and by donors to the Fraser First Booster Club.

Dollars Raised

  • $300,000 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Grant
  • $200,000 Land Water Conservation Fund Grant
  • Community Foundation of Southeast Michigan and Ralph Wilson Foundation
  • Community Foundation of Southeast Michigan and Detroit Auto Dealers Association

Volunteers

What started as a small group of dedicated volunteers has turned into a project with community-wide support, including hundreds of donors, supporters, and volunteers that have helped make this project a success.

Contributors

Contributors to the project include the hundreds of residents, friends, and supporters, private donors, the City of Fraser, and grants from the State of Michigan and the Land, Water, Conservation Fund.

Barrier-free Park

McKinley Park is a “barrier-free” park and playground, offering accessible outdoor recreation for children and adults of all abilities, with a particular focus on the needs of those with special challenges. 

Ready to make a difference, become a sponsor today!