Washtenaw County – With the finalizing of the State of Michigan’s 2023-24 General Omnibus Budget, Washtenaw County is one step closer to its long-time goal of developing a recreation and community center in the eastern region of the County.
Thanks to tireless efforts of Sen. Jeff Irwin and State Representative Jimmie Wilson Jr., the County has been awarded a $15,000,000 Enhancement Grant by the state to develop the center. The funding contributes to the project, expected to cost upwards of $30M to construct.
“Yesterday’s budget announcement underscores the power of effective partnership between our country and the state. By joining forces, we are able to secure the much-needed funding for a state-of-the-art community center that will serve as a hub of health, wellness, and engagement for our residents. This collaborative effort reflects our shared commitment to enhancing the quality of life in our community and empowering individuals of all ages. Together we are creating a lasting legacy of progress and opportunity.” Commissioner Justin Hodge, District 5, Chair of the Board.
In December of 2022, the Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners allocated $7M in American Rescue Plan Act Lost Revenue funding towards the project. In summer of 2022, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell helped to secure $3M Community Project Fund grant.
“This project represents for us, what community building can and should look like.”, says County Administrator, Gregory Dill, “We are prioritizing the needs of residents. We are leveraging both public and private community partnerships. We are developing this site in way that strategically positions an under-invested area of our county to ensure measurable, positive outcomes for generations of future residents. We are appreciative of the State of Michigan, Sen. Irwin, and Rep. Wilson for seeing and supporting this shared, community vision.”
Washtenaw County is in on-going discussions with Ypsilanti Community Schools to acquire the site of Cheney Elementary (1500 Stamford Rd.) for the new Community and Recreation Center. The nearly 27-acre site is located in both Superior and Ypsilanti Townships, providing an additional opportunity for inter-municipal collaboration. There is space for a state-of-the-art facility, outdoor recreation including parks and sports fields, as well as future development that could benefit community, like mixed-income housing or healthcare amenities.
“I am proud to see this collaboration between the federal, state, county and local government which showcases the power of community,” Commissioner Annie Somerville, District 6, said. “The site chosen for the future Eastern Washtenaw Community and Recreation Center is located in part of the lowest opportunity zone in the entire county. The center will serve as a catalyst for positive change, providing a safe and inclusive space where residents of all backgrounds can come together, connect, and thrive. This project will change lives.”
While Washtenaw County will own the site and the facility, community engagement has been a cornerstone of the development process. Washtenaw County is regularly engaged with the Community Center Advisory Committee in Superior Township, whose on-going engagement is helping to shape the community center space of the project. Elected officials from Ypsilanti Community Schools, Superior Township, Ypsilanti Township, and the City of Ypsilanti continue to be involved. Additional opportunities for community engagement are planned as the project develops.
“This Community and Recreation Center will help break down barriers in Washtenaw County and the Parks and Recreation Commission is committed to the on-going partnership for the facility,” Commissioner Katie Scott, District 9.” I am incredibly thankful to everyone involved in securing funding for this vital project that will have a positive impact on the lives of individuals and families in the community.”
Current plans for the project include world-class indoor and outdoor recreational amenities, youth development programing, resources for older adults, access to childcare and flex space specifically for community and county service offerings.
“After a decade of unwavering dedication, we are thrilled to see the culmination of our community’s tireless efforts in bringing a community and recreation center to the eastern side of the County,” Commissioner Caroline Sanders, District 4, Vice-Chair of the Board. “This is a milestone achievement that will create an inclusive space that will offer opportunities for childcare support, intergenerational programming, and a non-profit hub for our community. I look forward to seeing the immeasurable benefits that this greatly deserved Community and Recreation Center will bring to our County for generations to come.”
