BY PHIL CUSTODIO
Clarkston News Editor
Friends of Depot Park are making a year-end push for donations for improvements to Depot Park.
“It’s the last two weeks of the year. If you’re looking for a tax-deductible donation to make before the end of the year, maybe you could do something for the park,” said Eric Haven, Friends member and mayor.
One project for 2020 is a new picnic pavilion near the Bart Clark bridge at the south end of the park.
“We’re looking for concrete and lumber donations, and the high school construct tech students to build it,” Haven said.
Plans include rebuilding the 20-year-old park gazebo, moving it a bit north and making it lower, probably with a wheelchair-access ramp. They’re also looking into a pavilion for seniors with exercise equipment, and more musical instruments, he said.
Long-term plans include a band shell, which would cost about $200,000-$300,000, and a board walk through the wetlands leading to Deer Lake Beach, a million dollar project. Funds come from Friends of Depot Park, Clarkston Optimist Club, state grants, and local donations.
Projects completed since creation of Friends of Depot Park in 2015 include renovation, removal, and replacement of playground equipment with donations and grants from Clarkston Rotary Club, Clarkston Optimists, and residents; artwork by Denyse Couture, Dana Blust, and Clarkston Cultural Arts; donated work by Android Industries of Flint and Clarkston Construction Tech students; and music project by Emily Herrmann. City DPW provided equipment and labor. The city applied for a $50,000 matching grant application with the state DNR for improvements to pathways and handicap accessibility in Depot Park, which was approved last week, said City Manager Jonathan Smith.
“While the MDNR funds must still be approved for release by the Michigan legislature every year, this is fully expected,” Smith said. “The grant will provide funding of $50,000 once the city demonstrates it has spent an equal amount in cash or in-kind work.”
The Friends of Depot Park campaign earlier this year has already raised more than $50,000. The improvements are expected to be installed next summer.
“The city graciously thanks the MDNR and the many local individuals and businesses that contributed to the campaign,” Smith said.
Make donations to The Friends of Depot Park, 375 Depot Road, Clarkston MI 48346.