Accessible park in Islandview neighborhood launches crowdfunding campaign

A group on Detroit's east side is working to build a new park for the neighborhood. The Boggs Educational Center Project Team (BECPT), with the James and Grace Lee Boggs School, launched a crowdfunding campaign earlier this month that will help complete their vision. 

Boggs Park will have gardens, a playscape, public art, four-foot and six-foot pathways for accessibility, accessible playgrounds, and seating to accommodate wheelchairs. It's located next to the Boggs School on Goethe Street, just south of Mack. 

The group is working with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's (MEDC) Public Spaces Community Places on the Patronicity campaign. Their goal is to raise $75,000 from the community, and the MEDC would provide a matching grant. The group used an initial $150,000 grand from the Kresge Foundation on community engagement and design.

Funding will go towards installing park equipment, surfacing under the play equipment, and wheelchair- and stroller-accessible benches and tables. They're also looking to add art installations and improve the safety for pedestrians and wheelchair users in their parking lot. 

“Every person deserves the opportunity to enjoy a park. Boggs Park will provide a fully accessible space that recognizes and values the unique needs and abilities of every individual,” said Julia Putnam, principal of the James and Grace Lee Boggs School. “This park will demonstrate the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in our public spaces. We look forward to working with our partners and neighbors to raise the funds needed to make Boggs Park a reality.”

BECPT is also working with the Field Street Block Club, Brilliant Detroit, and Detroit Disability Power on the park. 

The fundraising campaign will run through July 17.