(Michigan City, IN) - A new all-inclusive playground and fitness park in Michigan City is closer to fruition, thanks to the Health Foundation of La Porte.

 

Earlier this year, the city announced plans for a $5 million recreational project at Washington Park’s Fedder’s Alley. It will include playground equipment for kids of all abilities, a soft running surface, and all-weather exercise equipment.

 

Most of the money has already been raised through federal and local sources. A $750,000 grant has now been awarded by the Health Foundation, which gets the project almost to the finish line. Eric DeWald, president and CEO at HFL, said, "Health Foundation of La Porte is thrilled to partner with the Michigan City Parks and Recreation Department on the Fedder's Alley All-Inclusive Playground and Fitness Park. We are excited about the role this park will play in our community, offering a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment for all community members to gather, be active, and make memories together."

 

HFL stipulates that $500,000 is to be used for construction of the playground and fitness park. The remaining $250,000 is to be used to establish a long-term maintenance fund for the project.

 

“Often, we create these legacy projects that are impactful, but we don’t take the time to consider future maintenance,” Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch said. “This endowment, this maintenance fund – it will make sure the playground at Fedder’s Alley endures for a lifetime.”

 

The Michigan City Parks and Recreation Department hopes to break ground next year. “The benefit of such inclusive spaces extends far beyond mere play and exercise,” said Parks Superintendent Shannon Eason . “It sends a powerful message to our community, teaching us all the values of empathy, respect, and understanding. When community members of all ages and abilities come together in inclusive spaces, they learn to celebrate differences and recognize strengths in one another.”