The Fedder’s Alley All-Inclusive Playground and Fitness Park expected to break ground in 2025 is significantly closer to fruition as a result of a $750,000 grant from the Health Foundation of La Porte.
"The Fedder’s Alley All-Inclusive Playground and Fitness Park will offer opportunities for all ages and abilities," Parks Superintendent Shannon Eason said. "I am grateful for the support of Health Foundation of La Porte’s generous financial support. This exciting project aligns perfectly with their goals of healthy living."
HFL stipulated that $500,000 of the grant award 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 – the first fund of its kind of the Michigan City Parks & Recreation Department.
"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."
In September, the City of Michigan City launched a $2 million capital campaign for the project, which is expected to cost about $5 million overall.
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."
Other commitments to the project include $1.5 million from the Michigan City Common Council, $500,000 from the Michigan City Redevelopment Commission, $1 million in federal funding secured by U.S. Rep. Frank Mrvan, and $50,000 from the Duneland Health Council.
"The benefit of such inclusive spaces extends far beyond mere play and exercise," Eason said. "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."
