The City of Michigan City has launched a capital campaign for the new Fedder’s Alley All-Inclusive Playground and Fitness Park to raise the remaining $2 million in funds needed to successfully complete the $5 million project.
The park will include music and art features, cocoon play-pods for individuals who experience sensory overload, as well as a trail, slide, and merry-go-round that will all be Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessible.
It also will feature new fitness stations for older park patrons to get and stay healthy and in shape.
Indiana First Congressional District Rep. Frank Mrvan, who is working with the city to secure $1 million in federal funding for the project, feels that this is an initiative worth fighting for and views the park as a reflection of Michigan City’s values.
“We're not just celebrating the beginning of this park here today,” Mrvan said. “We are also celebrating our community’s commitment to inclusivity and quality of life. This park will be a space that any resident of Northwest Indiana can come to and enjoy, regardless of their age or ability.”
Michigan City Parks Superintendent Shannon Eason expects the Fedder’s Alley All-Inclusive Playground and Fitness Park to have a significantly positive impact on the social development of the community’s youth.
“Play is a fundamental part of childhood,” Eason said. "It's a universal language that transcends all barriers. When designing this playground, we wanted to ensure that people of all abilities – whether they have hearing, mobility, or vision impairments – can enjoy it.”
Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch appreciates the effort that Eason, the Parks Board members, and Michigan City Common Council President Don Przybylinski have put into making the all-inclusive park a reality.
“The development of this park is a labor of love for us,” Nelson Deuitch said. “We’re determined to push forward, raise the money we need for the park, and make sure that this project is a success. We look forward to seeing you all at our ribbon cutting next fall.”
Video renderings of the project are viewable by the public at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rHo0Lzwy7WE.
Those interested in supporting the park’s development are encouraged to donate funds independently or at one of the fundraising events planned in the coming year.
For more information on the Fedder’s Alley All-Inclusive Playground and Fitness Park campaign and the City of Michigan City’s upcoming projects, visit emichigancity.com.
