FLINT, Mich. (AP) - Michigan officials are working with local officials on a proposed state park inside the city of Flint, according to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
Whitmer called it a great opportunity to develop Genesee County’s first state park during a recent appearance with Mayor Sheldon Neeley, according to MLive. Whitmer said it is the only Michigan county without a state park.
“There’s a great opportunity for us to be able to say, ‘We’ve done it,’” Whitmer said.
The focus has been on establishing park land along the Flint River and at Chevy Commons, according to Ron Olson, chief of parks and recreation for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
Olson said there’s been discussion about the revitalization on the riverfront, but said discussions will pause to make sure Neeley is supportive.
Neeley has shown interest in park development.
“The city of Flint is known for its beautiful parks throughout the community that are an asset to our neighborhoods,” Neeley said in a statement. “We welcome the state of Michigan’s investment in Chevy Commons and support the consideration for turning the area into a state park that would remain free and open to all Flint residents.”
It’s not the first time talk of a state park in Flint has emerged. In 2009, former Mayor Dayne Walling backed the idea.
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