Michigan LCV statement on Gov. Whitmer’s announcement to build new state park in Flint

LANSING – The Michigan League of Conservation Voters today issued the following statement regarding Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s announcement to use $26.2 million from President Joe Biden’s American Recovery Plan funds to create a new state park in Flint. The new state park would be the first in the county and add to four other signature urban parks in Michigan. 

Over the past two months, Gov. Whitmer announced two historic investments in our trails, community parks and recreation facilities, totaling $400 million to be used from American Recovery Plan funding from the COVID-19 stimulus package.  The $26.2 million investment in the Flint state park would be drawn from that funding.  

“Using American Rescue Plan funding to create a new state park in the city is a step in the right direction to revitalizing the community and increasing access to green spaces,” said Lisa Wozniak, executive director for the Michigan League of Conservation Voters. “Parks not only provide access to recreation, but are linked to improved human health, which became crystal clear during the COVID-19 pandemic. We commend Governor Whitmer’s plan to make historic investments in our parks, trails and outdoors. Building a new state park with the Flint community will provide increased access to the outdoors for people throughout Genesee County. We call on lawmakers to approve this important funding.”