Midland, MI - March 20, 2008
The Dow Chemical Company is the first community partner to step forward and contribute to the cost for redeveloping the old Andersen Water Park.
Saginaw City Manager Darnell Earley announced today that Dow is making a $100,000 grant contribution towards financing the repurposing of the defunct park facility. Proposed plans for the park include a splash pad, skateboard park and other recreational amenities. Dow is also making an in-kind contribution of SYMMATRIX materials to be used in the construction of park furniture and the pier area of the park adjacent to Lake Linton.
“We’re excited that Dow Chemical has embraced our efforts to provide a much needed recreational facility such as this in the City of Saginaw. The actions of Dow today send a strong message throughout the region that our project is not only a worthy one, but is also very achievable”, said Earley. “We will be carrying that message forward as we communicate with other community partners, foundations and those who, like me, want to see this vision transformed into reality.”
“We are pleased to assist the City of Saginaw in revitalizing the park and improving the quality of life in the downtown area,” said David Dupre, Vice President of Michigan Operations. The park will serve as an anchor for Celebration Square - putting the final piece of the puzzle into place.”
The $1.4 million project also received a $59,000 grant last year from the DNR Trust Fund. At their last meeting, the Saginaw City Council approved a resolution to apply for an additional $480,000 DNR Trust Fund grant for the project. Earley plans to begin the demolition and site preparations as the first phase of the project sometime over the next two months.
According to the City Manager, “Depending of course on our successful fund raising, the development of the second phase of the project is slated for Spring 2009 with the goal of opening the park in the Spring of 2010.”
Private donations and other contributions toward the project can be made through the Saginaw Community Foundation at (989) 755-0545.
About Dow
For Editorial Information:
Jennifer Heronema
The Dow Chemical Company
989-636-9142
