An enhancement to a downtown South Haven park is being proposed by the civic organization SHOUT for South Haven.
The group has launched a fundraising initiative for the proposed construction of an outdoor fireplace with accompanying landscaping that would be constructed in Downtown Dyckman Park across from City Hall.
“Dyckman will become a place where all can get together, safely, in the open air, during the long winter season,” said SHOUT president Bob Copping.
SHOUT is a non-profit organization of citizens created approximately 20 years ago. Its most visible annual project is the placement of flowers on the Dyckman drawbridge in the summer and holiday garlands with lights on the span during the winter. The group has also been the impetus through its contributions for the classic clocks on the riverfront and at Dyckman Park, the street lamps on the beaches, the donation of the vintage Wilhelm Baum tugboat at the Michigan Maritime Museum and creation of SHOUT Park along the Black River. The group also launched the popular South Haven Performance, Theatre and Speakers Series.
This project is being called Four Seasons at Dyckman Park.
“The projects supported by SHOUT in recent years speak to the value we place on having appropriate landscaping, including trees, in our projects. That focus will continue with the fireplace project.” said Copping.
“We have carefully considered the location of the fireplace within Dyckman Park so it becomes a downtown wintertime drawing place, visible from the street for downtown visitors to be reminded of its availability and at the same time serve the pavilion ice rink users.”
Pavers will be judiciously used around the fireplace walking area, just as they have been with the clocks. The resultant Fireplace area will have a warm and welcoming landscaped appearance. If all goes as planned, the fireplace will make its debut for winter 2023-24.
“This project supports the city of South Haven’s Economic Development Strategic Plan by contributing to a strong downtown and year-around economy. Moreover, community gathering places like this contribute to a sense of community pride and togetherness,” said assistant city manager Griffin Graham.
SHOUT has pledged $25,000 to kickoff the $100,000 project. In addition, the City of South Haven has obtained a Public Spaces – Community Places Grant through the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). It requires $40,000 in matching donations which must be raised by December 2 to qualify for the State grant. (MEDC Press Release attached below)
“With known intentions to contribute to date, an additional $22,000 needs to be raised toward the $40,000 challenge,” said Copping.
The campaign is being conducted through a crowdfunding platform that allows for tax deductible donations to be made securely through a website — https://www.patronicity.com/project/dyckman_park_improvements#!/. The website also explains commemorative giving opportunities.
Gifts may also be given by check and mailed to SHOUT, Post Office Box 986, South Haven MI 49090. Checks need to be written to the City of South Haven. Gifts in this manner are also tax deductible.
“This is a wonderful opportunity to honor family, remember a loved one or contribute in appreciation of wonderful times in South Haven,” said Copping.
Learn more at the SHOUT Website — https://shoutforsouthhaven.org/
