The Bridgman Courtyard has been selected as one of only four projects statewide competing for the Michigan Municipal League’s (MML) prestigious Community Excellence Award. This remarkable achievement sets Bridgman alongside other top-tier community projects, emphasizing its commitment to community development and excellence.
The Bridgman Courtyard took a once underutilized parking lot and turned it into a community gathering space in the heart of downtown Bridgman. This placemaking effort sparked an exciting plan to transform the space into a community-centric space to be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. The project was celebrated on June 26, 2023 with a dedication ceremony and ribbon-cutting.
In a statement from the Bridgman Council for Growth and Advancement, they say their representatives and officials from the City of Bridgman will be heading to the MML Conference in Traverse City on October 18 to showcase the Bridgman Courtyard project. With over 2,000 attendees, the conference is set to be a significant event where communities from across the state converge. The award winner will be announced on October 20, culminating in an eagerly anticipated moment for all involved.
Leveraging her expertise in marketing, CGA Secretary Tara Heiser took the lead in crafting a compelling narrative for the Bridgman Courtyard project. Her visionary theme, “Bridging our Community with the Bridgman Courtyard”, will be carried throughout the booth design, a meticulously planned presentation and a fun attendee engagement strategy to ensure that Bridgman’s story of community collaboration is told with clarity and impact. Her dedication ensures that Bridgman’s voice is not only heard but resonates powerfully among all attendees.
John Bonkoske, CGA President and Bridgman city council member, expressed his excitement: “Being shortlisted for the MML Community Excellence Award is a testament to Bridgman’s dedication to community enhancement. Our Courtyard symbolizes the spirit of collaboration, innovation, and local pride. We look forward to sharing our journey with other municipalities and are hopeful for a favorable outcome.”
For more information on the MML Community Excellence Award, visit: https://cea.mml.org/
