Union Township reconstruction project improves safety and accessibility at McDonald and Jameson Parks

What’s Happening: Union Township is putting the finishing touches on its maintenance project at McDonald and Jameson Parks in Mt. Pleasant. Since late September, upgrades have been in full swing and are set to be completed by early December. 

What They’re Saying: “These upgrades are primarily replacement of asphalt paths, parking lots, and fencing. While we are not installing any new facilities, these improvements will prolong the life of the park, improve the aesthetics, and improve access,” explains Mark Stuhldreher, Union Township manager.

“Maintenance is important to keep the facilities up, and I just hope that people enjoy them and appreciate that we have such nice facilities that they can use,” says Kim Smith, Union Township Department of Public Services director.

What’s New: McDonald Park saw complete asphalt replacement to both the parking lots and the walking paths. The expansion of the lots addressed the ongoing issue of lack of parking spots during softball/baseball league season. 

In terms of infrastructure, some of the older pavillion posts were replaced and the wooden bridge that was once covered a segment of the walking trail was removed entirely. The now fully-paved path allows for a more accessible trail for users. 

At both parks, fencing was repaired and replaced. This was the only improvement made to Jameson Park during this project as the township had a separate, larger project there a few years ago. These fencing improvements were leftover from the last project as a lack of funding prevented them from being made. 

How the Project Was Funded: $305,000 of the project came from Union Township’s general fund, and the township received a $200,000 grant from the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe which allowed them to see the project to completion. 

What’s Left in the Reconstruction: Some fencing repairs and guard rail installations around the parking lots at McDonald Park remain for the project to reach completion, which is expected to occur in early December. 

Who Can Use the Parks: The parks have a range of structures that serve a multitude of interests: baseball/softball fields, playground equipment, a paved trail at McDonald Park, pavilions, and more. Both parks have public restrooms that close in the fall and winter. 

The township put up barricades when the asphalt was being redone which are now removed and the parking lots are fully accessible. While the restrooms are closed for the season, the public can still access the parks.