The City of St. Johns has been awarded its first-ever Recreation Passport Grant, securing the maximum amount of $150,000 from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to breathe new life into Senior Citizen Park.
The grant will be combined with approximately $250,000 in local contributions to fund Phase One of park improvements. The planned upgrades include new fencing, sidewalks, parking enhancements, a swinging bench, and additional site restoration work to support the installation of six new pickleball courts—a highly requested recreational feature in the community.
“This is an exciting moment for St. Johns,” Mayor Scott Dzurka said. “Securing our first Recreation Passport Grant reflects the strong vision we have for expanding recreational opportunities for all residents. The improvements planned for Sr. Citizen Park will enhance wellness, community gathering, and the vibrancy of our public spaces. The Recreation Passport Grant also provides the City with multiple years to collaborate with partner agencies and regional entities to finalize the required matching funds.”…