Dearborn seeks state grants for Argyle Williamson park and Camp Dearborn inclusive playground

Dearborn’s council on March 18 authorized two grant applications to fund park improvements, including a new playground at Argyle Williamson Park and a fully inclusive playground and splash pad at Camp Dearborn.

The council authorized the director of philanthropy and grants to submit a Recreation Passport grant application seeking $150,000 with a $100,000 local match to develop a new playground at Argyle Williamson Park. The city said many neighborhood playgrounds are beyond their useful life and that newer materials and relocations are needed in some flood‑prone sites.

Council members also authorized a 2025 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) application seeking $400,000 with a $133,400 local match to develop a fully inclusive playground at Camp Dearborn, including a splash pad. Parks and grants staff said the applications align with the city’s five‑year parks and recreation plan and with previous investment at Camp Dearborn.

Mayor and council leaders positioned the grant requests within a broader parks investment program. The mayor said the city has secured substantial outside funding in recent years and described continued reinvestment at parks and Camp Dearborn. “We are continuing to make the investment,” the mayor said, and noted the city’s goal to replace one to two parks per year.

Ending: Both grant applications were authorized by unanimous vote; final award decisions will be made by the respective state grant programs and, if awarded, would require the city to provide the stated local matches.