Parks board approves 95% construction drawings for Fetters Alley inclusive playground; $1.4 million still needed

The Michigan City Parks and Recreation Board voted to approve the 95% construction drawings for the Fetters Alley All-Inclusive Playground and Fitness Park on May 21, moving the project a step closer to bidding while park staff said about $1.4 million remains to be raised before construction can start.

Board members approved the package after a presentation by consultants from Hitchcock Design Group and JPR, who described the design development, site grading, utilities and the restroom/picnic shelter building planned for Fetters Alley.

Shannon, a park department staff member, told the board the project is "still fundraising. We're $1,400,000 short of going to construction," and said late‑fall was a projected target to begin winter work if funding is secured. Joel Baldwin, principal with Hitchcock Design Group, told the board the drawings presented are about "95%" complete.

Why it matters: The project is intended to create an accessible, multi‑generational destination with inclusive play equipment, fitness stations and new trails; board approval of the near‑final construction drawings allows staff to…