Flint, October 17, 2025
Planners in Flint are prioritizing the installation of lighting and fountains to improve the new state park. These enhancements aim to create a welcoming environment for recreational activities while also revitalizing the urban area through aesthetic improvements. The initiatives reflect a commitment to enhancing public spaces and promoting community engagement in Flint.
Flint, Michigan Enhances Riverbank Park with Lighting and Fountains
Flint, Michigan is undertaking significant enhancements to Riverbank Park, aiming to create an inviting recreational space and revitalize the urban area through aesthetic improvements. The project focuses on installing new lighting systems and restoring fountains to enhance the park’s appeal and functionality.
Project Details
The development plan includes the installation of a comprehensive lighting network to improve safety and extend park usability into the evening hours. Additionally, the restoration of the Grand Fountain Block and Waterwall Block fountains is set to bring back the park’s iconic water features, contributing to its visual and auditory ambiance. These enhancements are part of a broader effort to address longstanding challenges related to safety, accessibility, and maintenance within the park.
Background Context
Riverbank Park, located along the Flint River, has been a central feature of the city’s waterfront since its completion in the early 1980s. Designed by landscape architect Lawrence Halprin, the park originally featured a series of interconnected blocks with market stalls, an amphitheater, and water-based elements like fountains and canals. Over time, the park faced issues such as deteriorating conditions and underutilization, prompting the need for revitalization efforts.
The Flint Riverfront Restoration Plan envisions an improved waterfront at Riverbank Park, transformed by enhanced physical and visual access to the river. Restoration efforts will address longstanding obstacles presented by the existing park infrastructure to safety, accessibility, and maintenance. Design recommendations include creating new access points to the Flint River, constructing ADA accessible pathways, installing a new lighting network, restoring the fountains at both Grand Fountain Block and Waterwall Block, and restoring the public restroom.
In October 2024, the U.S. Department of the Interior awarded a $5 million grant through the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program to support the development of a new state park in Flint, which includes Riverbank Park as one of its five units. This funding is intended to create new upland recreation amenities, including pavilions, picnic tables, benches, bike racks, barbecue stations, restroom facilities, an outdoor exercise station, and accessible sidewalks, pathways, and ramps. The grant also aims to implement safety measures such as handrails, a lighting network, and improved sightlines.
Construction for the new state park is underway, with enhancements expected to continue through 2026, when the project is anticipated to be completed. The development of this state park marks a significant milestone in Flint’s ongoing efforts to revitalize its urban spaces and provide residents and visitors with enhanced recreational opportunities along the Flint River.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What enhancements are being made to Riverbank Park in Flint, Michigan?
Flint, Michigan, is undertaking significant enhancements to Riverbank Park, focusing on installing new lighting systems and restoring fountains to improve the park’s appeal and functionality.
What is the purpose of the $5 million grant awarded to Flint’s Riverbank Park?
In October 2024, the U.S. Department of the Interior awarded a $5 million grant through the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program to support the development of a new state park in Flint, which includes Riverbank Park as one of its five units. This funding is intended to create new upland recreation amenities and implement safety measures.
When is the construction of the new state park in Flint expected to be completed?
Construction for the new state park is underway, with enhancements expected to continue through 2026, when the project is anticipated to be completed.
Key Features of Riverbank Park Enhancements
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Lighting Network | Installation of a comprehensive lighting system to improve safety and extend park usability into the evening hours. |
| Fountain Restoration | Restoration of the Grand Fountain Block and Waterwall Block fountains to bring back the park’s iconic water features. |
| Accessibility Improvements | Creation of new access points to the Flint River, construction of ADA accessible pathways, and installation of handrails and ramps. |
| Amenity Upgrades | Installation of pavilions, picnic tables, benches, bike racks, barbecue stations, restroom facilities, and outdoor exercise stations. |
| Safety Measures | Implementation of safety measures such as improved sightlines and a lighting network to enhance park security. |
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Author: Construction NC News
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