House approves Cass County park grant

The Michigan House this week approved a state grant to make the Dodd Park Water Trail in Cass County more accessible.
State Rep. Aaron Miller said the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grant is included in House Bill 5377 to install new, barrier-free fixtures at the trail.
The $277,000 project development grant is one of 44 such recommendations made by the MNRTF board of trustees for projects in 30 counties. The board also recommended 26 recreational land-acquisition grants across the state.
Miller said the development will make the park on the Dowagiac River more accessible for people with physical challenges.
The funding will be used to install new barrier-free restrooms and a campground, complete with two cabins, picnic grills and fire rings, along with accessible pathways. The development also includes a Universal Design compliant kayak/canoe launch, a bridge and a parking expansion.
The measure now goes to the Senate for consideration.