The Marshall Area Economic Development Alliance is partnering with Ford and local organizations to create a greenspace plan for the city of Marshall and areas near the BlueOval Battery Park Michigan facility and the Marshall Area Jobs, Opportunity and Recreation (MAJOR) Campus, according to a community announcement.
When Ford announced plans for BlueOval Battery Park Michigan in 2023, the project included a large conservation easement along the north side of the Kalamazoo River. MAEDA is also working to preserve the nearby 36-acre Bear Creek historical property, which could feature a park and trail connecting to a new pedestrian path over I-69 and future recreational trails on the MAJOR Campus.
The plan includes creating trails on the MAJOR Campus and a nature trail along the river easement that could link to the North Country Trail. Additional efforts involve planting trees and establishing a green buffer throughout the campus.
“We are excited about the opportunity to create a plan for 500 acres of greenspace that can be used by local residents as well as those visiting our community,” said James Durian, CEO of MAEDA. “As we have moved along in this planning process, conservation and sustainability have been key parts of Ford’s development in Marshall.”
Ford’s preservation efforts include donating $25,000 earlier this year to help Marshall purchase 60 trees, supporting its Tree City USA designation.
“Working with groups in Marshall on greenspace development plans and sustainability is part of our mission to be a great neighbor and employer,” said Gabby Bruno, Ford’s community relations director. “We are committed to making long-lasting investments in the community that will benefit local residents long into the future.”
For more information, visit maeda.org.
This story was created by Dave DeMille, ddemille@gannett.com, with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.
This article originally appeared on Battle Creek Enquirer: MAEDA and Ford partner on greenspace and trail development in Marshall
Reporting by Dave DeMille, Reporter assisted by AI / Battle Creek Enquirer
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