Lakeside Park Renovation Campaign is Underway

Marquette Lions Club has made a commitment to restore Marquette Lions Lakeside Park located on south Front St in Marquette, MI. On October 14, 1919 the first registered Lions Club of Michigan held their meeting at Lakeside Park. As a centennial project, in October 2019, the Marquette Lions Club applied to the City of Marquette and they approved our request to rename the park Marquette Lions Lakeside Park.

The City of Marquette Parks & Recreation board has since approved our plan of restoration, and we will be pursuing a DNR Passport grant in April of 2022. The Club is tasked with matching 25% of the proposed grant of $128,500, amounting to $32,500. If that application is approved the amount will provide the majority of needed funds to complete the project.

Our match campaign includes requesting financial donations from foundations and private donors, seeking donated labor and materials, and our own Lions Club fundraising efforts. We need your support to continue this tremendous restoration project highlighting Marquette's rich history.

The proposed renovation plan will meet grant criteria by improving ADA accessibility to the park, adding to the over all curb appeal by raised garden beds filled with native plants and pollinators, installing interpretive signage highlighting the historical aspects of the park and surrounding city, and creating a green space for the public to enjoy. The renovated Marquette Lions Lakeside Park will connect the neighboring Father Marquette Park to the north. The improved space will include seating, the planting of shade trees, drinking fountain with water bottle filling spigot and a bike rack. The new sidewalks and fencing will provide a safe walking path for pedestrians, wheelchairs and those pushing strollers.

If you are interested in donating time, money or materials, please click the donate button below or contact Mary Rule at (906) 250-1596.