The Lincoln Park band shell may experience a reprise as a downtown concert venue if a crowdfunding campaign and partnership between the city and state succeed.
The campaign to raise $10,000 in donations from the public -- and in turn receive matching funds from the Michigan Economic Development Corp.(MEDC) -- started this week and ends April 16. As of late Wednesday, March 18, the goal was almost met.
The city's effort to raise money to refurbish and reopen the Kennedy Memorial Park Band Shell falls under the Public Spaces Community Places collaboration between the MEDC, the Michigan Municipal League, and Patroncity.
Patroncity sponsors fundraising campaigns that help locals support development of strategic projects in their communities. The donations are matched with MEDC grants. Besides communities, nonprofits and other businesses can apply for crowdfunding projects on
Patroncity.
The redevelopment of Lincoln Park's deteriorating art deco band shell has been identified as a strategic project that could stimulate the local economy. The public performance space brought many acts -- famous and not so famous -- to its stage during the last 50-plus years.
“Name a community and you often think of a building, park, landmark, or some other asset that makes you identify with that city,” says Dan Gilmartin, executive director and CEO of the Michigan Municipal League. “In Lincoln Park, the band shell is one of those attractions. By contributing to this crowdfunding effort, residents - for years to come - can take pride in something they helped revitalize.”
Bob Seger, who attended high school locally for a time, performed many times at the band shell. Members of legendary local rock band the MC5 were Lincoln Park High students and regulars at the band shell before they headed to national fame.
“The Kennedy Memorial Park Band Shell is an important part of Lincoln Park’s history, and with the help of residents, businesses, and others, we can ensure that it is a part of the city’s future,” says MEDC community assistance team specialist Nate Scramlin.
The money raised will pay for repairs and add amenities to the stage, structure, and grounds, as well as bring musical performers to the 1950s-era venue.
“The Band Shell has a classic art deco design and is a jewel for our community,” says Lincoln Park’s emergency manager Brad Coulter. “Refurbishing the structure and restarting regular musical events at the Band Shell is a key piece in reinventing Lincoln Park for future generations.”
Source: Nate Pilon, spokesperson, MEDC
Writer: Kim North Shine
Enjoy this story?
Sign up for free solutions-based reporting in your inbox each week.