Michigan’s windfall of federal COVID relief money is being proposed to be spent in a multitude of ways, including a $400 million investment in parks and trails.
The investment is hoped to create new jobs and increase tourism while sprucing up and modernizing the parks and trails system in the state.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer is on the trail herself garnering support for her plan. She has made a few stops statewide to draw attention to the need for park upgrades.
Whitmer said her investment program marks “a once-in-a-generation chance to improve quality of life for our residents, support local economies and bring people back to Michigan as the state continues its recovery from the effects of the pandemic.”
Whitmer continued, saying, “These investments will ensure our children and grandchildren continue to enjoy the rejuvenating benefits of natural beauty and outdoor spaces so prized by Michiganders.” Whitmer said she looks forward to working with the Legislature to secure the investment.
Tourism and recreation-related industry sustain 126,000 jobs and over $4.7 billion in wages and salaries in Michigan.
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
