BITELY, Mich. -- A free ribbon-cutting and open house ceremony tomorrow in Newaygo County will mark a milestone in the Woodland Park Historic Signage Project.
The event will run from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Woodland Park in Bitely. The Right Place said the project includes 11 sign locations and features more than 20 interpretive panels that highlight historic buildings, local legends, and the unique stories that shaped Woodland Park.
The effort was supported by a grant from the Fremont Area Community Foundation and facilitated by the Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership.
Clark Communications provided more information in a news release:
The Woodland Park Historic Signage Project is officially complete, marking a meaningful milestone in preserving and honoring the legacy of one of Michigan’s most culturally significant communities. The public is invited to celebrate the culmination of the project at a free ribbon cutting and open house event on Thursday, August 8, from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. at the Woodland Park Property Owner’s Association.
Community members are encouraged to attend, explore the signage, and help celebrate this important addition to Woodland Park’s landscape and legacy. The project includes 11 sign locations and features more than 20 interpretive panels that highlight historic buildings, local legends, and the unique stories that shaped Woodland Park. From tales of entrepreneurship and entertainment to accounts of community resilience, the signage offers a self-guided tour that brings Woodland Park's rich history to life for residents and visitors alike.
“This project has been a true labor of love,” said Julie Burrell, Senior Economic Development Director for The Right Place and project manager for the effort. “The goal was to honor the past, engage the present, and create something lasting for future generations — and we’re proud of what’s been accomplished.”
"The success of this initiative was made possible by the collaborative work of many dedicated partners. A group of community members spent countless hours gathering stories, confirming local history, finding photos and pouring the love for Woodland Park into this project," added Burrell.
The Woodland Park Historic Signage Project was supported by a grant from the Fremont Area Community Foundation and facilitated by the Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership, powered by The Right Place.
About The Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership:
The Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership, powered by The Right Place, is an advisory board under the Newaygo County Board of Commissioners and is responsible for oversight and leadership of economic development in Newaygo County.
About The Right Place:
The Right Place, Inc., is a regional nonprofit founded in 1985 with the mission to drive sustainable economic growth and shared prosperity for all in the Greater Grand Rapids Region. The Right Place works to achieve this mission by focusing on three core areas: People, Place, and Prosperity. The Right Place is an Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO) as designated by The International Economic Development Council. Find out more by visiting www.rightplace.org, liking us on Facebook, and following us on LinkedIn.