The City of Morenci is excited to invite the community to a ribbon-cutting celebration for the revitalization of Stephenson Park on Thursday, June 26, at 5:00 PM. The event will be held at 125 E. Stephenson Street and is open to the public.
This celebration marks a major milestone in a transformational project years in the making. In February 2023, the City of Morenci was awarded an $863,500 Spark Grant from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to fund the reactivation of Stephenson Park. Morenci’s proposal was one of just 21 projects selected statewide from more than 460 applications in the first round of the program.
Stephenson Park, originally gifted to the City in the 1860s, once served as a central gathering space in the community. After years of deterioration, the park is being transformed to a modern, accessible public space for play, fitness, and connection.
The redesigned park includes accessible playground installations, a 1/5-mile paved walking path surrounding the park, a full-size basketball court and pickleball court, two pavilions and new seating areas, lighting, accessible parking, and additional site amenities.
The June 26 ceremony will include brief remarks, recognition of project partners, and a variety of family-friendly activities. Community members are invited to enjoy pop-up games, a hot dog roast, and the opportunity to explore the new features. Representatives from the Michigan DNR will also be in attendance, and the City encourages attendees to help welcome them and share appreciation for their support.
The City partnered with Lisa DuRussel, a landscape architect and professor at the University of Michigan’s School for Environment and Sustainability, who led the design and served as Prime Professional. Midwest Contracting, Inc. completed the general contracting work.
Please note: Stephenson Park remains closed while construction is still in progress. Remaining work includes parking lot repairs, installation of final site furnishings, and time for new grass to grow and establish. The site is secured with help from the Morenci Police Department and the construction team. We appreciate the community’s patience during this time and look forward to the full public opening.