Joe Maguire’s family has been an integral part of
Lansing’s River Trail since his father donated the land the started the project years ago. He has continued that tradition with his donation of 12 acres of parkland and $33,000 worth of signage and improvements.
Maguire Park was dedicated this month. The park now includes a new playscape, parking lot with rain gardens, landscaping and signage, including a welcome arch.
“The arch is just great,” says Maguire. “Not only can we help by getting more exposure for the River Trail, but it creates a beautiful front door for the whole trail.”
According the Maguire, his family’s connection to the River Trail expand beyond philanthropy.
“It’s very important as source of recreation for me and my family,” he says. “And more than that, it’s just a such a beautiful way to enjoy Lansing.”
The plans for the sign began about two years ago when the River Trail was expanded into south Lansing. Maguire, architect Bruce Stewart and Richard Schaefer and Murdock Jemerson of Lansing Parks and Recreation worked as a team on the project.
“The arch was designed about a year ago,” says Maguire. “It was really the last thing that came together, and was fabricated in town by
Douglas Steel.”
The 12 acres donated by the Maguire Family has a value of $625,000. Kellie Dean of Dean Transportation also donated land for the park. The City of Lansing funded improvements to the parking lot, play area and park.
Source: Joe Maguire, Wolverine Development
Writer: Natalie Burg, News Editor
Photographs © Dave Trumpie
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