Columbia Receives GM Grant for Downtown Greenspace & Safety Upgrades

Issue #003

20 Feb

In this What’s Up Columbia issue…

📆 List of Upcoming Events

☀️ Columbia Weather - Sunny with a high of 61

📰 Columbia Receives GM Grant for Downtown Greenspace & Safety Upgrades

🥶 Freezin’ for a Reason: Muletown Polar Plunge on Feb 25th

🌳 Culleoka Park Takes a Step Forward

Upcoming Local Events

February 20th

February 21st

February 22nd

February 23rd

February 24th

February 25th

February 27th

February 29th

March 1st

Columbia Receives GM Grant for Downtown Greenspace & Safety Upgrades

The GM on Main Street Grant Program recently awarded five grants to nonprofit organizations and municipal government entities, focusing on those near GM facilities and including four Main Street programs. Each recipient was granted $50,000, reflecting a 50% increase from the 2023 award amounts. This initiative, made possible by General Motors, emphasized placemaking, innovation, inclusivity, pedestrian safety prioritization, and the replicability or scalability of proposed projects for other Main Street programs.

Heidi Magyar, the Executive Director of Corporate Giving at GM, highlighted the program's impact on fostering place-based progress in communities across the United States. Magyar expressed pride in collaborating with Main Street America to connect resources with essential nonprofit and municipal projects.

Among the recipients, the City of Columbia, designated as a Main Street America accredited community, secured a GM on Main Street grant for its Columbia Infrastructure and Greenspace Improvement project. This initiative aims to enhance safety and pedestrian-friendliness in downtown Columbia, Tennessee, through infrastructure and greenspace enhancements.

Despite having an already appealing and vibrant downtown area, the City of Columbia identified the need for improvements to ensure the safety of pedestrians and motorists while elevating the overall placemaking experience. The proposed Columbia Infrastructure and Greenspace Improvements Project encompasses curb extensions, expanded greenspace, and an informational kiosk. These enhancements intend to boost safety for downtown pedestrians and motorists, provide additional greenspaces and passive areas for visitors, and cultivate a more robust sense of place by showcasing Columbia's unique businesses, attractions, and history.

Other 2024 GM on Main Street grantees are: Bowling Green, Kentucky - Hapeville, Georgia - Holly, Michigan - Pontiac, Michigan

Freezin’ for a Reason: Muletown Polar Plunge on Feb 25th

 

Participate in the Muletown Polar Plunge on February 25 to support Special Olympics Area 6. This event aims to raise $20,000 for special needs athletes participating in the Special Olympics, with $1,500 raised so far.

To take the frigid plunge, individuals or teams can register with a minimum entry fee of $75 ($50 for students). Each participant will receive an official "Freezin’ for a Reason" t-shirt and bragging rights. Additional swag, such as a stocking hat, event logo sweat pants, or a backpack, is available for those raising more funds. Super fundraisers contributing $3,000 or more will receive a Yeti cooler. A $10 down payment fee is required for participation.

Participants are encouraged to wear costumes, with awards for the best costumes and themes. If you prefer to stay dry, you can still contribute by donating to the cause.

The Polar Plunge involves jumping into icy cold water, a tradition that dates back to 1904. While it offers health benefits like an adrenaline rush, blood sugar regulation, and fat burning, individuals with heart issues are advised not to participate due to increased heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing.

The Muletown Polar Plunge will take place at Muletown Rec (1446 Oak Springs Drive, Columbia). Registration/check-in starts at noon, and the plunge begins at 1:00 p.m. Don't miss the chance to support a great cause and experience the thrill of Freezin' for a Reason!

Culleoka Park Takes a Step Forward

Source: Tennessee Property Viewer

During the February 5th meeting of Maury County’s Health & Environment Committee, Parks & Recreation Director Al Ray provided an update on the $750,000 grant received from the state for Culleoka Community Park improvements.

Acquired in 2021, the 16-acre undeveloped land on Mooresville Pike, bordering a stream west of the community’s center, is set for enhancements. The planned improvements under the Local Parks & Recreation Fund include utilities, parking, signage, lighting, paving, a picnic shelter, playground, restroom, and a walking trail with three picnic pads/tables. With a local match and consultant fees, the project is estimated to cost just over $1.26 million, and the county has three years to complete it.

A related budget amendment was forwarded to the Budget Committee for consideration later this month.