Consumers Energy recently donated the last $25,000 piece to the Glidden Parker Mural project’s puzzle.
The Jackson-based energy provider announced its $25,000 donation Friday, rounding out $435,000 in corporate, foundation and grant funds that account for 75 percent of the total project costs.
The $583,000 project calls for the construction of a new facility in Horace Blackman Park that will not only protect and preserve the large, lighted mural designed by famed artist Glidden Parker, but will also include an art exhibit, a stage for outdoor music and a drop-down projector for summer movie nights in downtown Jackson.
“Beyond its historical and artistic value, this project will be a focal point in the transformation of downtown Jackson,” said Derek Dobies, 6th Ward Councilman and project spokesman. “Under the strong leadership of Patti Poppe, Consumers Energy continues to be a major player in downtown Jackson’ redevelopment. This donation underscores that commitment to the city.”
Consumers Energy President and CEO Patti Poppe said Consumers Energy is excited to see the city’s core continue to grow.
“Whether it’s new housing, employers, restaurants, stores or projects like this, we are excited to see downtown Jackson flourish,” she said.
Construction crews began work on the downtown landmark late last summer, with a completion date scheduled for spring 2017.
Consumers Energy is the last in a long list of donors for the project, including the National Endowment for the Arts, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, CP Federal Credit Union, The Weatherwax Foundation, the Phil & Pat Willis Foundation, the Dawn Foods Foundation, the Alro Steel Foundation, Experience Jackson and the Jackson Public Arts Commission.
