Grand Blanc Township established a non-endowed designated fund with the Community Foundation of Greater Flint to support the completion of the Iron Belle Trail Pathway Project.
Grand Blanc Township Launches New “Pathway to Community” Initiative to Complete Key Segment of Iron Belle Trail
GRAND BLANC, MI—Grand Blanc Township is excited to announce the launch of its new initiative, "Pathway to Community," designed to help complete a critical segment of the Iron Belle Trail and other pathways across Grand Blanc Township. This initiative aims to improve connectivity and promote wellness across the Township by developing multi-use and non-motorized pathways in Grand Blanc Township.
As part of the Pathway to Community initiative, Grand Blanc Township is raising funds to support a Genesee County Parks and Recreation project to construct a 2.5-mile path linking Grand Blanc Township with Atlas Township as a segment of the Iron Belle Trail. The Iron Belle Trail is a statewide project designed to create a continuous trail system across Michigan, fostering outdoor recreation and community engagement.
Genesee County Parks and Recreation began work on this project in 2018, with an initial commitment of $50,000 from Grand Blanc Township and over $1.6 million from state and federal grants. However, due to significant increases in construction costs, an additional $758,000 is now needed to complete the project. Phase 1, which involved the construction of the trail in Atlas Township, was completed in August 2024. Phase 2, which will connect Atlas and Grand Blanc Townships, is expected to be finished by 2026.
"We're excited to kick off our fundraising efforts for the Iron Belle Trail and our other non-motorized pathways in Grand Blanc Township,” said Scott Bennett, Grand Blanc Township Supervisor. “With an average of $1 million per year dedicated to recreation and connecting our community, we are leading the region in our commitment to safe, accessible, and vibrant outdoor spaces. This significant investment reflects our dedication to enhancing the quality of life for all our residents.”
“Strong partnerships build strong communities. That’s why Genesee County Parks is excited to partner with the Charter Township of Grand Blanc as we connect communities through the Iron Belle Trail,” said Patrick Linihan, Director of Genesee County Parks & Recreation. “When completed, the Iron Belle Trail will connect Belle Isle State Park in Detroit to Ironwood in the Upper Peninsula. The bridging of communities throughout the State provides for an increase in accessibility and connectivity, along with promoting the economic vitality of the communities it serves. Partnering to leverage needed funding to complete this next section shows how committed municipalities can work together to ensure continued progress.”
As part of the Pathway to Community initiative, Grand Blanc Township established a non-endowed designated fund with the Community Foundation of Greater Flint and contributed $50,000 to help complete phase 2 of the pathway. Donations to this fund will directly support the completion of the Iron Belle Trail Pathway Project. To support this initiative, Grand Blanc Township invites individuals, businesses, and organizations to donate to the designated fund online at cfgf.org/ironbelletrail or by reaching out to Amy Krug, Director of Development at the Community Foundation, by phone at (810)382-0076 or email at akrug@cfgf.org.
“Grand Blanc Township’s 'Pathway to Community' initiative marks a significant step in strengthening local connections and promoting community wellness. By supporting the completion of the Iron Belle Trail and other pathways, we are creating accessible spaces that encourage active, healthy lifestyles for all residents,” said Mark L. Miller, Interim President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint. “This project underscores our collective commitment to building a more connected and vibrant Genesee County community, and we are proud to be part of this transformative effort.”