Kellogg Community College today announced that construction has begun on a campus improvement project that will beautify a well-traversed corridor on Battle Creek’s north side.
The project at the intersection of North and Roosevelt avenues in Battle Creek will include a paved pedestrian path, a large “Welcome to Battle Creek” monument sign, sculpture pad, bike rental station and new landscaping that includes trees and native plants. The intent is to create a welcoming atmosphere and inviting place for people to gather, walk or ride on campus. The new path will be located near the College’s tennis courts and connect with the city’s Linear Park pathway system.
In celebration of its 100th year of volunteerism and service in greater Battle Creek, the American Association of University Women has commissioned a sculpture by Paula Blincoe-Collins, a Harper Creek High School graduate and former KCC student. The sculpture will be installed on campus near the new KCC sign.
The $333,000 improvement project is financially supported by KCC, the Battle Creek Community Foundation, Calhoun County Visitors Bureau, the KCC Foundation and individual donors. Other partners include the City of Battle Creek and Leila Arboretum Society.
“As an anchor institution, KCC is delighted that the neighborhoods near our campus are in a process of revitalization and we are committed to likewise being a conscientious and helpful neighbor on the north side of Battle Creek,” KCC President Mark O’Connell said. “We are grateful to our partners on this project and we are pleased to be able to improve our grounds for the benefit of our students and guests while creating an aesthetically pleasing gateway for the greater community.”
The improvements on the northwest corner of the College’s North Avenue campus are expected to be complete in early August. In the future, pending the availability of additional funds, the project may include a second phase with lighting, benches, more sculpture pads and a recycling bin. KCC began approaching potential community partners about the project in 2017 after work had begun on the new Miller Physical Education Building, which was completed in 2018.
Click here to download a full-size, high-resolution image of the above project rendering.
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