New campaign aims to secure matching state grant for 2-mile Coopersville trail extension

COOPERSVILLE — A new crowdfunding campaign launched Tuesday aims to complete a crucial 2-mile section of the North Bank Trail through Coopersville, expanding regional trail connectivity across West Michigan.

Led by the Rotary Club of Coopersville, the campaign seeks to raise $50,000 by Dec. 4. If successful, the project will earn a $50,000 matching grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corp.’s Public Spaces Community Places program.

The proposed 2-mile stretch will run through the City of Coopersville between 48th and 64th avenues, bridging a gap to connect with more than 50 miles of regional trail networks, including the Lakeside Trail and the Idema Explorers Trail.

"With this grant funding, it helps us close the gap on the last piece of funding we need for the construction of the trail through the city," said Kate Terpstra, marketing and economic development administrator for the City of Coopersville and a Rotary Club member.

State economic development officials highlighted the broader benefits of the infrastructure investment.

"Connective trailway projects like the North Bank Trail in Coopersville provide a multitude of public benefits, including equitable access to recreation, connectivity with neighboring communities, alternative transportation routes, and strengthened communal health," said Paula Holtz, MEDC managing director for regional development.

The Public Spaces Community Places program is a collaborative initiative between the MEDC, the Michigan Municipal League, and Patronicity, a Michigan-based crowdfunding platform.

Since its inception in 2014, the matching program has awarded more than $15.8 million to 451 community improvement projects across the state, backed by over $17.9 million raised from individual donors.

Donations and project details are available online at patronicity.com/nbt.

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