BYRON, Mich. (Mid Michigan Gazette) — Dozens of community members gathered in Byron’s downtown area to welcome a new addition that the entire village can enjoy.
On Friday, Oct. 31, 2025, local leaders and partners cut the ribbon on the Village of Byron’s new “Pocket Park”, which contains two pavilions and multiple benches.
“I am beyond thrilled to welcome you here today to celebrate this exciting moment for our village,” Byron’s Downtown Development Authority (DDA) Co-Chair Debra Baker-Murph said. “This ribbon cutting marks more than just an opening of a little pocket park; it marks the beginning of new opportunities, growth, and connection in our community.”
On Oct. 31, 2024, the Village of Byron DDA took on an opportunity to raise $50,000 in 60 days to transform the unused space between the ‘Byron Municipal Building’ and ‘The Dam Salon’ into a “green retreat.” If the goal were met, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) would match every dollar that was raised.
Organizers used the online crowdfunding platform “Patronicity” to collect the donations, saying on the page, “Imagine a vibrant oasis in the heart of The Village of Byron – a pocket park where families can escape the daily commute to enjoy nature, grab an ice cream, and listen to outdoor musicians.”
The Village of Byron DDA Co-Chair added that they met the goal with just 10 days to spare.
“Our campaign grew wings and we were soaring with hope, hope that maybe, just maybe, we would reach our goal. But no matter what the final outcome was, we would still be ahead in the end and be able to refresh this space,” Baker-Murph said. “So, when I tell you that we met our goal with ten days left, we were in awe, in shock, and absolutely humbled and grateful.”
According to the initiative’s online funding page, $56,575 was raised, with MEDC’s matching dollar amount, the final total was $113,150.
“This park would not have been possible without the donations from generous individuals and organizations,” Village President Vicki Stevens said.
A handful of local companies were thanked for their efforts in constructing and designing the pocket park. This included Royalty Services for landscaping and work on the pavilions, Kevin and Rita Hooley of Flamingo Kid Signs for designing and painting the mural, and Hulett Concrete for working on the sidewalks.
“Your support not only turned an idea into reality, but it made something that we can all be proud of. So, thank you for sharing this milestone with all of us. And so, let’s celebrate the start of something truly special by cutting this ribbon and welcoming Byron’s newest little gem into our village, a park that belongs to all of us,” Baker-Murph added.
View the full ribbon-cutting ceremony below:
