Residents and visitors in Cicero will soon be able to enjoy the Morse Reservoir in a new way, thanks to a crowdfunding campaign for an accessible canoe and kayak launch. The campaign, sponsored by the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) and offered through the crowdfunding platform developed by Patronicity, is managed by the Town of Cicero.
“This project will ensure that Morse Reservoir is fully accessible to all that wish to enjoy it,” said Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch. “With a successful campaign, the Town of Cicero can install a new kayak and canoe launch which will bring more visitors to Red Bridge Park.”
If the campaign reaches its $7,500 goal by Dec. 8, Cicero Accessible Canoe and Kayak Launch project will receive a matching grant of $7,500 from IHCDA’s CreatINg Places program.
Click here for project details and to donate.
The funding raised during this campaign will allow the Town of Cicero to replace the current boat dock with an accessible canoe and kayak launch, build a walkway that connects the launch to a park trail, install lighting and signage and expand the nearby parking lot. This will be the first accessible launch on Morse Reservoir, giving people of all abilities the opportunity to be active outside and enjoy the water.
“The Accessible Kayak and Canoe Launch at Red Bridge Park will create an additional way for visitors and community members to enjoy Morse Reservoir while at the same time activating an area of the park that has been underutilized for many years,” stated Cicero Parks Department Superintendent, Charlie Cambre. “We appreciate the collaborative efforts by IHCDA and Patronicity in creating this unique grant opportunity and we know that our community and business members will be supportive of our efforts and help us reach our $7,500.00 fundraising goal.”
Since the CreatINg Places program began last fall, projects have raised in excess of $860,000 in public funds and an additional $600,000 in matching IHCDA funds.
The CreatINg Places program is available to projects located in Indiana communities. Non-profit entities (with 501c3 or 501c4 status) and Local Units of Government are eligible to apply.
Eligible projects must have a minimum total development cost of $10,000, where the recipient will receive $5,000 in IHCDA matching funds should they successfully raise $5,000 through Patronicity. IHCDA will provide matching grant funds up to $50,000 per project.
IHCDA, chaired by Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch, provides housing opportunities, promotes self-sufficiency and strengthens communities in order to build an Indiana with a sustainable quality of life for all Hoosiers in the community of their choice. For more information, visit ihcda.in.gov or in.gov/myihcda.