Ann Arbor Bicentennial Coordinating Committee - Message from the City Administrator

Happy summer!

As we advance toward our planned yearlong celebration of the City’s bicentennial in 2024, we are excited to provide this summer touch-point message.

The Coordinating Committee is still accepting information about events and activities that are being planned to commemorate the bicentennial. An online events calendar is being hosted by Destination Ann Arbor. If your group wants to promote what you are planning for 2024, please send your information to [email protected].

Regardless of the month of your event, if it’s open to the public, we will add it to the calendar. The Committee plans to highlight a few items each month to really push attendance. We are also looking for annual events that are willing to be co-branded with the bicentennial for next year only.

We have received a wonderful offer from the Commission on Disability Issues (CODI). If you need input to ensure the event you’re planning is accessible, they are willing to assist you. One of our overarching goals for the bicentennial is to make it as inclusive as possible.

Bicentennial Merchandise, Anyone?

The Committee is planning to offer an apparel line, along with other select items, to highlight the occasion. Starting this fall, and throughout next year, you will be able to obtain memorabilia through Underground Printing as well as through the bicentennial website, https://a2bicentennial.org/.

Legacy Projects Need Support!

James L. Crawford (African-American) Elks Lodge members of the philanthropic community, private sector or supportive individuals will be able to financially support the restoration of a significant piece of the Ann Arbor community. The Lodge provides several elements where public support will enable a facelift to the community. The Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation will be hosting the fund to support this project.

Ann Arbor Bicentennial Park (Southeast Area Park) — Ann Arbor City Council passed a resolution in May 2023 to designate this park space in honor of the 2024 celebration. The City has already received a $1 million commitment from the State for the development of a splash pad at the site. For the vision of the overall park to be realized, with the placement of other new amenities, public support will be critical.

More details on how to support both legacy projects will be forthcoming. Stay tuned for our next update!

Sincerely,

Milton Dohoney Jr.

City Administrator

Bicentennial Coordinating Committee Co-Chair