The Cook Plant Foundation has awarded a $50,000 grant to the Salute the Troops Playground project in Bridgman.

Bridgman CGA Board Chair Cheri Heward tells us the project is seeking to build a new playground on the American Legion property in town.

“The Legion deeded the parcel of property that we’re turning into this park back to the city of Bridgman,” Heward said. “So it is run by the parks department, but all that’s there right now is a tire swing. And we want to make it much more than a tire swing and have it actually represent our Legion and represent our troops and all six branches of service.”

The playground will feature equipment kids can climb on, play on, and swing on. And it’ll be designed to salute the troops, with an Army jeep, a rocket, and a boat representing the Navy.

“Phase one is the big pieces. Phase two will be tiny tots for younger children. And we’ll also have a memorial garden for the vets and our local vets and anybody that wants to memorialize one of their veterans that’s in their family.”

Heward says the overall fundraising goal to begin construction of the playground is $250,000. They’ve already raised more than $100,000.

The Cook Plant Foundation will make a formal check presentation to the city on Saturday at a 1940s Stars and Stripes event at the American Legion Hall at 6 p.m. The celebration, open to the public, will feature a big band, dancing, food, and a silent auction. All proceeds will go to the playground project.