Michigan lawmakers give Ann Arbor $1M for a splash pad

Michigan lawmakers granted $1 million to Ann Arbor in the 2024 budget for a recreational splash pad. The money is part of a $1.8 billion spending spree the state classifies as local earmarks or grants.

Lansing leaders have posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, claims that their policies are helping residents.  “We’re investing in good-paying jobs and putting more money in people’s pockets,” posted Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in May.

Though there is no evidence that these policies have reduced costs or put more money in people’s pockets.

In 2023, lawmakers spent down a $9 billion surplus, leaving only $250 million behind. They gave Ann Arbor $7.3 million in earmarks.

Lisa Wondrash, spokeswoman for the city of Ann Arbor, told Michigan Capitol Confidential that the $1 million grant will be used to build a splash pad at the city’s Bicentennial Park.