Hudson– Burton D. Morgan Foundation has awarded a grant of $65,900 to Portage Park District Foundation for the continued development of the 504-acre Morgan Park in Shalersville Township.
At one time, the Foundation’s founder, Burt Morgan, purchased the land with the intent to develop an international airport. The land remained undeveloped and went to Burt Morgan’s estate upon his passing in 2003. Western Reserve Land Conservancy negotiated purchase of the land in 2009, and in 2010 it was bought by the Portage Park District with grants from Burton D. Morgan Foundation, Peg’s Foundation, and state grants designated for environmental protection.
The park did not open until 2016, when levy funds enabled some initial improvements, such as a paved parking lot, information kiosk, and two trails.
Through this grant, the Meadow Loop Trail at Morgan Park will be made handicap accessible. Additionally, signage and small butterfly gardens will be installed. The Park District also plans to install a restroom at Morgan Park in 2018 and benches along the trail.
Foundation President and CEO Deborah Hoover commented, “In recognition of Mr. Morgan’s strong affinity for Portage County, Morgan Foundation is thrilled to be able to make this additional commitment to Morgan Park, and particularly to enhance access so that more visitors can enjoy the scenic Meadow Loop Trail. We hope lots of enthusiastic visitors of all ages will be able to experience Morgan Park in the years to come and we thank Portage Park District for making this dream a reality.”
“We’re honored to have the continued support of the Burton D. Morgan Foundation to improve access for all to enjoy this beautiful landscape and learn about our local ecosystems,” stated Portage Park District Executive Director Christine Craycroft. “For a small park district these kinds of public-private partnerships are especially critical; we greatly appreciate Mr. Morgan’s legacy and the Foundation’s excellent staff for bringing it to fruition.”
