On August 19, Dana Inc. announced it has donated $1 million to support the construction and maintenance of Glass City Metropark and Riverwalk, as well as a new sustainabilityfocused lecture series and an ongoing Maumee River cleanup program.
Glass City Metropark’s second phase, currently under construction in east Toledo, is a significant portion of the $200 million Glass City Riverwalk, a 300-acre greenway on the east and downtown sides of the Maumee River from the Anthony Wayne Bridge to the Veterans Glass City Skyway. When complete, the space will connect six neighborhoods along both sides of the river.
A property tax levy approved by Lucas County voters last November will partially fund the development, with the balance coming from grants and ongoing fund-raising efforts.
Glass City Riverwalk is expected to become one of the region’s most popular destinations, with year-round outdoor recreation opportunities, including adventure play areas and an ice skating ribbon.
The series of projects also will enhance environmental quality through the beneficial reuse of brownfields and upgrades to the shoreline, which will improve the water quality of the Maumee River and Lake Erie.
“Glass City Metropark and Riverwalk is an important project that leverages one of the greatest natural assets of the Toledo community–the Maumee River–to offer unique greenspaces for residents and visitors,” said Doug Liedberg, Dana senior vice president and chief sustainability officer.
“This investment in Metroparks is an extension of our company’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, and will help enrich the lives of people in the Toledo community for years to come.”
Funding also will go toward a “Sustaining Our World” lecture series that will feature four speakers each year covering sustainability and social responsibility topics.
In addition, Dana will enlist the help of volunteers to conduct community cleanup days along the shores of the Maumee River.
“Dana’s gift says a lot about the company, this project and our community,” said Dave Zenk, Metroparks executive director. “The many ways Metroparks serve our region are built upon a foundation of conservation. Nowhere is that more obvious than at the six Metroparks along the Maumee River that help protect our magnificent river and Lake Erie. The unprecedented public and corporate support for Riverwalk demonstrates our community’s commitment to a healthy, sustainable future.”
