Kettering University and the Ruth Mott Foundation have partnered to create “Grand Traverse Circle” on the southeast corner of Grand Traverse and University Avenues in Flint, Michigan.

The 0.41 acre park consists of a brick walkway connecting to Grand Traverse Avenue to the west and University Avenue to the north. Grand Traverse Circle carries the casual open green space theme of the University Square park on the north side of University Avenue to create continuity in design and structure on the corridor.

Grand Blanc-based Doan’s Landscape was responsible for the plans and construction at the site. Kettering took ownership of the property in 2014.

“This project is part of our larger ongoing commitment to create vibrant green spaces and to lay the groundwork for economic development in the University Avenue Corridor,” said Jack Stock, director of External Relations at Kettering and a member of the University Avenue Corridor Coalition. “Thanks to the support of the Ruth Mott Foundation, we are adding another well-maintained green space to the University Avenue Corridor that supports community health and wellness and offers another gathering space for outdoor activities.”

Another University Avenue Corridor Coalition (UACC) member, Carriage Town Ministries, has agreed to maintain the park, which complements Carriage Town’s University Square project which was completed in 2013.

Kettering and community partners within the University Avenue Corridor Coalition (UACC) are deploying the Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) methodology outlined in the Imagine Flint Master Plan at Grand Traverse Circle. These methods are intended to enhance aesthetics, reduce blight, improve safety, and link Kettering University to surrounding hubs of activity, such as Kettering University’s Atwood Stadium, Hurley Medical Center and downtown Flint to establish an inviting and welcoming environment for the community.

Grand Traverse Circle is Kettering’s latest project on the corridor. In August 2015, Kettering, with support from the C.S. Mott Foundation and many community supporters, led the grand re-opening of Kettering University’s Atwood Stadium which marked the return of athletics and community events to the historic venue. Kettering also recently announced that a Jimmy John’s sandwich shop is expected to open on the northwest corner of the University and Grand Traverse Avenues intersection.