My City July 2021

MYDOWNTOWN

Scheitler says they are seeing more and more kayakers every year. “It’s a growing population. People are enjoying the beauty of the river. It is a beautiful resource that not enough people know about.” Both Scheitler and Welch are excited to report that the Flint River Watershed Coalition and Kayak Flint are getting a new home right in the heart of the city.Thanks to a grant from the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, the former 1st Source Servall Appliance Parts building at 630 W. Kearsley Street is being renovated and adjacent properties will be redeveloped.The property is bordered by the Flint River, Swartz Creek and Kearsley Street. When the revitalization project is complete, residents will have access to a kayak

launch, fishing spots and lookout points. “We will be moving to the new property within the next year!” Scheitler exclaims. The best thing about Kayak Flint,Welch shares, is the overall experience it provides. “From the river, you might see a Flint City Bucks game being played at Atwood Stadium,” she says. “It’s never just a kayak trip. You get to see the city and you never know what else you’re going to get. It’s amazing! I love it! You get the whole Flint experience.” Avid kayakers themselves, both Welch and Scheitler love their jobs. “We’ve had a blast during this project,” Scheitler admits. “Watching people go to the river for the first time and seeing their reactions – it’s been a true joy!” For more information, visit kayakflint.org. x

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