Bridgman Raises Funds for New 'Salute the Troops' Playground

Community seeks to honor military service through commemorative brick sales.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 11:00pm

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a military-themed playground rocket ship, repeated in a tight grid pattern in the style of Andy Warhol, conceptually representing the community's efforts to create a fun, engaging space that pays tribute to those who have served.A commemorative playground honoring military service brings vibrant, playful energy to the Bridgman community.Bridgman Today

The Greater Bridgman Area Chamber of Commerce and Growth Alliance is raising funds for a new 'Salute the Troops' playground, which will feature military-themed equipment and a memorial garden. The community has already raised $180,000 towards the $450,000 goal, with plans to begin construction in spring 2027.

Why it matters

The new playground aims to provide a safe, fun space for local children while also honoring the service of military members from the Bridgman community. The fundraising efforts demonstrate the town's commitment to supporting veterans and creating a space that brings the community together.

The details

The playground will include a large Navy ship, rock climbing wall, swings, benches, uniform panels for kids to take photos, a rocket ship, and either a tank or jeep. Residents and businesses can purchase commemorative 4x8 bricks for $250 or 12x12 bricks for $500 to be used in the memorial garden.

  • Fundraising for the playground began last year.
  • The community has raised $180,000 to date towards the $450,000 goal.
  • Construction on the Salute the Troops Playground is planned to begin in spring 2027.

The players

Greater Bridgman Area Chamber of Commerce and Growth Alliance

The local organization leading the fundraising efforts and planning for the new Salute the Troops Playground.

Cheri Heward

The Bridgman CGA Board Chair, who provided details on the playground's features and fundraising progress.

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What they’re saying

“We've gotten quite a few grants and we have raised, I believe, about $180,000 to date.”

— Cheri Heward, Bridgman CGA Board Chair

“We have a large Navy ship. We have a rock climbing wall, some swings. We have some benches. We have uniform panels where a child can stand and get their picture and it looks like they're wearing a military uniform, honoring all six branches of the military. We're going to have a large rocket ship and either a tank or a jeep.”

— Cheri Heward, Bridgman CGA Board Chair

What’s next

Construction on the Salute the Troops Playground is planned to begin in spring 2027.

The takeaway

The Bridgman community's commitment to honoring military service and providing a safe, engaging space for local children is demonstrated through the fundraising efforts and planned features of the new Salute the Troops Playground.