State Rep. Ron Robinson today joined local veterans and community leaders to celebrate the completion of much-needed parking lot improvements at American Legion Post 351 in Utica, a project Robinson helped secure state funding for through the state budget process.

The funding allowed the post to repave its badly deteriorated parking lot, addressing safety concerns for the veterans, volunteers, families and community members who regularly use the facility.

“This is exactly the kind of project I fight for because it directly benefits the people I represent,” said Robinson (R-Utica). “American Legion Post 351 is much more than a meeting place for veterans. It is a gathering place for our entire community. When I learned how badly the parking lot had deteriorated, I made it a priority to secure the funding needed to get it fixed. Now the veterans and community groups who rely on this facility have a safer, more welcoming place to gather.”

Located along the Utica-Shelby Township border, Post 351 serves veterans and their families from throughout the surrounding area. The facility also provides meeting and gathering space for numerous local nonprofit and community organizations, including Scouts of America troops, the Utica Lions, Michigan Parkinson Foundation, Marine Corps League, veteran suicide prevention organization 92 for 22, Wreck-it Like Beckett childhood cancer support, the Roberts Elementary Robotics Team and others. The Shelby Township Police Department also uses the facility for K-9 training.

“Investing in a place that serves our veterans while supporting so many other organizations is money well spent,” Robinson said. “I’m proud I was able to deliver this funding for Post 351 and help preserve an important community resource right here in Macomb County.”