Grand Rapids Reporter

The Grand Rapids City Council Commission recently adopted a five-year parks strategic master plan update during last week’s city council meeting.

Mayor Rosalynn Bliss said that objective is capitalize on community momentum and investments for a more equitable, healthy and sustainable park system

“Our city is filled with amazing parks that not only offer a place to exercise and be active, but they also are a great source of peace, tranquility and beauty to everyone who visits them,” Bliss said. “I am so thankful that this park’s master plan provides a blueprint for continuous improvement of these spaces. Grand Rapids’ quality of life is second to none and this plan ensures that we will continue to benefit and enjoy our great parks for years to come.”

The commission unanimously approved a five-year parks and recreation strategic master plan update for the city that it set to have a timeline from 2022 through 2026, according to a news release.

The city needed the plan in order to receive Michigan Department of Natural Resources grant funding, according to a news release.

The city reported that the plan enhances the proposals of the 2017 plan, which called for a new department objective, vision and values, along with weaving elements of the city’s 2019 strategic plan, the critical role of parks and recreation in response to COVID-19 and reflections following the evergreen parks millage passed by voters in 2019.

According to the city, the master plan involves an equity-centered capital investment plan for the next five years.

“Major goals are: creating a connected network of parks, trails and natural areas; recreation programs and amenities that support the physical, mental and emotional needs of residents; a park operations plan focused on innovation, sustainability and collaboration and investments to neighborhood parks focused on accessibility and asset management,” according to the city.