“Over the last five of six years, the department of parks and recreation has been working hard to acquire additional park land across the city’s park system to ensure that all residents have easy access to a park, and for us, we define that as a 10-minute walk.”
Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation Director David Marquardt joined city leaders in breaking ground on the new Plaza Roosevelt park project. The $2.3 million park is part of the neighborhood’s redevelopment project since its inception over six years ago, guided by resident feedback.
“A lot of what we heard was a desire to incorporate as many, if possible, of the elements of the old church that was within the neighborhood, representing some of the workers from the neighborhood.”
To that end, some of the park’s sculptural art will feature one of the old church steeples. Other features include a hammock grove, rentable shelters, play area for all ages and abilities, bike paths and vendor spaces.
Marquardt says funding for the project comes from multiple sources, including a Michigan Enhancement Grant and a city millage.
“So, voters in Grand Rapids are to be thanked for their continued commitment to the City of Grand Rapids through their dedicated parks funding through their property tax.”
The park is expected to open by the end of the year.
