Politics

Grand Rapids Opens Consultation for 2027-2032 Parks and Recreation Strategic Master Plan

Residents can take part in shaping parks, trails and public spaces through remaining in-person events and river project updates before construction begins this summer.

By Grand Rapids Policy Desk · Published July 24, 2026

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The City of Grand Rapids is conducting community consultation for its 2027-2032 Parks and Recreation Strategic Master Plan. The process invites residents to provide input on parks, trails and public spaces through an online survey and scheduled in-person events.

The online community survey closed on July 6, 2026. In-person sessions continue at Briggs Park Pool on July 16 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and at Lincoln Park on July 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. These sessions allow direct feedback on future park planning before the master plan period begins in 2027.

Timeline for local impact

Residents will see construction activity from the Lower Reach River Project starting in summer 2026. Public engagement for this project is available through the EngageGR platform. The Grand River Restoration entered the river on July 1, 2026, beginning dam removal work that returns rapids to the waterway after earlier community consultation.

These projects connect directly to daily use of riverfront areas and nearby parks. Residents who visit Briggs Park Pool or Lincoln Park this month can discuss how trail connections and recreation facilities may change once the 2027 plan takes effect.

Next steps for participation

The city has not announced an extension for the online survey as of July 15. Remaining in-person events provide the final scheduled opportunities for input before summer construction activity starts. Residents seeking updates on the Lower Reach River Project can use EngageGR for ongoing information as work proceeds through the season.

Information on both the master plan consultation and river projects is posted on the City of Grand Rapids website. Participation at the listed venues allows residents to address specific locations they use for recreation before the next planning cycle begins.

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