Parks & Recreation Master Plan

Parks and recreation master planning provides a future road map for city parks and new recreation efforts. The planning process provides a foundation for understanding and responding to the parks & recreation needs of residents and visitors. The Parks & Recreation Department is examining existing community services, facilities, and resources. The plan will outline action items that will upgrade city parks to operational standards and provide a vision of future needs and opportunities. Planning for parks and recreation assists in promoting active lifestyles, building healthy communities, and attracting economic development. Master plans are also necessary for the qualification of state and federal grants.

In 2022, the City of Muskegon contracted with MCSA Group, Inc (Landscape and Architect Firm) to complete a Parks & Recreation Master Plan. This plan includes an assessment of City properties and assets. The 2022 plan helped the City obtain needed grant funds, but City leadership acknowledged that an update with additional community engagement was needed.

Since the completion of the 2022 plan, the City Commission approved the addition of hiring a Parks & Recreation Director. This person is charged with reviving the Parks & Recreation Department that was eliminated in 2009, formerly known as Leisure Services. Since February 2023, the Parks & Recreation Team has been actively preparing to engage with the community and launch the Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee.

From August to early 2024, City staff will be putting boots on the ground to actively engage area residents. The public engagement campaign will include presence at large community events, parks & recreation events, partnering with local schools and non-profit organizations, and increasing marketing efforts both around town and online. The results from the community engagement survey will be used alongside the equity index (see supporting documents section), and national parks standards to present a roadmap to bring our parks up to a higher standard and begin to outline future additions.

Learn more about the Parks & Recreation Master Plan process by continuing to explore this page, or connect with the Parks & Recreation Department at one of the many upcoming events!