HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity of lansing Five Year Parks and Recreation Plan CITY OF LANSING
PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
Virg Bernero, Mayor
Brett Kaschinske, Director
FIVE YEAR RECREATION PLAN
2015-2020
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Submitted March 1, 2015
Prepared by City of Lansing Staff
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Virg Bemaro,Mayor
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Acknowledgments 3
Executive Summary 4
Community Description 12
Administrative Structure 17
Recreation Inventory 26
Planning Process 59
Public Input 61
Goals and Objectives 67
Action Plan 70
Appendix 74
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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The City of Lansing's Parks and Recreation Master Plan, 2015-2020, was a cooperative effort by the City of
Lansing, the Lansing Parks and Recreation Department, Park Board Members and the citizens of Lansing.
CITY OF LANSING
Virg Bernero, Mayor
City Council Derrick Quinney, President, At Large
Tina Houghton, Vice President, Ward 2
A'Lynne Boles, Ward 3
Judi Brown Clarke, At Large
Kathie Dunbar, At Large
Jody Washington, Ward 1
Carol Wood, At Large
Jessica Yorko, Ward 4
Parks and Recreation Department Brett Kaschinske, Director of Parks and Recreation
Emily Stevens, Leisure & Special Services Manager
Park Board Rick Kibbey, President, Ward 2
Adam Hussain, Vice President, Ward 3
Rita O'Brien, Ward 1
Paul Holland, At Large
Veronica Gracia-Wing, At Large
Clayton "Gib" King, At Large
*Ward 4—currently vacant
Planning Board John P. Ruge, Ward 1
Beth Graham, Ward 2
Kathy Tobe, Ward 3
Josh Hovey, At Large
Tony Cox, At Large
Alisande Henry, At Large
Colin Maguire, At Large
*Ward 4—currently vacant
Planning Department Bob Johnson, Director
Public Service Department Chad Gamble, Director/City Chief Operating Officer
Marty Riel, Property Manager
Andy Kilpatrick, Traffic Engineer
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Mission Statement
The mission of the Lansing Parks and Recreation Department is to enhance the quality of life through the
preservation and maintenance of park lands, the provision of quality leisure time activities and the provision
of special facilities which would otherwise not be available to Lansing residents.
Introduction
The 2015-2020 Parks and Recreation Master Plan was developed as a guide for the City as they work to fulfill
the Department's mission over the next 5 years. The plan will not only provide guidance, but is necessary to be
eligible for grant funding through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The format of this plan has
been established by the State of Michigan, Department of Natural Resources, Grants Management Section.
The plan was formulated based on information gathered, analyzed and compiled from the following sources:
1. Input from the citizens of Lansing through:
o A community survey
o Six (6) public meetings in conjunction with monthly Park Board meetings
o Public Meetings
o Park Board — Draft Review
o Public Hearings `; I
o Park Board
o City Council
o Date gathered from various Parks
Department surveys
2. Collaboration with other City planning efforts
including:
o The City-Wide Master Plan
o The Non-Motorized Transportation Plan W ,
3. Evaluation of:
o Demographics
o Natural features '
o Parks and Recreation trends
4. Data compiled from previous Recreation
Plans and City Policies
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Accomplishments 2010-2015
Park Millage `
Over the past five years, the department has been able to -
accomplish programmatic and capital improvement goals from
the 2010-2015 recreation plan largely due to the successful �-
renewal of the Lansing Park Millage. A new one mil, five year
millage was passed in August of 2010 with a 73%voter
approval. If authorized to appear on the August 2015 ballot,
the department can seek another renewal of one mil for five
years. The department has been successful in using millage r
funds as a match for State grant funding. The following is a
partial list of the projects that have been funded with millageand grant funding from 2010 to 2015.
Kids Camps: Each year, using park millage funds, the Parks Department sponsors a summer kids camp.
Maguire Park Playground and Park: Playground equipment and a picnic shelter were installed at the park,
enhancing the southernmost trailhead of the River Trail.
Tennis Court Reconstruction at Georgetown and Elmhurst: Each park location has two tennis courts. All four
courts were reconstructed.
Mount Hope Cemetery Basin — Phase III: The project involved the installation of the first section of the
columbarium, decorative fountain and pool, landscaping, irrigation and benches.
Jones Lake Park: With the help of donations from Emergent Biosolutions, a grill, several picnic tables, and
playground safety surfacing were installed at the park.
Kircher Ballfield Lighting: As one of the final phases to the ongoing improvements at Kircher Ballfield, the
field lighting was replaced. By using current ballfield lighting products, the city was able to reduce the number
of lights and poles while still providing increased and better lighting
River Trail Quarter Mile Markers: River Trail markers were replaced with new, recycled plastic, green 4" x 4"
posts, standing 2 % feet tall.
Burchard Park Silo Demolition: The old and structurally unsafe silos at Burchard Park were removed.
Mount Hope Cemetery Basin — Phase IV: A paved walkway was constructed from the upper level to the lower
basin level and from there connect all the elements which were part of Phase III.
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Moores Park Swimming Pool: In 2013, the city partnered with the Lansing Board of Water and Light to repair
the pumps at the Moores Park swimming pool.
River Trail Wall Repair and Bank Stabilization: Approximately 80 feet of gabion basket retaining wall had to
be removed and replaced with a steel sheet piling wall along the trail behind General Motors near the Elm
Street entrance. Where the River Trail runs north of Trager Park, bank stabilization measures had to be
constructed to repair the bank after heavy rains damaged it.
Cherry Hill and Riverfront Parks: Floating docks were installed at each of the parks.
New ShowMobile: The city purchased a new ShowMobile mobile stage for special events. The new stage has
many new features including an ADA accessible lift, generator and hydraulic leveling.
Scott Woods Bridge: The city contracted to have the bridge over the Sycamore Creek in Scott Woods repaired
allowing River Trail access to users who park at Scott Woods.
Saginaw Street Bridge/River Trail Improvements: Repairs to the Saginaw Street bridge allowed for
improvements to the River Trail by raising the level of the trail to help eliminate future flooding issues and
allow trail users additional clearance under the bridge. This project also allowed for the extension of the
pathway on the west side of the river to connect from Michigan Ave to Oakland Ave.
Crego Park: Following over 25 years of being closed to the public, re-Opened Crego Park with the Michigan
Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund Grant. New features include an ADA accessible canoe/kayak
launch on a 15 acre lake, fishing platforms, and a connection to the Lansing River Trail.
City Wide Facility Improvements: Recipient of CDBG
¢ funding to install new and unique playground equipment at
} Gier Ball Fields, Letts Center, Davis Park and Baker Donora.
These funds were also used to install an accessible
—.-- canoe/kayak launch at Cherry Hill Park. Installed LED
lighting at Gier Center and sound panels in the Letts Center
t gymnasium. Total investment over$260,000. Non CDBG
- - funded improvements include new park entry signs were
installed at Grand River, Crego and Kaynorth. Additionally,
landscape improvements were completed at the following
tro locations: Letts Center, RE Olds Monument at Kalamazoo
Plaza and Burchard Park.
Turner Dodge: Renovations included water damage repair, exterior painting and masonry work. Total
investment was just under $200,000
Burchard Park: Replaced decking on the fishing dock and demolished the deteriorating restrooms.
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
St. Joe Park: Installed Rugby Field that will be shared with Mid -Michigan Youth Football and the Capital Area
Crisis Rugby Football Club. Greater Lansing Sports Authority provided the grant to fund the purchase of the
goal posts.
Moores Park: Completed landscape improvements along with a new walkway by the dam. A new concrete
retaining wall was installed by the River Trail bridge, in Moores Park, to prevent shore failure.
Projects completed by volunteer groups and local donors
The Friends of Lansing River Trail group was established as a 501c3 group. The group received contributions
totaling over $5,000 at their first fundraiser event. There are over 350 friends to date.
Neogen, a local Lansing business and a neighbor to the east of Oak Park, donated the funds to construct a
paved walking path in the park. They also have taken over the cost of maintaining the park.
The city received a cash donation and in-kind labor to repair the tennis court backboards at the Letts
Community Center tennis courts.
The Friends of Greater Lansing Cemeteries raised funds to fix several monuments in Mt. Hope Cemetery. The
group also participated in a cleanup effort at North Cemetery.
The Westside Neighborhood donated 2 grills for Letts Community Center.
The Friends of Dunnebacke Park installed a community garden, re-painted the pavilion and led several
neighborhood events at the park.
The city teamed with 120 student and staff volunteers from New Covenant Christian School for a cleanup day
at Mt. Hope Cemetery. Participants removed brush, raked leaves, and installed flower beds.
Michigan Department of Corrections inmates removed brush along the River Trail and at Grand River Park to
help with sight lines and safety concerns in those areas.
Capital Region Community Foundation grant in the amount of$6,450 to purchase a tool trailer and tools for
volunteer groups to use.
Basketball court repairs were made at a variety of parks by South Church of the Nazarene. This group also
raised funds for the purchase of the supplies.
Burchard, Elm, St Joe, Elmhurst, and Ferris Parks received playground boarders by Michigan Department of
Transportation's Youth Development Mentoring Program.
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
General Motors supplied money and staff for a field makeover with the Lansing Lugnuts at Quentin Park. Both
fields received upgrades for the beginning of the youth baseball season.
New Covenant Christian Students planted roses, installed playground wood chips, and pulled weeds at Frances
Park.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints painted the pedestrian bridge at Riverfront, weeded the
landscape at Durant and installed playground safety surfacing at Graves, Baker Donora, Georgetown and
Risdale Parks
Michigan State Police Human Resources Department installed landscaping in Riverfront Park at the Saginaw St.
Bridge, installed playground surfacing at the City Market and Burchard Park. They also purchased 5 gallons of
paint for the Riverfront Park pedestrian bridge.
Land Acquisitions
Hunter's Ridge—With the help of a Department of Natural Resources Land Acquisition grant, the City was able
to purchase the Hunter's Ridge property. The City plans to develop a network of nature trails and bike trails
throughout the Hunter's Ridge area, and through the adjacent Fine Park.
Regionalization
In 2006, the Potter Park Zoo millage was passed, providing funding from Ingham County residents. In July
2007, the Zoo officially became an Ingham County run facility. Although the ownership of the Zoo remains
with the city of Lansing, passage of a county-wide zoo millage put both the funding and management of the
zoo under the County. The City and the County are also collaborating to share the maintenance of the River
Trail. Currently, the County maintains the portions of the trail in and around Potter Park Zoo as well as the
River Trail South segment from the zoo to Maguire Park.
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Goals and Objectives
GOAL OBJECTIVE
Goal 1: Objective A:
Naturalization and Ecology Identify potential natural areas in parks by creating no mow zones in areas that are
Management currently not used for active recreation
Objective B:
Partner with Michigan State University and Fenner Nature Center to protect against
invasive species that may currently exist within the parks
Objective C.
Identify current natural areas throughout the city for acquisition
Objective D:
Identify and maintain natural areas for wildlife
Objective E:
Minimize impervious area on new projects
Objective F:
Remove existing paved or otherwise impervious surfaces no longer being utilized
within the parks.
Goal 11: Objective A:
Tree planting and Replacement Protect the existing tree population through proper care and pruning
Objective B
Install new trees where space and activities provide
Objective C.
Replace damaged or dying trees in parks
Goal III: Objective A:
Access to the Rivers Install universally accessible canoe/kayak launch at Cherry Hill Park
Objective B:
Promote "blueways" similar to how trails and greenways are promoted
Objective C.
Identify erosion problems along the Grand River, Red Cedar River, and Sycamore
Creek. In particular, areas adjacent to the River Trail. Work with city staff to
determine necessary repairs
Objective D:
Goal III: Protect and restore riparian buffers along rivers and creeks
Access to the Rivers Objective E:
Establish plans,with the help of volunteers,to remove trees and brush from the
waterways
Objective F.
Plan special events that promote river related recreation activities
Objective G:
Provide access to the Baker Donora Center from the nearby River Trail
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Goal IV: Objective A:
Parks Foundation Establish 501c3 Friends of Lansing Parks group
Objective 8:
Apply for grants specifically offered to 501c3 groups
Objective C.
Advocate for Parks and Recreation Department programs
Objective D:
Organize fundraising events to raise money for Parks projects and services
Objective E:
Organize volunteer driven Parks projects
Goal V: Objective A:
Non-motorized trail use Update the Lansing River Trail map including new links to the South Lansing
Pathway and the Delhi Township trail
Objective 8:
Create off-road biking and hiking trails through Fine, Fulton, and Hunters Ridge
parks
Objective C.
Extend the River Trail to the north to connect to the Delta Township path; from
Moores Park to Riverside Park;from Frances Park to Grand River Park
Goal VI: Objective A:
Diversify and Expand Hold discussions with current park users to identify new recreational trends
Recreational Opportunities Objective 8:
Reach out to faith based organizations via the Mayor's Office of Faith Based
Initiatives
Objective C.
Work with local school districts to develop more athletic teams
Objective D:
Reach out to the refugee community, and other potential new users,to determine
recreational needs
Objective E:
Expand athletic fields, courts, and play surfaces to meet growing needs of youth
and adult recreation
Action 2015-2020
The Parks Department cares for parks by allocating funds to different scopes of work. The Department goes
through an annual budgeting process where funds are allocated to planning, neighborhood park renovations,
repair and maintenance, and capital improvement projects that are not grant eligible. For example, every year
funds are allocated for improvements and maintenance of five to six neighborhood playgrounds. These items
are not included in the Capital Improvement Schedule of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan because they
are typically repair/maintenance projects, are smaller projects that can be funded through the general fund or
park millage, or they are not eligible for MDNRE grant funds.
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Several Capital Improvement projects from the 2010-2015 Parks and Recreation Master Plan were not
completed in the last five years. These items are being moved forward into this Plan or proceeding through
other organizations. Those items include:
o River Trail — Extend River Trail from Moores River Drive to Riverside and Grand River Parks.
o River Trail — Extend northern route to Delta Township.
o Location TBD— Develop an outdoor basketball facility.
o City wide — Maintenance and sustainability of neighborhood parks.
Capital Improvement Schedule
Proiect Match Potential Grant Funds Proiect Total
River Trail - Extend Northern Route to Delta $1,500,000 $500,000 $2,000,000
Township
River Trail—Moores River Dr. to Riverside Park to $452,500 $1,357,500 $1,810,000
Grand River Park
TBD - Develop an Outdoor Basketball Facility $25,000 $25,000 $50,000
Maintenance and Sustainability of Neighborhood $250,000
Parks
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COMMUNITY DESCRIPTION
Political Boundaries
Lansing is the capital city of Michigan, and is the sixth largest city in the state. It is located in Ingham County
and is bordered by the cities of East Lansing, Holt, DeWitt, and Delta Township. Lansing is an urban area with
small areas of undeveloped land which are mainly held by the City of Lansing, Lansing School District and the
Board of Water and Light. The city is divided into four political wards.
Land Use Patterns, Development Trends and Zoning
With the resurgence of the local and state economies, there have been several new developments in
downtown Lansing including redevelopment of the Lansing Board of Water and Light Ottawa Street Power
Station into offices for the Accident Fund World Headquarters, a new city market, conversion of the Prudden
Wheel Factory into lofts, the new Board of Water and Light Cogeneration Power Plant, and the construction of
the Stadium District mixed use building. A partnership between the City, the Lugnuts, and a local developer
was formed to break ground in November, 2014, on a new business/residential development project on the
north side of Cooley Law School Stadium, and a new apartment building adjacent to the city market just
completed construction in early 2015.
The Department of Planning and Neighborhood Development is responsible for building safety, code
compliance, economic incentive programs and administration of the zoning code, land use planning and the
City Master Plan. Working closely with elected officials, local developers, and local and state agencies, the
Planning Department has been successful in continuing to move Lansing forward.
Natural Features
Topography
There is generally very little change in elevation within the city, except for areas that lie on the Mason Glacial
Esker. The rivers and creek banks have gradually sloping banks that rise between 0 to 10 feet.
Water Resources, Fish and Wildlife
Lansing has abundant water resources. The Grand and Red Cedar Rivers, as well as Sycamore Creek, flow
through the city. The Grand River flows east into the city from the western boundary to the central region of
this city where it joins the Red Cedar River and from there it turns and flows north through the downtown.
Just beyond downtown, the Grand River turns and flows westward to exit the city. The Red Cedar River enters
the city on the eastern boundary at Michigan State University and flows westward until it joins the Grand
River. The Sycamore Creek flows from the south end of the city north and joins the Red Cedar River at Shubel
Park.
There are four lakes in the city. The department owns Fidelity Lake, located in the recently developed Crego
Park. It was a borrow pit created during the construction of Expressway 127. It has sufficient size and water
quality to support aquatic life and a fish population. There is public access to Jones Lake, a small lake in the
northern region of the city, which is also owned by the department. Ingham County operates Hawk Island
Park in the southern end of the city. This is another borrow pit that was converted to a small lake with public
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COMMUNITY DESCRIPTION
access for swimming, boating and fishing. The only other lake in the city is Bear Lake, which is owned by
Michigan State University and does not currently provide public access.
The floodplains and wetlands associated with the rivers and creeks provide many benefits to the city including
a pollution buffer for the waterways, storm recharge areas and wildlife habitat. Many of these areas are
associated with city-owned park land and consequentially are preserved from development.
The waterways, and the small and large land holdings, provide valuable habitat within an urban environment
that benefit fish and other wildlife. The contiguous green space created from the proximity of several park
areas in the city as well as the rivers provide key wildlife corridors in the city. There are two areas where the
combined park land creates large wildlife corridors. One area is over 705 acres and it includes Potter Park,
Shubel Park, Fenner Nature Center, Crego Park, Mt. Hope and Evergreen Cemetery, Scott Woods and Hawk
Island. The other area is over 128 acres and includes Bancroft Park, Groesbeck Golf Course, Ormond Park and
Fairview Park.
The abundant water resources provide fishing opportunities as well as wildlife habitat. Natural areas such as
the Fenner Nature Center, Crego Park, Shubel Park and Scott Woods provide habitat for wildlife from small
rodents to wild turkeys, fox, deer, cranes and other birds.
Soils and Vegetation
The majority of the soils in the city are disturbed urban soil, classified as Marlett-Capac soils. These soils are
associated with well drained to poorly drained loamy soils. There is also a large ratio of land within the
floodplain of the Grand and Red Cedar Rivers that is subject to periodic flooding and silting. Most of the land,
with the exception of Scott Woods, has been disturbed by development. The existing vegetation was primarily
planted through the years. The park lands contain a large amount of Oak, Ash and Maple trees in the drier
areas and Black Locust, Willow, Box Elder and Cottonwoods along the river banks.
Climate
The city experiences four-seasons, modulated by the effect of the Great Lakes. The climate is typical of most
Michigan cities in the Lower Peninsula.
Transportation
There are several different types of transportation routes in the city. There are surface roads, highways and
expressways that run through and around the city. Buses for public transportation are owned and operated by
the Capital Area Transportation Authority (CATA). The buses stop near many of the parks and community
centers. The Spec-Tran service offered by CATA provides paratransit service for people who are unable to use
CATA's fixed route service. There are also non-motorized transportation routes in the city including on-street
bike lanes, sidewalks and the River Trail. The River Trail system is the heart of the existing non-motorized trail
network. In the late fall of 2014, the River Trail South segment was extended by more than six miles,
beginning at Maguire Park and terminating at Waverly Road just south of Jolly Road. At the same time the
City completed the extension of the Frances Park Trail, from Mount Hope Road to Waverly Road. This trail
segment runs along the south side of the Grand River.
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COMMUNITY DESCRIPTION
Planning Initiatives
There are a few key planning initiatives underway in the City. Information is continually shared between the
various City departments and their consultants to allow for cohesion of information between the various
plans, and to encourage a shared vision for Lansing.
Lansing Comprehensive Plan
The Planning Board reviewed the Design Lansing Plan at public meetings on August 2, September 6, October 4,
and October 18, of 2012. After its public hearing on November 9, 2012, the Planning Board adopted the Plan.
It was then transmitted to the Mayor for City Council consideration and final adoption, and on April 9, 2012,
the Design Lansing Comprehensive Plan was adopted by City Council.
In this plan, Lansing has shown that it can unite around a new vision —the vision that is supported by the
Administration and adopted by the Planning Commission and City Council. That vision will not be realized,
however, without the continued support of Lansing's citizens. This community support is needed to ensure
that:
•The goals, objectives and policies of the plan are put into practice.
•Functional plans, (e.g. corridor improvement plans, streetscape plans, the Consolidated Plan, the Parks and
Recreation Plan, etc.) support the comprehensive plan.
•Regulatory realignment is implemented to reflect new realities and the new vision. Placemaking, quality and
community appearance are key elements of Lansing's future success.
•The plan is updated regularly, with a course correction every five years as required by law.
Non-Motorized Transportation Plan
The City Public Service Department, with assistance of trail planners and trail design consultants, is developing
a Non-Motorized Transportation Plan. The goal of the plan is to develop a framework for creating a
comprehensive network of sidewalks, trails, bike lanes, crosswalks and other non-motorized facilities in the
city of Lansing. The plan will include maps of existing and proposed routes, guidelines, policies, objectives,
strategies and actions for implementation of the plan. As part of this initiative, the City Council adopted the
Complete Streets Ordinance in August 2009. The ordinance states that the city will have a non-motorized
network plan, and will update it every 5 years. The ordinance sets a goal of 5% of infrastructure funding per
year for non-motorized facilities. The City will begin updating the Non-Motorized Transportation Plan in the
spring of 2015.
Adado River Front Park
The construction of the Market Place Development began, in 2009, on the east side of the river with the new
Lansing City Market. Future phases include an outdoor artificial skating rink and a mixed-use condominium
complex. The condominiums were completed in the late fall of 2014.
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COMMUNITY DESCRIPTION
Adado Park has hosted the Common Ground Music Festival for the last 10 years. The main stage is set up
across the river from the City Market. Each year the main stage is rented and it is one of the largest expenses.
The construction of a festival stage would greatly impact the festival's bottom line and provide facilities for
other events that take place in the park throughout the summer. The City is currently working on updating
the Adado Riverfront Park master plan, and is looking into grant opportunities to begin some of the
improvements.
Demographics
The Lansing region, in Michigan, offers a range of opportunity. Incubation and innovation, renowned research
capabilities with global connectivity, leading edge employers, incredible talent and abundant resources await
you. Located in south-central Michigan, and within a two-hour drive of 90% of the state's population, the
Greater Lansing area offers easy access to the Midwest and is one of the region's most affordable places to
work and live.
Historically a hub for industry, academia and government, Lansing has broadened its horizons and is now a
leader in a wide variety of categories including being a hub for insurance company national headquarters,
information technology and nuclear physics. The City of Lansing offers a diverse, well-educated and growing
population, plus ready access to one of the world's premier education resources in Michigan State University.
(Source: LEAP website)
Lansing is the largest population center in the tri-county area which includes Clinton, Eaton and Ingham
Counties. Lansing, in fact, has a larger population than Clinton or Eaton County. It is a diverse community with
most of the population in the working age range of 18 to 65, with the median age being 32. Skilled workers in
a variety of occupations live in the City with the top three industries being education services, health care and
social assistance, and manufacturing.
Most people work within 19 minutes of their home. The majority of people drove to work, but the passage of
the Complete Streets Ordinance in August 2009 by the Lansing City Council and the current development of
the Lansing Non-Motorized Transportation Plan show public and administrative support of providing
infrastructure for non-motorized transportation. The population of Lansing steadily declined over the past 20
years. The decline is greater in Lansing than in any of the tri-counties. The decrease was first caused by
emigration to the surrounding suburban areas and more recently due to poor economic conditions in Lansing
and the State of Michigan. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics as of September 2014, Lansing has a
5.3% unemployment rate compared to 6.7%for the state of Michigan.
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COMMUNITY DESCRIPTION
Below is a list of Lansing's top employers. The list is quite diverse, with representation from government,
manufacturing, health care, retail, and service providers.
stronger together
Largest Number of Employees by NAICS Code
Name of Company Number of Employees
STATE OF MICHIGAN 14,390
MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY 11,100
SPARROW HEALTH SYSTEM 7,000
GENERAL MOTORS 5,800
AUTO-OWNERS INSURANCE GROUP 3,700
LANSING COMMUNITY COLLEGE 3,144
LANSING SCHOOL DISTRICT 3,000
MCLAREN HEALTH 3,000
PECKHAM INC 2,510
MEIJER STORES 2,000
MEIJER DISTRIBUTION CTR 1,500
COMMUNITY HEALTH DEPT 1,400
DELTA CTR 1,398
JACKSON NATIONAL LIFE INS CO 1,300
DART CONTAINER CORP 1,200
DEMMER CORP 1,110
DEAN TRANSPORTATION INC 800
DELTA DENTAL 900
US POST OFFICE 750
QUALITY DAIRY 730
SPARTAN MOTORS CHASSIS INC 730
BOARD OF WATER&LIGHT 722
MICHIGAN EDUCATION ASSOC 515
MULTI PACKAGING SOL(JOHN HENRY) 600
LEAR CORP 550
SAM'S CLUB 55U
CITY OF EAST LANSING 548
ATTORNEY GENERAL 530
CONSUMERS ENERGY CO 500
PNC BANK 500
ACCIDENT FUND INSURANCE CO 445
SYMMETRY MEDICAL 430
EAST LANSING PUBLIC SCHOOLS 420
BURCHAM HILLS RETIREMENT CMNTY 400
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ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE
Administrative Structure
Executive Branch - Mayor
Article 4 of the City Charter establishes the executive branch of government. The Charter establishes the
Mayor as the chief executive officer of the City of Lansing. The Mayor is responsible for the implementation
and administration of city policy. The Mayor is elected every four years. The office is currently held by Mayor
Virg Bernero, who was reelected in November 2013 to serve from January 2014 to December 2017.
Legislative Branch - City Council
The City Council is comprised of eight members serving four year terms, whereby four members represent
individual political wards and four members are elected at large. Below is a list of each of the members:
1st Ward Jody Washington At large Kathie Dunbar
2nd Ward Tina Houghton At Large Judi Brown Clarke
3rd Ward A'Lynne Boles At Large Derrick Quinney
4t" Ward Jessica Yorko At Large Carol Wood
Advisory Board - Park Board
The department is assisted by a citizen based Park Board which serves the department in an advisory capacity.
Members of the Park Board are appointed to four year terms by the Mayor and approved by City Council as
provided for under Article 5, Chapter 1 of the City Charter. The Park Board meets the second Wednesday of
the month at various park facility locations. Current members of the park board are as follows:
1st Ward Rita O'Brien At Large Paul Holland
2nd Ward Rick Kibbey At Large Veronica Gracia Wing
3rd Ward Adam Hussain At Large Clayton "Gib" King
4t" Ward Vacant
Regular monthly meetings are held to review the progress and concerns of the department and to ensure that
all activities are in accordance with the accepted city policy. The board itself may propose changes in the
department's operations for the purpose of making the department or program more effective. Proposed
policies and programs, or change in existing policies or programs requiring Council action, must be submitted
by the Department Director to the Park Board prior to submission to the Mayor and Council for action. The
board in turn submits written recommendations concerning the proposal to the Mayor, along with the
department's proposal. When the Mayor submits the proposal to council for action, the board's
recommendations are also forwarded. This same procedure is followed with regard to budgetary matters.
Each year, prior to December 1st, the board is required to prepare a written report evaluating the
effectiveness of services and analyzing the status of priorities for services and activities of the department.
City of Lansing 17
Parks and Recreation Master Plan, 2015-2020 - DRAFT COPY JAN 14, 2015
ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE
Mission and Roles
PARKS & RECREATION
The Department of Parks and Recreation creates community through people, parks and programs. The mission
of the Parks and Recreation Department is to enhance lifestyle opportunities for the citizens of Lansing
through the provision of leisure time activities, and the preservation and maintenance of park lands and
special recreation facilities. The Department accomplishes this mission in the following ways:
• organization of youth, adult, and senior citizen recreational programming in parks, community centers,
schools, swimming pools, nature center, and historic home;
• regular maintenance of all parks and natural areas owned by the City of Lansing, including
maintenance of Lansing's urban forest areas through regular cycles of tree planting, fertilization, and
trimming;
• providing public golfing opportunities at Groesbeck Golf Course which support recreational and league
play in the area;
• providing burial services and cemetery maintenance at the City's three municipal cemeteries;
• supporting youth through the teaching of life-skills through The First Tee of Mid-Michigan program at
Sycamore Creek Golf Academy
• provision of special recreation facilities such as Ranney Skate Park, Soldan Dog Park, Gier Park BMX
Bicycle Track, Cooley Gardens, Frances Park Rose Garden and the Lansing River Trail linear park.
• sustaining working partnerships with the Lansing School District, Ingham County Parks and Recreation,
Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, Michigan
Department of Transportation, Lansing Community College, Capital Region Community Foundation,
Michigan State University and various community banking organizations.
The Department receives advisory support from the citizens of Lansing by encouraging their involvement in
the following citizen groups: City of Lansing Parks Board, Friends of Turner-Dodge, Fenner Conservancy, the
individual Community Center advisory boards and their youth advisory boards, the Baseball and Softball
advisory boards and over 38 neighborhood park "Friends" groups. The Department provides support in policy
decisions regarding recreational options and facilities to the Mayor and City Council.
Organization
The Parks and Recreation Department consists of four separate divisions:
• Administration
The Administration Division includes Management and Business Administration, Park Design, Planning and
Research, and the staff support for park and pavilion rentals, event planning, and support services for both
the General Fund and the Enterprise Fund programs. The Management and Business Administration
section is responsible for the salary, hourly, Temporary Employment Agreements, and seasonal payroll and
time cards. This section also processes procurement card reconciliations, accounts payable and receivable,
and processes paperwork for yearly employee evaluations and step increases.
City of Lansing 18
Parks and Recreation Master Plan, 2015-2020 - DRAFT COPY JAN 14, 2015
ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE
• Field Services
Funding for Field Services which includes; Forestry, Grounds and Landscape Maintenance, and Athletic
Field and Pool Maintenance, is located in this part of the budget. Staffing for these activities now resides in
the Public Service Department. Below is a description of these services.
The Forestry Section of the Field Services Division is responsible for maintenance of safe and healthy trees
in City parks and on City streets. Care includes trimming and removal of dead, damaged or diseased trees
and limbs from these areas. They also maintain and stock a city nursery, which provides trees for
residential streets, parks, cemeteries, and golf course plantings as needed. Grounds & Landscape
Maintenance Section is responsible for care and maintenance of turf, shrubs, ornamental trees and
flowers, as well as planting new growth for the next season. They also handle repair of tables, benches,
signs and playground equipment, as well as ice and snow removal on trails, parking areas, and park
sidewalks during the winter season. Athletic Fields and Pool Maintenance is responsible for the
maintenance of City athletic fields and the public outdoor pools at Hunter and Moores Parks, as well as
Cemetery burials and grounds maintenance (see Cemetery Fund).
• Leisure Services
The Leisure Services Division operates recreation programs at four Community Centers (Gier, Foster, Letts,
Schmidt), Special Recreation Services (Hunter and Moores Swimming Pools, Kids Camp and Therapeutic
Recreation) and Lifetime Sports.The division also operates specialized facilities such as the Turner-Dodge
House (historic home) and the Fenner Nature Center. Programming at the Fenner Nature Center is
conducted by the Fenner Conservancy.
• Golf Operations
The department operates Groesbeck Golf Course which is an 18 hole golf course located at 1600 Ormond.
The Sycamore Driving Range and Practice Facility is operated by The First Tee of Mid-Michigan, and is
located at 1526 E. Mount Hope Avenue. This program provides quality instruction on the game of golf for
youth and adults. The First Tee of Mid-Michigan operates the driving range, which is open to the public for
practice.
Facilities
Programmed recreation sites are Letts, Gier, Schmidt and Foster Community Centers; Groesbeck golf course;
Sycamore Golf Academy and Driving Range; Lansing River Trail; Moore's Park and Hunter Park swimming
pools; Fenner Nature Center; the Turner-Dodge House; Davis, Gier, Ranney, Sycamore, Davis and Kircher Park
ball fields. We have several neighborhood parks and athletic fields throughout the city where recreation
programming occurs throughout the year. We also provide several facilities for rental which include Frances
Park Rose Garden and Overlook, and Cooley Gardens.
City of Lansing 19
Parks and Recreation Master Plan, 2015-2020 - DRAFT COPY JAN 14, 2015
ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE
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City of Lansing 2O
Parks and Recreation Master Plan, 2015-020 - DRAFT COPY JAN 14 2015
ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE
Relationship with Other Agencies, Departments and Organizations
Regional Directors Group
As a spin off of the 2000-2005 Five Year Parks and Recreation Plan process, a Regional Directors Group was
formed and later was renamed the "Heart of Michigan Trails". The intention was to meet on a regular basis to
maintain contact with each other in an effort to advance regional goals. That group has evolved into a
regional trails group, but several park directors felt it beneficial to continue to meet and discuss a broad range
of topics. The group meets on a quarterly basis and includes directors from the City of Lansing, DeWitt, East
Lansing, Meridian Township, Eaton County, Ingham County, Delta Township, Delhi Township, and Portland.
Lansing School District
Lansing park property abuts many of the District schools leading to a school/park relationship. In 2009, the
South Side Community Center opened at the former Harry Hill High School. The Lansing Parks and Recreation
Department, Police Department and Lansing School District are sharing the facilities including recreational and
meeting spaces. The schools also use many of the park facilities for school athletic functions. The
department's athletic and summer programming often use school facilities as well. The department is working
with the Lansing School District in hopes of improving integration between the school district's numerous
facilities and the department's programming ability. The intent is to foster a close integration and cooperation
to prevent the duplication of facilities to allow both organizations to better serve the Lansing residents.
Fenner Conservancy
Through a license agreement, the Fenner Conservancy now manages programs at the Fenner Nature Center.
The City maintains ownership of the property and provides some funding for staffing and maintenance.
Lansing Boat Club
The Lansing Boat Club manages the Lansing Municipal Marina located at Grand River Park.
Downtown Lansing, Inc
The Downtown Lansing, Inc. promotes the downtown and surrounding neighborhoods in Lansing. They also
organize several social and recreational events in downtown Lansing each year, including Frost Fest, Taste of
Downtown, Trick or Treat on the Square, Silver Bells in the City, and Breakfast with Santa.
Citizen Advisory Groups
The department is assisted by several citizen advisory groups. These groups have been formed to advocate for
a particular facility or recreational activity. During the planning and budgetary process, they advocate for their
specific area and throughout the year they provide many hours of volunteer support, as well as funding for
many development projects and equipment at various park facilities. The size and membership of these
groups vary from a few to several hundred. Each has established its own set of by-laws and several of them
operate as non-profit corporations.
City of Lansing 21
Parks and Recreation Master Plan, 2015-2020 - DRAFT COPY JAN 14, 2015
ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE
Department Sponsored Boards
Organization Park or Facility
Foster Center Advisory Board Foster Community Center
Foster Park Youth Advisory Board Foster Community Center
Gier Park Advisory Board Gier Park Community Center
Letts Advisory Board Letts Community Center
Letts Youth Advisory Board Letts Community Center
Schmidt Center Advisory Board Alfreda Schmidt Community Center
Friends Groups
Organization Park or Facility
Friends of Cooley Gardens Cooley Gardens
Friends of Frances Park Frances Park
Friends of Turner Dodge House Turner Dodge House
Friends of Ferris Park Ferris Park
Friends of Durant Park Durant Park
Friends of the Lansing River Trail River Trail
Friends of Lansing Historic Cemeteries Evergreen, Mt. Hope and North Cemeteries
Friends of Hunter Park Hunter Park
Friends of Bancroft Park Bancroft Park
Friends of Reutter Park Reutter Park
Neighborhood Organizations
Various neighborhood groups organized through the Lansing Neighborhood Council and Neighborhood Watch
Program assist the department with neighborhood specific parks and facilities. See Appendix for list.
Other Organizations
Organization Park or Facility
Lansing Community College Westside and Ranney Park
Old Town Commercial Association Burchard Park
Lansing Garden Club Scott House: Sunken Gardens
Greater Lansing Food Bank Foster Park
MSU Women's Crew Grand River Park
MSU Men's Crew Club Grand River Park
Lansing Oar and Paddle Club Grand River Park
J & K Steamboat Grand River Park
Lansing Boat Club Grand River Park
Capitol Area BMX Association Gier Park
Moores Park Neighborhood Organization Moores Park
Friends of Fenner Conservancy Fenner Conservancy
Information Technology Empowerment Center Foster Community Center
Greater Lansing African American Health Institute Letts Community Center
City of Lansing 22
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ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE
Other Organizations (cont.)
Organization Park or Facility
Peppermint Creek Theater Miller Road Community Center
Neogen Oak Park
Michigan State University Softball Club Ranney Park
Mid Michigan Turf LLC Hope Soccer Complex
City of Lansing 23
Parks and Recreation Master Plan, 2015-2020 - DRAFT COPY JAN 14, 2015
ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE
Policies
Charter of the City of Lansing
Establishment:
The Charter of the City of Lansing, Michigan, was approved by the voters on August 8, 1978. Article 1, Chapter
1, Section 101 states, "The people of the City of Lansing, by adoption of this home rule Charter, create and
continue a body corporate known as the 'City of Lansing' and provide for continuing control of their municipal
corporation."
Sale of Land:
Section 403.6 of the Charter states, "No park, recreation, cemetery, or waterfront land may be sold without
the approval, by a majority vote, of the electors of the city voting on the question at a regular or special
election."
Grants:
City Council Grants Policy (Resolution 357 of 11/23/98) states, "Any grant shall be subject to the same
budgetary policies required of other City expenditures as required in Sections 7-107 through 7-110 of the City
Charter. Applications for grants requiring the addition of City staff or a City match of $10,000 or more, or
exceeding $100,000 or exceeding one year in length, shall require a financial impact statement and approval
of the City Council. Any grant funded position shall terminate upon the expiration of elimination of grant
funding. No grant, which is subject to these provisions, shall be accepted without the approval of City
Council."
City Council Policy Resolutions
Park Land Policy:
This policy was adopted by City Council, in 1979, and covers policies and procedures for the acquisition,
development, encroachment and disposal of park land. In April 2003, the City Council adopted a resolution
classifying City properties as dedicated park land. City ordinance states that the Mayor shall designate
whether or not property acquired shall be added to the written inventory. When the Park Board is advising the
Mayor on acquisitions, they need to recommend whether the land should be dedicated as park land and
recommend a classification for the acquisition (i.e. neighborhood, community, city-wide or special use park).
City of Lansing 24
Parks and Recreation Master Plan, 2015-2020 - DRAFT COPY JAN 14, 2015
ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE
Funding and Budget
Operating Budget
The Parks and Recreation Department's operating budget is funded through the general fund of the City. The
department also administers two enterprise funds for the Golf and Cemetery operations. The enterprise funds
are used to cover operating and capital costs. Service and program fees are charged to offset the general fund
operations.
Infrastructure Budget
The capital improvement projects for the Parks and Recreation Department are funded in the City's
infrastructure budget. The Parks and Recreation portion of this infrastructure budget is also known as the
Lansing Park Millage. The city of Lansing's definition of a capital improvement project is a project that has a
useful life of at least ten years and costs no less than $15,000. Capital improvement projects must meet
accounting definitions for items that can be capitalized. Generally, professional services and free-standing
equipment are not considered to be capital improvements.
Current and Projected Budget 2013 — 2015
Department Appropriation % Change
FY 14
FY 2014 Amended
FY 2013 Adopted FY 2014 FY 2015 FY15
Actual Budget Projected Adopted Adopted
Parks and Recreation
General Fund $6,629,218 $7,048,750 $7,430,195 $8,790,130 5.30%
Cemeteries Fund 636,516 713,800 713,800 $703,830 -2.40%
Golf Fund 863,241 932,400 920,326 $891,640 -0.50%
Parks Capital
Improvements 215,000 300,000 300,000 $1,260,000 21.70%
Total Parks & Recreation $8,343,975 $8,994,950 $9,364,321 $9,410,070
City of Lansing 25
Parks and Recreation Master Plan, 2015-2020 - DRAFT COPY JAN 14, 2015
RECREATION INVENTORY
Recreation Inventory
The recreation inventory is an essential item to the Parks and Recreation Department. It allows the
Department to assess the quantity and type of facilities and where they are located, identify where new
facilities should be built, where ADA upgrades are needed. It also allows the Department to showcase the
variety of programs and events offered, and opportunities for programs and events. The City performs annual
on-site inspections of each park, continually updating the Facilities Inventory as renovations and additions
occur so they have a current list. Programs and events administered by the Parks Department within the past
year are included in the program and event listing.
After the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act, in 1990, the Parks and Recreation Department
developed a Transition Plan. The process involved completing accessibility assessments of the Lansing Park
system and its facilities. The plan targeted barriers that hinder the availability of services, facilities, programs
and activities for people with disabilities. The plan was completed and adopted by the City Council, in 1993.
The Parks and Recreation Department's recent projects have been constructed to comply with all federal and
state statutes regarding barrier-free compliance, including a universally accessible canoe and kayak launch at
Crego Park. It is a goal of the Department to continue to bring all facilities into compliance with these
standards.
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City of Lansing 26
Parks and Recreation Master Plan, 2015-2020 - DRAFT COPY JAN 14, 2015
RECREATION INVENTORY
PARK FACILITIES INVENTORY
LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
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CITY MARKET,
AMPHITHEATER
F-3 ADADO RIVERFRONT 1,4 18.42 • • D • • • CW FESTIVALS
LARGE OPEN
E-8 ATTWOOD 3 28.80 • • • • • C FIELD
C-6 AVERILL 3 8.00 • • N
H-2 BANCROFT 1 42.43 • • • • • • • • • • C KETTLE LAKE
F-5 BARB DEAN TOT LOT 1 0.89 • • • N
E-2 BASSETT 4 3.40 • • • • N
F-8 BECK 2 10.50 • • N
F-8 BLUEBELL 2 2.71 • • N
FISH LADDER,N.
DAM,CANOE
F-3 BURCHARD 4 5.10 • • • • D • • • CW PORTAGE
G-5 CAESAR-DONORA 1 2.90 • C
F-7 CAVANAUGH 2 25.10 • • • C
R
G-4 I CHERRY HILL 4 4.97 2 1 • • • D I • •
COMMUNITY
G-5 CLIFFORD 1 5.44 • • 3 • • • GARDEN
E-3 COMSTOCK 4 8.29 2 • • • • • • C
FORMAL
F-4 COOLEY GARDENS 4 1.40 • • • • • CW GARDEN
LAKE
FRONTAGE,
NATURAL
SETTING,
KRUEGER
1-5 CREGO LARGEST 2 200.70 • D • • • U/W LANDING
FARMERS
C-8 1 DAVIS 3 1 45.80 4 • 2 1 • CW MARKET
CW/
F-2 DIETRICH 4 5.00 • • • • • • W
HISTORIC
HOUSE,INDOOR
CW/ MEETING
F-2 DODGE 4 8.69 • • • • W CENTER
D-3 I DUNNEBACK 4 6.40 1 2 • • • 1 1 N
HISTORIC SITE,
F-3 DURANT 4 3.00 • • C ARCH
F-2 EDMORE 4 0.40 • • • NM
G-4 ELM 1 5.60 • • • • • Cm
D-5 ELMHURST 3 5.30 • • 2 • N
G-6 EVER TT 2 3.00 • • • • C
1-3 FAIRVIEW 1 4.20 • • Ic NATURAL AREA
City of Lansing 27
Parks and Recreation Master Plan, 2015-2020 - DRAFT COPY JAN 14, 2015
RECREATION INVENTORY
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INDEX PARK NAME FEATURES
ARBORETUM,
I-5 FENNER NATURE CENTER 2 130.00 • • • • • TOURS
LARGE OPEN
F-3 FERRIS 4 5.92 2 • • FIELD
A-7 FINE 3 35.99 • U
1-6 FOREST VIEW 2 8.10 • 3 2 • • • • • • N
COMMUNITY
1-4 FOSTER 1 4.00 • 3 • • • • N GARDEN
COMMUNITY
1-3 FOSTER COMM.CTR. 1 2.30 • • • • • C CENTER,GYM
FORMAL
FLOWER
CW/ GARDENS,RIVER
C-5 FRANCES 4 57.80 • 3 • • • • O • • • • W OVERLOOK
RIVER
A-6 FULTON 3 26.30 • • • D • • CM OVERLOOK
E-9 GEORGETOWN 3 11.20 • 3 2 • • • N
COMMUNITY
CENTER,GYM,
SOFTBALL
G-1 GIER 1 36.22 4 COMPLEX,BMX
• • • • • CW TRACK
1-6 GLEN EDEN 2 2.50 N
R/ CW/
C-5 GRAND RIVER 4 41.62 • D • • W
ADMINISTERED
BY DELTA
A-1 GRAND WOODS 4 139.3 • • • • • • • C1W TOWNSHIP
C-8 GRAVES,GERALD W. 3 8.74 • • N
F-5 GREENCROFT 2 1.50 N
B-7 HILLBORN 3 6.20 • • • N
E-4 HILLSDALE 4 3.20 • N
D-6 HOLLY 3 5.00 • N
D-1 HORSEBROOK 4 4.37 • • N
E-3 HULL COURT 4 1.30 • • • N
OUTDOOR
SWIMMING
POOL,SPRAY
PARK,GREEN
H-4 HUNTER 1 14.00 • 2 • • • • • • HOUSE
C-6 INGHAM 3 11.80 • • • N
G-5 IRVING 1 0.40 N
F-1 JONES LAKE 4 2.38 • • • NM LAKE FRONTAGE
R.E.OLDS
MEMORIAL
G-4 KALAMAZOO PLAZA 4 0.83 • • • C/W STATUE
G-8 KAYNORTH 2 2.55 • N
G-7 KENDON 2 5.72 • • N
NATURAL MARSH
1-2 KIMBERLY 1 19.50 N ECOSYSTEM
COMMUNITY
CENTER,GYM,
COMMUNITY
E-4 KINGSLEY LETTS CC 4 4.60 • • 4 • • • • • GARDEN
City of Lansing 28
Parks and Recreation Master Plan, 2015-2020 - DRAFT COPY JAN 14, 2015
RECREATION INVENTORY
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BASEBALL
J-4 KIRCHER 1 6.70 • • • • • • • STADIUM
G-3 LARCH 1 0.50 N
C-5 LEWTON 3 1.70 • N
G-6 LYONS 2 5.00 • 2
H-7 MAGUIRE 2 8.86 • • • • W
ER
H-9 MARSCOT 2 5.00 • 2 • N
SAND
H-3 MARSHALL 1 11.40 2 • • 9 • • • • • C VOLLEYBALL
E-8 McKINCH 3 22.50 • • • N
B-3 MICHIGAN AVE. 4 28.12 • • • CW
INDOOR
MEETING
G-8 MILLER ROAD COMM.CTR. 2 0.30 • • CENT
F-1 MOORE,HAROLD 4 2.20 • • • •
SHUFFLE
•
BOARD
S.DAM,
OUTDOOR
SWIMMING
POOL,
F-5 MOORES 4 22.90 • • 2 • • O • D • • Cm LABYRINTH
1-7 MUNN 2 14.36 • • • • NIW
G-3 OAK 1 16.70 • • • • • •
H-3 ORMOND 1 8.20 • • • N
D-3 OSBORN 4 0.60 • • N
D-7 PLEASANT VIEW 3 7.40 • C
ADMINISTERED
BYINGHAM
CW/ COUNTY,ZOO-
G-5 POTTER 1 98.50 • • • • O • O • • W FEE
H-2 PORTER 1 10.70 • • • • N
G-6 PDXSON 2 16.70 • • N
D-5 QUENTIN 4 10.30 2 2 • • C
SKATEBOARD
J-3 RANNEY 1 19.10 • 2 • • • CW PARK,HANDBALL
F-2 I REASONER 1 6.62 • • • • • N
FORMER GOLF
J-4 RED CEDAR 1 61.30 • • • • CW COURSE
H-4 REGENT 1 4.90 • 1 N
F-6 REOLA 2 0.60 • • N
F-4 REUTTER 4 3.00 • C FOUNTAIN
COMMUNITY
D-7 RISDALE 3 17.60 • • 2 • • N GARDEN
City of Lansing 29
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RECREATION INVENTORY
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RIVER
F-4 RIVERPOINT 1 4.37 • • • D • • • Cm CONFLUENCE
E-5 RIVERSIDE 4 7.30 • NM
D-4 ST.JOSEPH 4 18.80 3 • • 6 • • • C
SUNKEN
GARDEN,
INDOOR
CW/ MEETING
F-4 SCOTT CENTER AND PARK 4 5.50 • • • W CENTER
NATURAL
CW/ SETTING,DOG
H-6 SCOTT WOODS 2 86.80 • • • • • • • W PARK
G-2 SEVENTH 1 1.58 • • N
LEASED FROM
LANSING
SCHOOL
DISTRICT-GYM,
AUDITORIUM,
POOL,MEETING
C-8 SCHMIDT COMM.CTR 3 • • • ROOMS
CW/ CEMETERY
H-5 SHUBEL 2 55.50 • • W1 OFFICE
H-4 STABLER 1 1.30 • •
H-5 STROUD 2 0.80
C-2 SUNSET HILLS 4 0.40
G-5 SYCAMORE 2 10.00 • • • • • • • C
1-6 TAMMANY 2 1.60 • • N
D-2 TECUMSEH 4 39.00 • • 2 • • • • NM
G-5 TRAGER 1 0.60 • • NM
F-2 TURNER SMALLEST 1 0.04 • N MINI PARK
C-7 WAINWRIGHT 3 5.40 • 2 • • N
G-7 WALDO 2 0.50 • • N
H-4 WALSH 1 4.00 • • • N
F-6 WASHINGTON 4 44.01 • • • C • • CW
C-3 WAVERLY 4 87.80 • • CW *SALE PENDING
F-4 WENTWORTH 4 0.90 • CW
D-3 WEST SIDE 4 15.50 2 • • • • • • • C HORSEHOES
F-10 WILLOUGHBY 2 50.00 U
B-1 WILSON 4 4.92 • • 2 • • •
B-6 WOODCREEK 3 4.43 • 2 •
TOTAL PARK ACREAGE 1912.57 AVERAGE PARK SIZE 18 ACRES
City of Lansing 30
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RECREATION INVENTORY
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GOLF COURSES
18 HOLES,
SHOWERS,
C-6 GROSEBECK 1 74.00 • • • LOCKERS,FEE*
F-6 SYCAMORE 2 53.20 • • • DRIVING RANGE
TOTAL G.C.ACREAGE 127.20 AVERAGE G.C.SIZE 63.6 ACRES
CEMETERIES
G-7 EVERGREEN 2 103.90
G-6 MT.HOPE 2 84.20 •
J-6 NORTH 2 14.40
TOTAL CEM.ACREAGE 202.5 AVERAGE CEM.SIZE 67.5 ACRES
R I V E R T R A I L 16 MILE LENGTH AS OF 2014
1,2,4 PAVED AND BOARDWALK TRAILWAY ALONG THE RED CEDAR AND GRAND RIVERS(SEE
ACCESS POINTS ABOVE) L
•=ONE
FACILITY/ACTIVITY o=FEE
CLASSIFICATION C=COMMUNITY PARK
CW=CITY WIDE PARK
L=LINEAR PARK
N=NEIGHBORHOOD
U=UNDEVELOPED
W=WATERFRONT
City of Lansing 31
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RECREATION INVENTORY
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Lansing Parks and River Trails
City of Lansing 32
Parks and Recreation Master Plan, 2015-2020 - DRAFT COPY JAN 14, 2015
RECREATION INVENTORY
Comparison to Recreation Standards
The city of Lansing park land was classified using the Recreation Park and Open Space Standards and
Guidelines, published by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) for mini, neighborhood,
community, or linear Park and the Cities definition of a city-wide park based on size, equipment, facilities and
location.
Lansing has 17.7 acres of park land per 1,000 people going beyond NRPA guidelines of 6.25 to 10.5 acres of
land per 1,000 people. The various park types are distributed throughout the four city wards. The quantity of
neighborhood parks is above the minimum recommended acreage. The acreage for community parks is below
the recommended amount. There are several undeveloped sites that, once developed, will most likely be
classified as community parks. The development of these parks will bring the community park acreage within
the recommended acreage per thousand people.
City of Lansing Parks
Mini-Park Community City-Wide(no Linear Park
(0.25-.5 Neighborhood Park (5-8 A/ NRPA (no NRPA
Park A/1000) Park(1-2 A/1000) 1000) recomm.) recomm.) City Total
No.of Parks 58 24 24 1 106
Park Acreage
Ward 1 85.37 83 318.44 X 486.81
Ward 2 78.14 38.4 334.36 X 450.9
Ward 3 107.87 62.5 45.8 216.17
Ward 4 86.76 227.42 285.04 X 599.22
Total Acres by Type 0 358.1 411.3 983.6 11 Miles 1753.1
Acres/1000 people 0 3.1 3.6 8.5
Other Park Land
Undeveloped Park Land Ward 1 Ward 2 Ward 3 Ward 4 Total
Acres 250.7 35.99 286.69
Total City Park Land 2039.8
Total Acres Park Land/1000
People 17.7
Total City Parks 111.0
Cemeteries 3 Cemetery Acreage 202.5
National Recreation and Park Association, recommends 6.25-10.5 Acres/1000 people
Population of 115,366 based on 2005-2007 American Community Survey, US Census
The City has 107 designated parks including 2 golf course facilities, 2 undeveloped parks, 3 cemetery facilities
and a River Trail for a total of 114 designated park facilities operated by the Department of Parks and
Recreation. The City also has a lease agreement with the Lansing School District for the use of the South Side
Community Center.
City of Lansing 33
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RECREATION INVENTORY
City-Funded Programs
Scholarships Senior Softball (Ages 50 & over, 60 & over, 70 &
The City offers partial scholarships to assist Lansing over)
residents under 18 years of age who meet Federal Youth Soccer
HUD low income guidelines for the Lansing area. Adult Tennis (Men, Women, Mixed doubles)
Scholarships may be used for Parks and Recreation Adult Volleyball (Men, Women, Co-ed)
sponsored programs and do not include team fees, Sand Volleyball (Co-ed)
supply costs, out of town trips or one day activities. Camp Lansing (Youth Basketball, Youth Soccer)
Low Impact Aerobics
Turner-Dodge House Pilates
Public Visitor Hours: May-October Adult Karate (Beginning & Advanced)
Meet Your City— local history lecture series on Youth Karate (Beginning & Advanced)
cable Family Karate
Time Travelers History Camp Jr. Karate
Harry Potter Days Kai Shin Ryu Karate
Guided Tours, Tours & Tea Pre-School Gymnastics (Ages 2-4)
School Tours Teddy Bear Indoor Soccer (Ages 3-5)
Seasonal Teas Youth Wrestling
Holiday Luncheons Yoga
Old Fashioned Family Christmas: December Acrobatics
Children's Birthday Parties Tai Chi
Heritage Badge Program (Brownie Try-Its, Girl Roller Skating
Scouts, Cub & Boy Scouts)
Rentals for Weddings and other special events Open Recreation
Mayors River Walk Destination Evening Open Basketball
Concert on the Lawn site Evening Open Volleyball
Youth Recreation (Ages 6-17)
Sports, Games and Fitness Teen Recreation (Ages 13-17)
Adult Baseball (Wooden Bat, Ages 30 & Over; Ages Adult Game room
40 & over) Tot Time (Ages 5 & under)
Youth Baseball (Junior, Wildcat, Tee Ball) NIA Dance
Adult Basketball (Women, Men)
Youth Basketball Dance
Girl's Basketball Clinic Tap
Lil Hoopers Basketball Clinic (Co-ed, Ages 4-6) Ballet
Youth Flag Football Modern Dance
Youth Floor Hockey (Leagues, Pre & Post season Jazz (Levels I & II)
tournaments) Mexican (Levels I & II)
Youth Floor Hockey Clinic (Ages 3-6) Belly (Beginning, Intermediate, Master &
Adult Softball (Men, Women, Co-ed) Choreography)
Youth Softball (Slow pitch, Fast pitch) Clogging
City of Lansing 34
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RECREATION INVENTORY
Ballroom Halloween Party
Pre-Dance Evening Dances
AcroDance Euchre
Latin Dance Skip-Bo
Hawaiian Hula Dance Billiards
Creative Movement Darts
Urban Dance Crafts
Women's Improvisational Dance Bridge
Scandinavian Dance Table Tennis
Hip Hop BINGO
Board Games
Fifty Plus Programs Birthday Celebrations
50 + Men's Basketball League Soaring Eagle Trip
Fit for Life Exercise/Walking Program Domino Farms Trip
Walking for the Health of It
Tai Chi Enrichment Classes & General Interest:
Getting in Shape Scrap Booking
Line Dancing Learn to Sew
Chair Exercise New Items and Craft Sale
Clogging Birthday Parties
On-going Guest Presentations to include the Beginning Piano (Adult and Youth)
following topics: Conversational Japanese
o Senior Employment Conversational Spanish
o Diabetes Conversational Italian
o Blood Pressure Chess Theory
o Bone Density Antique Appraisals
o Medications Babysitting
o Estate Planning Girl Power
o Medicare Massage Therapy
o Nutrition Ukrainian Egg Art
o Heart Disease Cake Decorating
o Fire Safety Dog Training
o Quit Smoking Crocheting
o Internet Fraud Knitting (Adults)
o AARP City Kidz Knit
o Tri-County Office on Aging Programs Genealogy Search
Picnics Written Memories Class
Travelogue Hunter's Safety
Potluck Dinners Home Buying Seminar
Thanksgiving Celebration Dinner Financial Resources
St. Patrick's Day Celebration Model Builder's Workshop
Valentine Celebration Young Chefs
Christmas Celebration Dinner Travelogue
City of Lansing 35
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RECREATION INVENTORY
Skratch DJ Boarshead Theater Presents
Basic Home Repair Scrabble Tournaments
Successful Futures
Social Graces Co-Sponsored Capital Area District Library (CADL)
CPR/First Aid Programs:
Computer Lab Pre-school Story time
Computer Classes Pre-school Crafts
o Adult Computer Fun Toddler Story time
o Beyond the Basics Becoming a Story Teller/Teens
o Computer Instead of Typewriter Babies and Books
o Spreadsheets Adult Book Discussion
o Making it Look Good Family Nights/Presentations
o Mail Merging Parent/Child Activity Time
o Microsoft Publisher
o Timesaver on Word Programs Supported at City Facilities
o Power Point Presentations Fenner Nature Center
o Intro to Internet Programs funded through the Friends of Fenner
o Viruses/Losing Documents Nature Center:
o Intro to Access Nature Day Camp—2 different themes each
Creative Drama summer
Poetry Reading/Teens Fall Color Walk
Rubber Stamping Cards Winter Wildflowers
Planning Your Flower Garden Spring Wildflowers
Animal Tracks and Signs
Special Programs Spring Bird Walks—Weekly for April and May
Community Centers Summer Programs Winter Night Hikes— (2)
Kids Camp Program/Field Trips Spring Evening Walks
Summer Teen Recreational/Field Trip Program Beginning Bird Watching
Hotcakes for the Holidays Landscaping for Wildlife
Lunch with Santa Bird Feeding Tips
Drive-up Santa Nature for Preschoolers
Teddy Bear Lunch with Santa Explorations for Parent and Child
Christmas Carnival Designing a Butterfly Garden
Brunch with the Easter Bunny Girl Scout Badges— (7)
Easter Egg Hunt Brownie Try-Its (9)
Teen Limousine Scavenger Hunt Cub Scout Badges
Monster Munch Lunch Saturday Children's Programs —Seasonal, natural
Teddy Bear Halloween Party history, art, etc.
Teddy Bear Ooey Gooey Fun Day Interpretive tours for schools, scouts, adults
Barbie Party (Theme parties) Programs in the community for schools, adult
Horseback/Hayride service clubs, etc.
Carnival Maple Syrup Festival
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
City of Lansing 36
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RECREATION INVENTORY
Apple Butter Festival
Earth Day Event
Arbor Day (at Potter Park)
International Migratory Bird Day (at Fenner and
Potter Park)
Tri-County Office on Aging— Meals on Wheels
Letts & South Side Community Center
City of Lansing 37
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RECREATION INVENTORY
Lansing Events
Various events are held in Lansing and at Lansing parks and facilities throughout the year. When events are
held at Lansing parks and facilities the Department schedules the facilities, makes sure that the site is
prepared and cleaned up afterwards. The Department also rents a Showmobile to groups in the Lansing area
that can be used as a portable stage for events. The following is a list of 2014 events.
Sponsored by Others (* denotes Showmobile o "Alls Well that Ends Well" play at Adado
rental/use) Park
o Moores Park Neighborhood Carnival at
o SLCDA Farmers Market at Benjamin Davis Moores Park
Park o Juneteenth Festival Make Up Baseball
o Clifford Park Neighborhood Association Game at St.Joseph Park
Picnic o "Lansing 150 Rocks" music festival on the
o Common Ground Music Festival at Adado Capital lawn*
Park o YMCA 5k Race
o U.S.S.A. Tournament at Kircher Municipal o National Night Out Kick Off at Washington
Ball Field Park
o Michigan Baseball Players Association o Poetry in the Park at the Scott House near
Tournament at Gier Park Cooley Gardens
o Faith Fellowship Baptist Church Annual o Lansing JazzFest in Old Town and Turner
Youth Block Party at Walsh Park Mini Park
o Capitol Area BMX Association "Capital Area o Mount Hope United Methodist Church
Fun Day" at Gier BMX Track "Vacation Bible School" at Clifford Park
o Friends of Cooley Gardens "Glass Artist o Senior Activities Fair at Gardner Middle
Presentation" Fundraiser at Cooley Gardens School
o Michigan Amateur& Recreational Volleyball o Greater Lansing Area Horseshoe Pitchers
Association (MARVA) Volleyball Association Tournament at Westside Park
Tournament at Marshall Park o City of Lansing Employee Picnic at Frances
o Latin American Softball League Game at Park
Davis Park o Bless Fest at Adado Park
o Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce o Southside Showcase at Davis park
"Ultimate Member Mixer" in Old Town and o 15t" Annual Lansing Community College
Turner Mini Park Caribbean Festival
o Blues on the Square downtown Lansing* o Eastside Jubilee at Hunter Park
o Meadows Music Celebration in DeWitt* o Gospel Concert at Adado Park
o MHSSCA Tournament at Ranney Park o Capital Area Mustangs Car Club "Cruise-N-
o Child Benefit Fund BBQ at Reutter Park For-A-Cause Car Show" at Adado Park
o "Celebrating the Legacy"— Letts Advisory o Shared Pregnancy Women's Center "Labor
Board Fundraiser at Letts Community of Love Run/Walk" on the Lansing River
Center Trail
0 3rd Annual Westside Summer Fest
City of Lansing 38
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RECREATION INVENTORY
o Lansing 150 Labor of Love Festival at Adado o Old Town Oktoberfest in Old Town and
Park Turner Mini Park
o "Over the Edge" Fundraiser o American Cancer Society "Making Strides
0 2nd Annual Walk for Christ & Christian Against Breast Cancer" Run/Walk
Festival downtown
o Motor City Pride Basketball Tournament at o Silver Bells in the City*
Kircher Municipal Baseball Field o Turkeyman Trot
o Old Town BluesFest in Old Town and Turner
Mini Park Sponsored by Lansing Parks and Recreation
0 3rd Annual Back in the Day Community Department
Festival at Frances Park* o Concerts in the Park at various parks
o Montessori Children's House School Picnic throughout the City*
at Frances Park o 4t" of July Parade*
0 101" Annual Capital City African American o 50t" Anniversary Celebration of Fenner
Parade & Family Reunion at Ferris Park and Nature Center—co-sponsored by Friends of
downtown* Fenner Nature Center*
o Cruisin the Gut Classic Car Show o Lacrosse Camp
o Capitol City River Run "Fall into Fitness", o Senior Picnic at Letts Community Center
Lansing River Trail and Adado Park*
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City of Lansing 39
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RECREATION INVENTORY
Department of Natural Resources - Recreation Grant History
Project Application Project Grant Grant Project Description
No Year Title Amount Status
26-00045 1966 Sheffield Park(formerly Southwest $69,615.00 Closed Acquire 26.78 A for park
River Park) development&scenic drive
extending Moores River Dr.
26-000550 1974 Lansing Outdoor Ice Rink $190,063.00 Closed Building addition, ice making
equipment,fencing, batter
boards, lighting,walks, parking
and site development
26-00693 1976 Lansing Riverfront Park $82,812.31 Closed Wharf and starter deck, 2
lighted deck tennis courts,
viewing deck,site furniture,
signs, landscape, LWCF sign
26-00926 1977 Dietrich Park Development $38,714.31 Closed Develop 5 acres for parking,
pedestrian/bike path,
landscape,site preparation,
LWCF sign,2 docks with stairs
and entry woodwork
26-01023 J3 1977 Davis Park $38,781.05 Closed Well,vault toilets,decking&
steps, pathway,fence,
parking, road, bench,
landscape, picnic tables,fire
circle, LWCF sign
26-01023 K3 1977 Lansing Tennis courts at four Parks $46,317.49 Closed Construct 2 tennis courts at
Marscott, River Street,Wilson
and Woodcreek Parks
26-01023 L3 1977 Forest View Park $14,312.91 Closed Construct 2 tennis courts
26-01023 1977 Gier Park $60y438.00 Closed Lighting&fencing for 3
M3 existing ball diamonds, LWCF
sign
26-01060 C4 1975 Theo Fulton (Sheffield) Park $30,454.31 Closed Overlook dock, play area,
parking, picnic area, LWCF sign
26-01134 0 Lansing Riverpoint Park(formerly Elm $31,300.00 Withdrawn Development of dock, boat
St. Park) ramp and parking lot
26-01221 1981 Chadwell Launch $53,297.83 Closed Develop canoe launch,
demolition,earth moving,
retaining walls,asphalt path,
landscape,dock, LWCF sign
26-01296 1984 Lansing Urban Recreation Trail $68,407.00 Closed Trail,demolition,site
development, landscape,
boardwalks,furniture,signs,
asphalt path, LWCF sign at Elm
and Cedar Street.
City of Lansing 40
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RECREATION INVENTORY
Project Application Project Grant Grant Project Description
No Year Title Amount Status
TF86-229 1986 Urban Recreation Trail $262,500.00 Closed Construction of 2 links to
Riverfront Trail. Commence at
Elm St.east of S.Cedar.
TF87-244 1987 Lansing Urban Rec.Trail $250,000.00 Closed Continue trail east of Potter Park
Zoo towards MSU.
TF88-138 1988 River Trail $375,000.00 Closed Continue walkway along Grand
River with observation decks,
fishing&canoe access
TF88-139 1988 Lansing River Trail $80,250.00 Withdrawn
TF89-187 1989 Lansing River Trail '89 $375,000.00 Closed Continue River Trail from Turner
Dodge Mansion to Brenke Fish
Ladder. Boardwalk,stairs,
grading,walls/handrails, paving
and landscape
BF89-405 1989 Moores Park Renovations $272,325.00 Closed Rebuild restroom, renovate and
resurface 12 concrete
shuffleboard courts, renovate
picnic shelter and stairs,
resurface 2 tennis courts,
parking, play equipment and
landscape.
BF89-407 1989 Potter Park Renovations $200,000.00 Closed Renovation of pavilion including
new restroom facilities and
renovation of farmyard area in
the zoo.
TF90-261 1990 Lansing River Trail '90 $316,500.00 Closed Construction of asphalt
pedestrian path with wooden
decks along the Grand River
from Grand River Ave.to the
Dodge Mansion
BF90-262 1990 Fenner Natural Area $187,500.00 Closed Redevelopment of existing trail
system, new barrier-free loop,
interpretive signs,educational
exhibits in the center and paving
existing parking lots.
BF91-096 1991 Tennis Court Repairs $97,500.00 Closed Test 3 methods of repairing
cracked asphalt at Clifford,St.
Joseph and Ranney and
replacement of fence.
BF91-097 1991 Riverpoint Park $159,300.00 Closed Develop the River Trail from Elm
St.to Washington Ave.and
Riverpoint Park and from
Clippert St.to Kalamazoo St.
BF93-270 1993 Neighborhood Play Equip. $210,000.00 Closed Adding modern accessible play
structures at Davis,Washington,
Frances and Hunter Parks
City of Lansing 41
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RECREATION INVENTORY
26-01536 1993 Frances Park Renovations $101,537.51 Closed Restoration of pavilion and
overlook structures and
removal/replacement of roads
and parking lot surfacing/curb
cuts for accessibility
TF95-122 1995 River Trail West-Phase 2 $375,000.00 Closed Link existing River Trail from
Spring St.to Riverpoint Park and
from Riverpoint Park to
Washington Ave.
TF96-102 1996 Frances Park Shoreline $408,900.00 Closed Provide improved parking areas,
fishing docks and riverbank
stabilization along the Grand
River.
TF97-027 1997 River Trail Moores Park-Elm Street $500,000.00 Closed Construction of 1,600 feet of
asphalt and boardwalk paths,
bridge over Grand River and,on
adjacent property,wooden
stairs and walkway.
CM00-099 2000 Kircher Park Renovations $360,000.00 Closed Construction of new
restroom/concession/equipment
storage building, paved parking
lot,fencing improvements and
accessibility improvements.
TF02-127 2002 Moores Park Improvements $247,800.00 Closed Develop an extension to the
Grand River Trail through
Moores Park with riverbank
stabilization and improved
fishing access and canoe launch.
TF03-106 2003 River Trail South Extension $226,500.00 Closed Southern extension of the
Lansing River Trail from Shubel
Park to Hawk Island County Park.
Ten foot wide, paved trail to
connect residential
neighborhoods to existing park
land.
TF04-078 2004 River Trail South Extension $500,000.00 Closed Develop a 10 foot wide asphalt
trail to include a 14 foot wide
bridge and site amenities which
provides 8,100 linear feet of
access to Sycamore Creek.
TF05-071 2005 Lansing River Trail South Extension $426,500.00 Closed Develop a 10 foot wide,4,100
linear foot bituminous trail,
boardwalk and bridge along the
Sycamore Creek from Hawk
Island Park to Maguire Park.
TF06-050 2006 Hunter Pool Renovation $500,000.00 Closed Improvements to Hunter Park
Pool including installation of
splash park, upgrades to existing
pool with zero depth entry,
mechanical upgrades,drains and
City of Lansing 42
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RECREATION INVENTORY
pool deck for water-based
outdoor recreation in an urban
setting.
TF10-050 2010 Crego Park Development $500,000.00 Active Improvements to Crego Park
included permable pavement
parking lot, universally
accessible kayak/canoe launch,
walking paths,fishing docks,site
amenities.
TF12-019 2012 Frances Park Trail Improvement $300,000.00 Active Improvement to the River Trail.
Includes fishing docks, benches,
bike racks,and viewing platform
City of Lansing 43
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RECREATION INVENTORY
Project Application Project Grant Grant Project Description
No Year Title Amount Status
TF95-125 1995 Fenner Arboretum In holding $360,000.00 Closed Acquire 10 acre parcel,a
Acquisition commercial inholding, and
return it to its natural setting
TF97-218 1997 Poyet Parcel Acquisition $900,000.00 Withdrawn Acquire 31 acres of forested
natural area in the Sycamore
Creek corridor for preservation
and extension of the River Trail.
TF08-147 2008 Hunter's Ridge Land Acquisition $785,300.00 Active Acquisition of 28.47 acres of
property with 500 feet of
frontage on the Grand River to
be used for walking trails,
wildlife viewing,fishing
opportunities and habitat
protection.
The Lansing Parks and Recreation Department has been successful in obtaining grants from the MDNR for
several decades. The Department has maintained the facilities constructed with grant funds to allow for
aesthetically pleasing sites and safe use for the public.
City of Lansing 44
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RECREATION INVENTORY
Non-City Owned Recreational Opportunities
Billiards
Aim High Sports: 7977 Centerline Dr., Dimondale
Barley's American Outpost: 727 E. Miller, Lansing Eaton Rapids Camp Meeting Retreats: 606 Outer
Freddie's Place: 2215 W. Holmes Rd., Lansing Dr., Eaton Rapids
Lansing Billiards: 5214 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Girl Scout Camp Wacousta: 13360 S. Wacousta Rd.,
Lansing Grand Ledge
Pinball Pete's: 220 Albert, East Lansing Mystic Lake YMCA & Pa-Wa-Pi YMCA Day Camp:
Pockets: 1618 S. Washington, Lansing 2306 Haslett, Lansing
Royal Scot Bowling Lanes: 4722 W. Grand River, Tutor Time Adventure Camp:
Lansing 2273 Club Meridian Dr., Okemos
Tripper's: 354 Frandor, Lansing 1150 Commerce Park Parkway, DeWitt
Bowling Canoe/Boat Rental
Spare Time Bowling Lanes: 3101 E. Grand River, Burchfield Park: 630 % N. Cedar, Mason
Lansing Harlow's Wacousta Canoe Rental: 9988 Riverside
Lansing Bowling Association: 3407 W. Herbison Rd., Dr., Eagle
DeWitt
Marvelanes: 2120 M-78, East Lansing Clubs
City Limits Bowling Center: 801 N. Cedar, Mason
Michigan State University Union: Abbot @ Grand American Legion:
River, East Lansing 112 S Howard, Lansing
Pro Bowl: 2122 N. Martin Luther King, Lansing 731 N Clinton, Grand Ledge
Redwing Bowling Lanes: N. US-27, St. Johns 1240 E. Grand River, Laingsburg
Royal Scot Lanes: 4722 W Grand River, Lansing Capital City Old Car Club: 2373 W. Barnes, Mason
Sky Lanes: 5141 S. Martin Luther King, Lansing Chief Okemos Sportsman's Club: 4667 Gunnell,
Dimondale
Campgrounds City Club of Lansing: 213 S. Grand Ave., Lansing
Country Club of Lansing: 2200 Moores River,
Hickory Lake Campgrounds: 11433 S Beardslee Rd., Lansing
Perry Family Motorcycle Club: 1206 S. Washington,
Lansing Cottonwood Campground: 5339 Aurelius, Lansing
Lansing Jug & Mug Ski Club: 2216 E. Michigan, Lansing
Moon Lake Campground: 12700 S. Colby Lake Rd., Kiwanis Club of East Lansing: MSU Union Building,
Laingsburg Williamston
Mullican's Riverside Resort: 3266 N. Ionia Rd., Lansing Association of Women's Club: 301 N. Butler
Vermontville Blvd., Lansing
Wheel Inn Campground: 240 Fogg, Leslie Lansing Boat Club: 2901 W. Main, Lansing
Township
Camps Lansing Sailing Club: 6039 E. Lake Drive, Haslett
City of Lansing 45
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RECREATION INVENTORY
Leiderkranz Club: 5828 S. Pennsylvania, Lansing Happendance Studio YWCA: 3448 Hagadorn,
Metropolitan Flying Club: 2216 E. Michigan, Okemos
Lansing Island Dance Center: 224 S. Main, Eaton Rapids
Michigan State Grange: 1730 Chamberlain Way, Karyn's Dance Place: 4462 Holt, Delhi Twp.
Haslett Lansing Chamber Dance: 2456 Cedar St., Holt
Michigan Trap Shooting Association: 1534 Service Red Cedar Gymnastics: 1860 % W. Grand River,
Rd., Mason Okemos
Okemos Seahawks Aquatic Club: 1632 Alpha, Rising Star Studio: 526 Lentz, Lansing
Lansing Studio de Dance: 1306 Michigan, East Lansing
Polish Home Federated: 1030 Mt. Hope, Lansing Synergy Touring Company: 2002 Cedar St., Holt
Rotary Club of Lansing: 417 Seymour, Lansing Tari's Cornerstone Studio: 1673 Haslett, Haslett
Spartan Water Polo Club Twistars USA Inc.: 9410 Davis Hwy., Dimondale
Ten Pound Fiddle: 431 Gainsborough Dr., East Patsy Watson School of Dance: 3222 S. Martin
Lansing Luther King Jr. Blvd., Lansing
Tri-County Bicycle Association: 5825 Oak Knoll, Williams School of Dance: 128 W. Grand River,
Lansing Williamston
University Club of Michigan State: 3435 Forest Rd.,
East Lansing Golf Courses - Miniature
V.F.W. Post 6034: 412 E. Main, Potterville
V.F.W. Post 7309: 1243 Hull, Lansing DeWitt Family Golf Center: 11890 US-27, DeWitt
Funtyme Adventure Park:
Dance and Gymnastics 800 Hogsback, Mason
6295 E. Saginaw, Grand Ledge
Academy of Dance Arts: 2224 E. Michigan, Lansing 3384 James Phillips Dr., Okemos
Ann's School of Dance: 3320 E. Lake Lansing, East King Par Golf: 1410 W. Grand River, Okemos
Lansing WindRiver Adventure Golf: 5800 Park Lake Rd.,
Assiff Studio of the Dance: 140 W. Grand River, East Lansing
East Lansing
Baur Nancie Dance Studio: 2018 Cedar St., Delhi Golf Courses—Practice Ranges
Twp.
Synergy Dance: 1723 E Grand River, Okemos Applegate Golf Center: 2055 Towner, Haslett
Children's Ballet Theatre: 1235 Center St., Lansing Branson Bay Golf Course: 215 Branson Bay Dr.,
Dance Fusion: 2168 Cedar St., Delhi Twp. Mason
Dance World: 16262 Chandler, East Lansing DeWitt Family Golf Center: 11890 US 27, DeWitt
Danzalot LLC: 1493 Haslett Rd., Haslett El Dorado: 3750 W. Howell, Mason
DeMellio Studio of Dance: 1115 % N. Washington, Forest Akers Golf Course: 3535 Forest Rd., Lansing
Lansing Funtyme Adventure Park:
Donna Marie's Studio of Dance: 800 Thomas L. 800 Hogsback, Mason
Parkway, W. Delta Twp. 6295 E. Saginaw, Grand Ledge
Great Lakes Gymnastics: 1900 S. Cedar, Lansing 3384 James Phillips Dr., Okemos
Greater Lansing Ballet Company: 2224 E. Michigan Highland Hills: 450 W. Alward, DeWitt
Ave., Lansing King Par: 1410 W. Grand River, Okemos
Lansing Golf Center: 5855 M-99, Dimondale
City of Lansing 46
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RECREATION INVENTORY
Eagle View Golf Club: 2602 Tomlinson, Mason Twin Brook: 2200 Island Hwy., Charlotte
Royal Scot: 4722 W. Grand River, Lansing Twin Oaks: 6345 N. US-27, St. Johns
Timber Ridge: 16339 Park Lake, East Lansing Wheatfield Valley: 1600 Linn Rd., Williamston
Golf Courses - Private Health & Fitness
Country Club of Lansing: 2200 Moores River, Court One:
Lansing 1609 Lake Lansing, Lansing
Grand Ledge Country Club: 5813 E. St. Joseph Hwy, 2291 Research Circle, Okemos
Grand Ledge Curves for Women:
Walnut Hills: 2874 Lake Lansing, East Lansing 2040 N. Aurelius Rd., Delhi Twp.
602 Elmwood Rd., Delta Twp.
Golf Courses - Public Fitness USA:
5611 W. Saginaw, Lansing
Akers: Mt. Hope & S. Harrison, East Lansing Frandor Mall, 656 Frandor
Bonnie View: 194 S. Michigan, Eaton Rapids Go Work Out: 6135 W. Saginaw, Lansing
Branson Bay: 215 Branson Bay, Mason Gold's Gym: 4790 S. Hagadorn, Lansing
Brookshire Inn: 205 W. Church, Williamston Hawaii Health Spa: 4979 Lansing Rd., Lansing
Centennial Acres: 12485 Dow Road, Sunfield Michigan Athletic Club: 2900 Hannah, East Lansing
Eagle View Golf Club: 2395 S. Washington, Lansing Mid-Michigan Academy of Martial Art:
El Dorado: 3750 W. Howell, Mason 5218 S. Martin Luther King, Lansing
Glenbrier: 4178 W. Locke, Perry 2128 Hamilton, Okemos
Governors Club of Michigan LLC: 4036 S. Hagadorn, One on One Personal Training: 4749 Central Park,
Okemos Okemos
Grand Ledge Country Club: 5813 E. St. Joseph, Powerhouse Gym: 12900 US-27, DeWitt
Grand Ledge Spartan Swim Team
Hawk Hollow Golf Course: 15101 Chandler Rd., World Gym: 2380 N. Cedar, Holt
Bath YMCA:
Highland Hills: 450 E. Alward, DeWitt Dewitt Branch, 13161 Schavey Rd., DeWitt
Hunter's Ridge Golf Course: 8101 Byron Rd., Howell Downtown Branch, N. Washington Ave., Lansing
Indian Hills: 4887 Nakoma, Okemos Oak Park Branch, 900 Long Blvd, Lansing
Ironwood Links: 742 N. Eifert, Mason Parkwood Branch, 2306 Haslett Rd, East Lansing
Lake 0' the Hills: 2101 LacDuMont, Haslett Westside Community, 3700 Old Lansing Rd.,
Ledge Meadows: 1801 Grand Ledge Highway, Lansing
Grand Ledge
Meridian Sun Golf Club: 1018 Haslett Rd., Haslett Museums
Oak Lane: 800 N. Main, Webberville
Pine Hills: 6603 N. Woodbury, Laingsburg Abrams Planetarium: Michigan State University,
Prairie Creek: 800 Web Road, DeWitt East Lansing
Royal Scot: 4722 W. Grand River, Lansing Impression Five: 200 Museum Dr., Lansing
The Falcon at Hawk Hollow: 555 Quarter Horse, Michigan Historical Museum: 717 W. Allegan,
East Lansing Lansing
Timber Ridge: 16339 Park Lake, East Lansing
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RECREATION INVENTORY
Eli and Edith Broad Art Museum, Michigan State Sun Theatre: 316 S. Bridge, Grand Ledge
University, East Lansing
Michigan Supreme Court Learning Center: 925 W. Theatres— Performing Arts
Ottawa
Michigan State University Kresge Art Gallery: All of Us Express—Childrens: 3222 S. Martin L. King
Michigan State University, East Lansing Jr. Blvd., Lansing
Michigan State University Museum: W. Circle Dr., Lansing Community College: 401 N. Capitol, Lansing
East Lansing Michigan State University Department of Theatre:
Michigan Women's Museum & Hall of Fame: 213 East Lansing
W. Main Street, Lansing Riverwalk Theatre: 228 Museum Dr., Lansing
R.E. Olds Transportation Museum: 240 Museum Wharton Center: Michigan State University, East
Dr., Lansing Lansing
Telephone Pioneer Museum: 221 N. Washington
Sq., Lansing
Nature Centers
Harris Nature Center: 3998 Van Atta Rd. Okemos
Woldumar Nature Center: 5739 Lansing Rd. Delta
Twp.
Skating Rinks/Parks/Rental
Apple Sports: 1050 Trowbridge, Lansing
Edru Skate-A-Rama: 1891 S. Cedar, Holt
Suburban Ice Sports: 2810 Hannah Blvd., East
Lansing
Munn Ice Arena: Michigan State University, East
Lansing
The Summit: 9410 Davis Hwy., Dimondale
Theatres - Cinema
Celebration Cinema: 200 E. Edgewood Blvd.,
Lansing
Lansing Mall West Cinema: 921 W. Mall Dr.,
Lansing
Studio C: Meridian Mall, 1999 Central Park Dr.,
Okemos
Meridian 8 Theaters: 1982 W. Grand River Ave,
Okemos
NCG Lansing Cinemas: 2500 Showtime Dr., Lansing
Township
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RECREATION INVENTORY
Lansing School District Facilities
The Lansing School District and the Parks Department share many facilities and programming choices. The
schools use some park facilities for school activities and the Department's athletic and summer programming
often use school facilities. The Parks Department also runs the school aquatic programs.
The Lansing School District covers 52 square miles and is the 5t" largest school district in the state of Michigan.
It includes 23 elementary schools, 3 middle schools, 3 high schools, 6 magnet programs, 2 administrative and
support facilities and 1 vocational/alternative education building. It is one of twelve school districts within the
Ingham Intermediate School District.
Non-Public Schools
There are 26 different non-public schools from parochial, Montessori to charter schools including Capital Area
Academy, Education Options, Cole Academy, El-hajj Malik El-shabazz Academy, Emmanuel Lutheran School,
Greater Lansing Adventist School, Hope Academy, Immaculate Heart of Mary/St. Casimir, Lansing Baptist
School, Lansing Catholic High School, Lansing Christian Schools, Lansing Seventh-Day Adventists, Harley Franks
Early Childhood Center, Mid-Michigan Leadership Academy, Mid-Michigan Public School Academy, Montessori
Children's House, Mosaica Education, New City Academy, New Covenant Christian School, Our Savior Lutheran
School, Pam's Academy of Champions, Resurrection Catholic School, St. Gerard Catholic School, IHM Catholic
School and Windemere Park Charter Academy.
Regional Parks and Recreational Facilities
Sleepy Hollow State Park, State of Michigan
Sleepy Hollow State Park is located in Clinton County off Price Road and US-27, between St. Johns and
Laingsburg. The park is operated by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR), and contains
over 2600 acres, with a 410 acre lake, Lake Ovid, which was developed from the Little Maple River.
The Park has a modern campground with 181 sites and restroom accommodations. Also available is a rustic
youth organization site for youth groups, scouts and church and school group use. The camp sites are within a
short walk to the park's beach area. Day use facilities at the park include a % mile beach with beach house
and concessions, shelters and picnicking, play equipment, restroom facilities, ball fields, trails for hiking and
mountain biking, groomed cross-country ski trails, and activities such as snowmobiling, hunting and trapping
(during appropriate seasons) and year round bird watching.
Sleepy Hollow is also the site of the annual Indian Pow-Wow, hosted by the Lansing North American Center.
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RECREATION INVENTORY
Rose Lake Wildlife Research Area, State of Michigan
Rose Lake Wildlife Research Area is located in Bath and Woodhull Townships with parking off of Bath, Clark,
Peacock, Robson, State, Stoll and Upton Roads. The park is operated by the MDNR and contains Rose lake,
Potter Lake and a portion of Mud Lake.
Existing facilities provide opportunities to study wildlife habitats, and activities such as hunting, snowmobiling,
cross-country skiing and trails for hiking and mountain biking. Most of the facilities provide limited access.
Parking and roadways are around the perimeter with facilities located in the middle.
Burchfield Park and Riverbend Natural Area, Ingham County
Burchfield Park contains the Riverbend Natural Area within it, making Burchfield Park the county's largest
park. The park contains over 540 acres and is located along the central western edge of the county, south of
Lansing between Dimondale and Holt, along the Grand River. The land is mostly wooded with some grass
areas. The park also contains the McNamara Canoe Landing, which is state owned land that Ingham County
has a long-term operating agreement for.
Existing features include: more than 6 miles of hiking trails, over 10 miles of mountain bike trails, a softball
diamond, bank and boat fishing, a beach with swimming on a natural spring fed pond, canoe, kayak and pedal
boat rentals, horseshoe pits, nature day camp, picnic grounds & shelters, playgrounds, volleyball courts, a
stocked fishing pond, 6.9 miles of cross-country ski trails with rentals and lessons, two sledding hills, dual 700
foot toboggan runs and a warming lodge & snack bar.
Hawk Island Park, Ingham County
Hawk Island Park is Ingham County's most recent development. The park is located in the city limits of
Lansing, between Aurelius and Pennsylvania with access to the park on the north side of Cavanaugh Road.
The north end of this park connects to Scott Woods, a City of Lansing park. It is also where the Soldan's off
leash dog park is located.
The park was built on the former Solomon Gravel Pits, reaching completion in 2001. Facilities at the park
include: a 35 acre lake, beach, bath house, boat rental, fishing with the lake stocked, picnic grounds and
shelters, playgrounds, volleyball courts, ball diamonds, paved trails, a winter sports rental area and cross-
country skiing extending through the park and, cooperatively with the City, into Scott Woods Park and
Sycamore Golf Course. There are walkways on Cavanaugh Road leading to the park.
In 2003 and 2004, the City was awarded MDNR and MDOT grant funding to extend the River Trail South from
Potter Park to Hawk Island. This connection was completed in 2007. In 2009 the trail was extended south to
Jolly Road. The long term goal is to extend the trail further south to Kenneth Hope Soccer Complex.
Kenneth A. Hope Soccer Complex, Ingham County
The Kenneth A. Hope Soccer Complex is a premier soccer complex in the tri-county area. The complex consists
of six state-of-the-art fields that have earned World Cup ratings. The complex officially opened September 9,
2000. Located at 5801 Aurelius Road, between Jolly and Miller Roads in Lansing the complex will be utilized
for youth recreational soccer, adult leagues and tournaments.
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RECREATION INVENTORY
Lake Lansing Park - South, Ingham County
Lake Lansing Park—South contains 30 acres and is located at the northeast corner of Lake Lansing and Marsh
Roads in Meridian Township. The park is formerly the site of a popular amusement park. The old carousel
building was preserved and remains on location. The park is very popular during the warm months because of
its sandy swimming beach. Overcrowding is typical during warm weekends with swimmers and boaters.
Currently, the County Parks Department owns and leases out the house at the southwest end of the property.
Access to the picnic shelter is paved and also handicap accessible.
Existing facilities include: a amphitheater/band shell, beach and bath house, horseshoe pits, pedal boat rental,
picnic grounds and shelters, playgrounds and tricycle track, shuffleboard courts, snack bar, volleyball courts,
and ice fishing.
Lake Lansing Park— North, Ingham County
Lake Lansing Park— North consists of 410 acres of land and is operated by Ingham County Parks Department.
It is located to the northeast of Lake Lansing in Meridian Township, with a majority of the park lying north of
Lake Drive. Only a small boat launch links Lake Lansing Park— North with Lake Lansing. A good portion of the
park is wooded upland consisting of mature oaks and maples. Much of the park is marshlands, consisting of
pine plantations and transitional field grasses.
Existing facilities include: softball diamonds, a boat launch, hiking trails and boardwalks, horseshoe pits, nature
study area, picnic grounds and shelters, playgrounds, volleyball courts, cross-country skiing and rentals, ice
fishing and winter warming lodge.
East Lansing Soccer Complex, East Lansing
The East Lansing Soccer Complex includes 7 full-size fields and one smaller practice field that are available for
use for soccer, field hockey, lacrosse, football, Frisbee, kickball, shelter, concession, restrooms and team
rooms. It is located at 3700 Coleman Road,just off Chandler Road in East Lansing.
East Lansing Softball Complex, East Lansing
The East Lansing Softball Complex includes 4 lighted ball fields that support softball, baseball and kickball. It is
located at 410 Abbott Road in East Lansing.
Alliance Lake Softball Complex, Potterville
Alliance Lake Softball Complex includes 4 lighted ball fields that support softball, baseball and kickball. The
complex is located southwest of Lansing in Potterville at 515 Alliance Drive.
Fitzgerald Park, Eaton County
Fitzgerald Park is a 78 acre park operated by the Eaton County Parks and Recreation Commission. It is located
at 133 Fitzgerald Park Drive, in Grand Ledge, along the Grand River and is on top of ancient sedimentary rocks
known as the "Ledges." The park offers picnicking, trails, a Nature Center, ball diamonds, volleyball,
basketball, horseshoes, a playground, and disc golf, sledding, and skateboard park. The park also rents canoes
and cross-country skis seasonally.
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RECREATION INVENTORY
Naturalist services are offered at the park, by the Eaton County Parks and Recreation Commission's Park
Naturalist, for civic groups, school groups, and any other organization. These services include presentations
on ecology (i.e. trees, plants, wildlife, and natural history).
Lincoln Brick Park, Eaton County
Lincoln Brick Park is historically named after the decade of brick production that once took place on the site.
The park is located just north of Grand Ledge on Tallman Road, one mile west of M-100 off State Road. The
park consists of 90 acres and is positioned just across the river from Fitzgerald Park. The park is composed of a
variety of habitats from woodlands and open meadows to over 6,000 feet of scenic river frontage. The park
provides pavilions and picnicking, a tot lot, nature trails, cross country skiing, fishing, archery range and
diversified wildlife. The park has proposed developments which would provide access across the Grand River
to Fitzgerald Park.
Harris Nature Center, Meridian Township
Harris Nature Center is a recently developed nature center located at 3998 Van Atta Road and is operated by
the Meridian Township Parks and Recreation Department. The center consists of over 200 acres of land
dedicated to promoting and interpreting the Red Cedar River and the surrounding ecosystems. The center
provides programs and exhibits intended to assist in the learning process. Renovated buildings and facilities
are used to complement hiking and nature observation opportunities. The nature center opened its doors in
the summer of 1997.
Woldumar Nature Center, Nature Way Association
Woldumar Nature Center was established in 1966 when a land donation of 177 acres was made to the Nature
Way Association; the governing body of Woldumar. It is located at 5539 Lansing Road, in Lansing, and
currently maintains 188 acres of land. The Nature Way Association is a private, non-profit educational
organization, providing outdoor education to 1,500 school children annually. Over 40,000 guests visit during
the same period. The nature center provides an educational trail system through woodlands, fields, prairie,
pine forests, orchards, and along the Grand River. There are over 5 miles of trails and at least 1 mile of river
shoreline.
City of Lansing 52
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RECREATION INVENTORY
PARKS, SCHOOLS, + RIVER TRAIL
> Design Lansing 2012 Comprehensive Plan
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City of Lansing 53
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RECREATION INVENTORY
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City of Lansing 54
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RECREATION INVENTORY
FUTURE LAND USE PLAN -
> Design Lansing 2012 Comprehensive Plan
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City of Lansing 55
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RECREATION INVENTORY
GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE INVENTORY
> Design Lansing 2012 Comprehensive Plan
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City of Lansing 56
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RECREATION INVENTORY
GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE CONCEPTS FOR CHANGE
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RECREATION INVENTORY
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PLANNING PROCESS
City Planning Efforts
The City staff began the preparation of their five year recreation plan in April of 2014. Utilizing their in-house
staff of professional recreation planners, landscape architects, engineers, and operations staff, they looked at
what was accomplished over the past five years and what they were looking to accomplish in the next five
yea rs.
The Parks staff routinely follows up with participants in their recreational programs to get user feedback.
Input varies from parents who have children in the soccer program to children who were involved in the
annual Kids Camp. Data gathered from these follow-up surveys was used in the development of this plan.
Other City departments such as the Public Service, Transportation, and Property Management work on
planning efforts of their own. In 2015, the Transportation Department will be updating the Non-Motorized
Transportation Plan. This plan focuses on the City's non-motorized bike lanes, paths, and trail systems
including the River Trail. The Parks Department and Transportation Department continue to work together to
develop the City's non-motorized path system.
Neighboring Communities
Delhi Township— Delhi Township borders the south side of Lansing. The Township, Ingham County and
Lansing have had discussions about creating a non-motorized connection from the Township, to the Kenneth
Hope Soccer Complex owned by the city of Lansing, but leased to Ingham County and to the Lansing River
Trail. The Township adopted a Non-Motorized Transportation Plan in 2007 and has implemented a portion of
the Plan to Willoughby Road, 1 mile south of the Kenneth Hope Soccer Complex. In 2014, the Township
completed a significant trail connection to the Lansing River Trail. The Township trail segment begins at the
southeast corner of Jolly Road and Aurelius Road,just across the street from Maguire Park. It travels along the
Sycamore Creek for almost two miles to where the creek crosses under 1-96.
Delta Township— Delta Township borders the west side of Lansing. The Township has a Non-Motorized
Transportation Plan adopted in 2003 with proposed connections to Lansing on Willow Highway, Michigan
Avenue and near the intersection of Mt. Hope and Old Lansing Road.
East Lansing— East Lansing borders the east side of Lansing. They have been a partner in various projects with
the city of Lansing in the past including the River Trail, Ranney Skate Park and others. The Lansing Non-
Motorized Transportation Plan shows connections from Lansing to East Lansing in various locations.
Lansing Township— Lansing Township borders a portion of the north side of Lansing near Interstate 127 and
to the east between the north and south branch of the Grand River. The Township is currently undergoing a
revision to their Master Plan. The city of Lansing Non-Motorized Transportation Plan studies suggest
connecting to the Township in various locations.
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PLANNING PROCESS
Public Input Meetings
The Parks Board holds meetings on the second Wednesday of each month to discuss park business, events,
and other related topics. Beginning in May of 2014, they held a special five year recreation planning meeting
in conjunction with their regularly scheduled meeting where the public was invited to participate in the
development of goals and objectives for the five year plan.
Each meeting was advertised using social media (Facebook, Twitter) and the City Pulse newspaper. The Parks
Board, with the help of staff, developed the preliminary goals and objectives; there were a total of six goals
developed. The meeting minutes from each meeting are attached in an appendix to this document.
Surveys
The Leisure Services division of the Parks Department is responsible for the planning and programming of all
recreational activities for youth and adult including, but not limited to: fitness, sports, arts & culture, dance,
therapeutic recreation, special events, after school programs and summer camps. The Leisure services
division also oversees the use and upkeep of four community centers, a historical mansion, two outdoor pools,
and several athletic fields.
Program Surveys
Part of the programming process includes following up with those who use the facilities and participate in the
programs. The recreation staff administers between 10-20 surveys per year, after some programs like their
Kids Camps in the summer, and after every major event such as the Mayor's River Walk, Concerts in the Park,
or the Daddy Daughter Dance.
Data gathered from these surveys directly reflect the goals set by the department, as well as how to direct
millage funding. For example, following the Kids Camps this summer, of those surveyed 91% rated the
programs very good to excellent. 90% of the parents surveyed said that the program met the needs of their
children. Of the 13 activities provided at the Kids Camps, the parents rated all of them good to excellent, and
when asked to rate the staff, 97% of the responses were either very good or excellent.
Recreation Opinion Survey
A recreation opinion survey was made available from November through January on the Parks and Recreation
website and Facebook page. The survey, with a link, was also advertised in the City Pulse.
One-hundred and eleven surveys were collected. The results represent people in all wards of the community.
The complete survey results are in the appendix.
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PUBLIC INPUT
Expansion and Funding for Park Facilities
The majority of people said that they want the City to expand the park facilities and would support a millage
to fund the expansion. The most popular response was to continue to improve and expand the River Trail
system. Other popular expansion suggestions were recreational programs for senior citizens, canoe and
kayaking programs or opportunities, and swimming or aquatic activities.
Qi.i The City of Lansing has a Park Millage
(one mill or $1.00 per $1,000 taxable
property value). The funds generated are
used for capital improvements, leverage for
grant funding, operations and maintenance
of recreation faoilities.Will you continue to
support this millage If yes, do you feel the
Park Millage should fund the following:
Answered:III Skipped:0
Maintenance
only{such a...
Capital
improvements...
Operation only
(Le....
Maintenance
and capital...
All of the
above
I do not
support the...
0% 10 20 30% 40% 50 130% ;0% 80% 90% 100
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PUBLIC INPUT
Facilities
The majority of people indicated that they think there should be more nature-based recreation facilities such
as trails and natural areas/preserves. The top five choices for facility expansion were trails, natural areas,
public gardens, nature centers, and playgrounds.
05 Which parks and recreation facilities
would you like to see expanded? (Check all
that apply)
Answered:114 Skipped:l
Trails
Community
Centers
Athletic Fields
Playgrounds
Pools
Dog Park
Golf Courses
Skate Park
BMX Track .
Boat Launch
Access
Natural Areas
Nature Centers
Public Gardens
Mountain Biking
Other(please
specify)
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 130% 70% 80% 90% 100%
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PUBLIC INPUT
Satisfaction
Overall, people were satisfied with the existing condition of park facilities and were not limited by their
location. Most of the limitations were from time constraints or awareness of what is available.
06 What barriers, if any, inhibit you or a
member of your household from using
Lansing's park facilities? (Check all that
apply)
Answered:94 Skipped:17
100%
80%
60%
40%
20%
0%
Parking Transpo Accessi Limited Awarene Distanc Lack Not No
rtation bility time ss eta & interes barrier
parks leisure ted s
part...
Q13 How well do you think the City of
Lansing maintains the park facilities?
Answered:III Skipped:0
100
80%
60%
40%
20%
0%
Good Fair Poor Don't know
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PUBLIC INPUT
Programming
The top three programs people participated in were special events, sports and fitness, and aquatic activities.
They also identified various programs they would be interested to see in the future, and other programs they
participate in with different providers, both public and private.
5 Year Master Plan Goals-Leisure Services Division
Q7 In which Lansing Parks and Recreation
programs do you participate?
Answered:111 Skipped:D
Aquatics
(Recreation...
Creative Arts,
Crafts,...
Dance
Community
Center Open...
Seniors '
Special Events
(ex.Common...
Sports and
Fitness(ex....
Therapeutic 1
Recreation...
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Answer Choices Responses
Aquatics(Recreation Swimming,Swim Class,Fitness) 14.41% 16
Creative Arts,Crafts,Cooking,Theater 6.31% 7
Dance 4.50% 5
Community Center Open Activities(ex open gym,game roam,basketball,volleyball) 7.21% 8
Seniors 3.60% 4
Special Events(ex Common Ground,Jaa Fest,Holiday Events) 7347% 82
Sports and Fitness(ex.youth baseball,adult softball,aerobics,etc) 28.83% 32
Therapeutic Recreation(Inclusive recreation for people with disabilities) 3.60% 4
Total Respondents:111
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PUBLIC INPUT
Use and Barriers
The students selected the top three parks they use and why they use those parks. The majority chose a
particular park because it was close to their home and offered a place to hang out. The main barriers that
prevent them from using the parks were transportation, distance to parks or they just weren't interested.
Q2 For what reason do you use these
parks? (Check all that apply)
Answered:770 Skipped:?
100%
80%
60%
40%
20% Ilia
0%
Park 1: Park 2: Park 3:
Close to hoine —Picnic Shefter Athletic Fields i Walking Paths
Playground Natural Resources 0 Other
Q6 What barriers, if any, inhibit you or a
member of your household from using
Lansing's park facilities? (Check all that
apply)
Answered:94 Skipped:17
100%
80%
60%
40%
20%
0%
Parking Transpo Accessi Limited Awarene Uistanc Lack Nut No
rtation bility time ss a to of interes barrier
parks leisure ted s
part...
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PUBLIC INPUT
Park Board Meetings
The Park Board discussed the Parks and Recreation Master Plan at 6 board meetings. These were regularly
scheduled meetings, and were also advertised to gather public input on the Plan. The meetings were held to
get updates on the Plan, review data gathered through public input meetings, and provide comments on the
Plan through various stages of its development.
City Council Committee on Public Services
After the draft Plan was available for review and prior to the public hearing before City Council, the City
Council Committee on Public Services held 2 public input meetings. They were advertised through a press
release for public input on the Parks and Recreation Master Plan. The Consultant and Parks Department
clarified items in the plan and also made revisions to the Plan to address question and concerns. The following
revisions were made to address those concerns.
Public Hearing
Park Board —A public hearing was advertised and held before the Park Board on February 11, 2015.
City Council —A public hearing was advertised and held before the Lansing City Council on February xx, 2015.
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GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
Background
In order to develop the recreation goals, the Lansing Parks and Recreation Department and the Park Board
evaluated all of the information gathered throughout the planning process. The evaluation was based upon
physical characteristics, demographics, input from the citizens who live in the City, stakeholder interviews and
other planning efforts in the city and region. All of the information gathered was evaluated and used to
develop the general goals and objectives for the Recreation Master Plan.
Many goals and objectives were identified through the process. They are numbered for ease of discussion and
do not reflect any particular priority. (Note to self: Double check this list and phrasing with the list in the
Exec Summary)
I. Naturalization and Ecology Management
A. Identify potential natural areas in parks by creating 'no mow' zones in areas that are currently not
used for active recreation.
B. Partner with Michigan State University and Fenner Nature Center to protect against invasive species
that may currently exist within our parks.
C. Identify current natural areas throughout the city for acquisition.
D. Identify and maintain natural areas for wildlife.
E. Minimize impervious areas on new projects.
F. Remove existing paved or otherwise impervious surfaces no longer being utilized within the parks.
Rationale:
The city of Lansing is fortunate to have an extensive parks system that includes several properties with
large open space or natural areas, or both. For many of these parks, the past practice has been to mow
the open spaces. In an effort to minimize increasing labor costs, and to work towards better
stewardship of the environment, the city decided to allow a few select areas to grow as 'natural areas'.
The results have been very favorable, leading to a greater push towards this practice in other parks.
II. Tree Conservation, Planting, and Replacement
A. Protect the existing tree population through proper care and pruning.
B. Install new trees where space and activities provide.
1. Create program for neighborhood associations and other groups to purchase trees for planting
within the parks.
2. Work with the Board of Water and Light (BWL) to assist with their tree planting program.
3. Using the BWL model, work towards educating the public on the value of trees in the landscape.
4. Plant appropriate trees in lowland areas within parks to help promote storm water management
best practices.
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GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
C. Replace damaged or dying trees in parks.
Rationale:
The value and benefits that trees bring to the landscape are countless. According the website
Canopy.org some of the most relative benefits when it comes to parks are air cleaning, climate
cooling, water filtration and retention, and wildlife habitat. Some more specific benefits
include:
• Providing inviting and cool areas for recreation and relaxation
• The color green is calming and relieves eye strain
• People walk and jog more on shady paths (and streets), which encourages interaction
with neighbors and improves the sense of community
• Trees absorb and block sound, reducing noise pollution by as much as 40 percent
III. Access to rivers and river management
A. Install universally accessible canoe/kayak launch at Cherry Hill Park
B. Promote "blueways" similar to how trails and greenways are promoted
C. Identify erosion problems along the Grand River, Red Cedar River, and Sycamore Creek. In
particular, areas adjacent to the River Trail. Work with city staff to determine necessary repairs.
D. Protect and restore riparian buffers along rivers and creeks
E. Establish plans with the help of volunteers to remove trees and brush from the waterways
F. Plan special events that promote river related recreation activities
G. Provide access to the Baker Donora Center from the nearby River Trail
Rationale:
The river bodies in Lansing are such an important part of the overall recreational landscape. The city is
fortunate to have both the Grand River and Red Cedar River flowing through the heart of the city, and
adjacent or through several parks. The Sycamore Creek is also a highly utilized resource which connects
south Lansing to the Red Cedar River near Potter Park Zoo. The city has done a wonderful job at
providing water-based recreation opportunities and hopes to continue that long standing tradition. In
addition, the Parks Department realizes the importance of the rivers as natural resources and wants to
do their part to manage them and the adjacent ecosystems properly.
IV. Create Parks Foundation
A. Establish 501c3 Friends of Lansing Parks group
B. Apply for grants specifically offered to 501c3 groups
C. Advocate for Parks and Recreation Department programs
D. Organize fundraising events to raise money for Parks projects and services
E. Organize volunteer driven Parks projects
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GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
Rationale:
There are many recreation grant opportunities available only to non-profit organizations. Likewise, it is
more advantageous for donors to contribute to non-profit organizations.
V. Non-motorized trail use
A. Update the Lansing River Trail map including new links to the South Lansing Pathway and the Delhi
Township trail
B. Create off-road biking and hiking trails through Fine, Fulton, and Hunters Ridge parks
C. River Trail extension
1. To the north to connect to the Delta Township path
2. From Moores Park to Riverside Park
3. From Frances Park to Grand River Park
Rationale:
The city of Lansing has an extensive non-motorized trail system. The nationally recognized River Trail
currently has over ten miles of paved trails connecting north, south, east, and west Lansing. Three
parks—Davis, Frances, and Hunter—have paved trail loops within their boundaries. These loops are all
about one mile long and get used frequently by the nearby residents. Of all of the opportunities
available to the residents, the walking paths continue to be one of the most popular assets, so the city
wants to look for ways to provide additional opportunities and locations for trails.
VI. Diversify Recreational Opportunities
A. Hold discussions with current park users to identify new recreational trends
B. Reach out to faith based organizations via the Mayor's Office of Faith Based Initiatives
C. Work with local school districts to develop more athletic teams
D. Reach out to the refugee community and other potential new users to determine recreational needs
E. Expand athletic fields, courts, and play surfaces to meet growing needs of youth and adult recreation
Rationale:
The City's diverse ethnic population brings with it a need to expand beyond the more traditional
recreational programs offered by the Department.
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ACTION PLAN
Introduction
The action plan was developed as a way to identify how the City intends to meet the goals and objectives set
forth in Recreation Master Plan in the next 5 years. The actions are not listed in any particular order. The
basis for the following actions are consistent with information gathered through the Parks and Recreation
Survey, public input meetings, interviews, city-wide planning efforts, demographic data, land use trends and
recreation master plans of adjacent communities. All projects will be subject to the availability of funding
through the Lansing Park Millage, general fund and the approval of the Lansing Park Board, Mayor and City
Council.
The action plan is divided into two separate focus areas including the Capital Improvement Schedule and
Planning Projects. Development projects that were identified as meeting the Recreation Master Plan goals and
objectives, are grant eligible, and capable of being completed in the next five years, are included in the Capital
Improvement Schedule. Master plans, studies and marketing strategies that meet the goals and objectives
and will be funded through the park millage, general fund and partnerships are included on the Planning
Program.
The Parks Department cares for parks by allocating funds to different scopes of work. The Department goes
through an annual budgeting process where funds are allocated to planning, neighborhood park renovations,
repair and maintenance, and capital improvement projects that are grant eligible. For example, every year
funds are allocated for improvements and maintenance of five to six neighborhood playgrounds. These items
are not included in the Capital Improvement Schedule of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan because they
are typically repair/maintenance projects, are smaller projects that can be funded through the general fund or
park millage, or they are not eligible for MDNRE grant funds.
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ACTION PLAN
The items identified in the Capital Improvement Schedule meet Goals & Objectives as follows:
Location Project Goal
To be determined Acquisition of park land along the river or with contiguous park land I-C
Davis & Quentin Improve youth ball fields VI-E
To be determined Construct canoe and kayak launches along the river III-A
To be determined Construct an outdoor basketball complex VI-E
To be determined Connect River Trail to Red Cedar River V
Ferris Park Construct small artificial turf soccer field VI-E
To be determined Construct youth football complex VI-C
River Trail Extend River Trail from Moores River Drive to Riverside and Grand V-C
River Parks
River Trail Extend northern route to Delta Township V-C
To be determined Located two splash pads at two park locations to be determined VI-E
Bear Lake Extend River Trail towards MSU campus V-C
River Trail Extend River Trail from Frances Park to Cambridge Road V-C
City wide Maintenance and Sustainability of Neighborhood Parks I, 11, IV, V,
and VI
Capital Improvement Project Descriptions
Acquire Park Land —The Parks Department is always looking for additional property to acquire or purchase to
improve the offering of facilities and activities to the public. There are areas along the River Trail where the
City would like to extend it, but are unable to do so because they don't own the property needed.
Davis Park and Quentin Park— Davis and Quentin are two parks that provide youth baseball and softball
fields. Both facilities have aging fields, backstops, and bleachers that need to be improved.
Canoe and Kayak Launch — Lansing has one lake, two rivers, and one creek that offer great canoeing and
kayaking experiences. There are currently eight locations where one can put in and take out a boat. Both
activities are becoming popular. Based on feedback gathered from the surveys, both canoeing and kayaking
are activities that the residents want more access to.
Outdoor Basketball Complex—The proposed development will include an outdoor basketball facility
including: paving, lighting, parking, basketball goals, fencing and team benches. The facility will support the
city-wide use of the park and may be used for pick-up games and to host basketball camps and small
tournaments.
River Trail Connection to Red Cedar— In anticipation of the redevelopment of the old Red Cedar golf course,
the Parks Department would like to connect the River Trail to the new development by extending the current
trail to the northeast, behind the Kircher Ballpark.
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ACTION PLAN
Ferris Park—Similar to the indoor soccer experience, the Parks Department is looking to construct an outdoor
soccer field at Ferris Park with side boards, solar powered lights, and artificial turf. This field would be open
for both youth and adult soccer games
Youth Football Complex—The Parks Department would like to create a youth football complex with perimeter
fencing and bleachers. There are two locations currently being considered for the placement of this complex.
River Trail, Extend Northern Route to Delta Township—The existing River Trail ends on the northwest side of
Lansing at Dietrich park. The proposed extension would run to Tecumseh Park and connect to Delta
Township's non-motorized system. Delta Township has a non-motorized transportation plan that includes a
connection to Lansing in this location. The proposed project includes: boardwalk, bridges, paved trail, signs,
benches and trash receptacles.
River Trail, Moores River Dr. to Riverside Park to Grand River Park—The existing River Trail stops at Moores
Park located in the southeast corner of ward 4 and starts back up again at Frances Park in the southwest
corner of ward 4. The proposed route would run from Moores Park to Riverside park and then across the river
to Grand River Park. A future connection could run from Grand River Park to Delta Township. The proposed
project would include: boardwalk, a bridge, paved trail, way finding signs, benches and trash receptacles.
Splash Pads—The City is currently exploring placing up to two splash pads throughout the park system. City
staff is working towards determining the best location.
Bear Lake—The River Trail currently terminates at a point near Cavanaugh Road. The City would like to work
with the city of East Lansing and Michigan State University to extend the trail from that point into campus.
River Trail, Frances Park to Cambridge Road —Completing this segment of the trail would allow those who live
in the subdivision surround Frances Park to walk safely to Frances Park, the France Overlook, and to connect
to the Waverly Road Path, which leads to the newly constructed River Trail South Extension.
City wide Maintenance and Sustainability of Neighborhood Parks— In addition to the annual allocation of
funds for park maintenance and improvements, these funds will be set aside specifically for Neighborhood
Parks. The intent is to locate matching funds to increase the dollar value that can be allocated to these types
of projects.
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ACTION PLAN
INSERT CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT SCHEDULE
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APPENDIX
Meeting notice— Public meeting#1
� I �
OTtCE 4p PI1f3LfC IIEARIh{G
PARK BOARD MEeeT11M 3
40TICE IS HEREBY GIVEN ttt a puplrc Hearing will be held at Fester Community Center located Zoi of 240 N.1 aster Avenue,Roam 21 i on May 1 d,2094 at S QO p.m.for the purpose of consddar ng �
gnats for the 2075-2020 Par}(a 5-Year Master Plan. This meeting volf focus on receiving puddle input $g
on the first goal of the plan-NATtjRALtZATION AND ECOLOGY MANAGEMENT L
Ali interested persons are inv ted B
Lansing parks and Recreatton,2W N.Fastel,A� heanng or submit written comments to ap
ue,Ion or
Michigan 48912 t�
BRETT KASCHINSKE,DIRECTOR,PARKS AND RECREATION C'
CP0144_11S CC!
CITY OF tANSING Pa
INC"-AM COUNTY,MICRIGAN {
The City of Lansing itl
13—field RedevelvpmentAuthori Sit
1s now accepting
PUBLIC COMMENTS `+
on the
PROPOSED AEATEMENT 0FASgESTC$-CONTAINING MATERIALS
ON THE SLgLpING
lorated at 4000 NORTH GRAMS RIVER AVE..Lansing,Michigan
The City of Lansing SnOwnheld Redevelopment Authority(LSRA)is recommending that asbestos-
containing materials ba abated during the dernolltiorn 0f the but+ding at 4600 North arand River �
Avenue to support site redevelopmeRL
Copies of a Community 1nvdvement Plan,,Analysis of Brownfield Cleanup Allematives,and other
related documems will be available during regular business hours for review at:
Lansing Brownfield Redevelapmen Authorty
1UGO S-VMshinglon Avenue,Suite 201
Lansing MT 48910
The administrative retard,which contains the information upon which the flnar decision wi0 be bmS®d,
is available.for revrew at the location listed above,
Written comments on the referenced documents may bo submitted from April 30,2014 to
May 20,2014 to;
P
}Carl Dorshimer.
Lansing Brownfield Redeveroprnent Avtharily
t000$.Washington Avenue,&Re 201
Lansing MI 48s10
(51T)702.3UTX210
e main:kerb@purelarrs{ng.com
� CP#t4 176
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APPENDIX
2015-2020 MASTER PLAN
MEETING NOTES
Foster Community Center
May 14, 2014
MEMBERS PRESENT: Adam Hussain, Olivia Martin,
MEMBERS ABSENT: Rick Kibbey, Patricia Spitzley, Paul Holland, Patricia Pisano
OTHERS PRESENT: Brett Kaschinske, Parks and Recreation Director;Joe Wright, Public Service, Landscape
Coordinator; Kellie Brown, Board Secretary
CALLED TO ORDER: 6:05 p.m.
Brett Kaschinske stated this is the first of 6 meetings to discuss the Master Plan goals. One goal will be discussed at each
meeting. The meetings will be held one hour prior to the regular scheduled Park Board meetings on the second
Wednesday of each month.
The meeting notice was advertised by the following means: paid notice in City Pulse, City of Lansing Parks web site,
Facebook, E-newsletter, media PSA, and schedule sent to City Council and City Clerk's office. Contact will be made with
Lansing Neighborhood Council asking them to distribute to neighborhood groups.
Joe Wright stated this meeting is to discuss the first goal on the Master Plan which is Naturalization and Ecology
Management. Wright provided the following list of objectives:
Naturalization and Ecology Management
A. Identify potential natural areas in parks by creating "no mow"zones in areas that are currently not used
for active recreation.
B. Partner with Michigan State University and Fenner Nature Center to protect against invasive species that
may currently exist within our parks.
C. Identify current natural areas throughout the city for acquisition.
D. Identify and maintain natural areas for wildlife.
E. Minimize impervious areas on new projects.
F. Remove existing paved or otherwise impervious surfaces no longer being utilized within the parks.
Rationale: The city of Lansing is fortunate to have an extensive parks system that includes several properties with large
open space or natural areas, or both. For many of these parks the past practice has been to mow the open spaces. In an
effort to minimize increasing labor costs, and to work towards better stewardship of the environment, the city decided to
allow a few select areas to grow as "natural areas". The results have been very favorable, leading to a greater push
towards this practice in other parks.
Wright stated the first objective is to create "no mow" zones such as the one at Washington Park. Kaschinske stated
there have been a number of other areas over the years such as Ingham Park, Davis Park, Ormond Park, Pleasantview,
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APPENDIX
Ranney (hill area), and south end of St.Joe Park. St.Joe and Ranney, as well as Waverly and Red Cedar have been
mowed for the hay.
Wright inquired if these parks have signs identifying the natural area similar to the sign at Washington. Kaschinske
stated no. Washington Park was in a forested area ravaged by Emerald Ash and cutting down the trees allowed for the
natural area. The natural succession takes time to look natural and not just neglected.
Adam Hussain inquired if there was an effort to partner with a group for Washington. When this was originally being
discussed, he thought it was introduced as a potential pilot program but it was already being implemented. He thought
there was an effort to plant non-invasive species to beautify the area or did this just occur. He recalls a heated
discussion on whether this was truly a naturalized area or just a "no mow" zone.
Wright stated it appears there was something planted and if not, it was truly a natural succession.
Kaschinske stated the only managed natural area is Fenner which is where invasive species are pulled,there are active
volunteers, and some plantings are done. What this goal is talking about is "no mow" areas and letting nature take over.
We do get requests from professors to go into our parks and do projects for specific species removal.
Wright stated objective B is to partner with MSU and Fenner to remove invasive species, which sounds like it is already
being done. Will objective B continue the partnership or formalize the partnership.
Kaschinske asked if this goal could be combined with the Parks Foundation to create an active friends group to plant
trees and remove invasive species. However it would need to be under MSU and Fenner's guidance to remove species.
Hussain stated when he first saw the layout it appeared certain pockets of the city had an over concentration of these
"natural" areas. He understands there is a demand, but not everyone likes the way the areas look and there needs to be
an effort so every part of the city is getting a fair share of the "naturalized" areas otherwise the message it sends it bad.
Wright stated the message needs to be improved so people understand why this is being done. When he first saw
Washington Park he could not understand it, and as a park designer the first thing he thought was safety and the
inability to see through the park. Once it was explained he understood why it was done.
Kaschinske stated the natural areas were not mapped out by ward.
Hussain stated if you look at the sites it appeared the parks were concentrated in impoverished areas.
Kaschinske stated whole parks were not "naturalized", only sections. There may still be opportunities in parks with
difficult areas to mow such as hillsides.
Hussain stated he has another concern about placement near schools, such as Pleasantview and it could create safety
issues and will that possibility be considered.
Kaschinske stated there have been issues at Pleasantview, but it is an issue with an all-terrain vehicle. In this instance, it
would help if the vegetation was stronger in the park. One of the things you hear with "no mow" zones and longer
vegetation is crime; however in talking with Chief Yankowski the crime is not any different from houses close together
and any other obstacles.
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APPENDIX
Olivia Martin commented it appears there has been a lot of"naturalization" and is there a plan to do more.
Kaschinske stated there is over 2,000 acres of park land and we mow between 600 and 700 acres. This takes into
account parking lots, playgrounds, ponds, buildings, etc.
Kaschinske stated there is not a concentrated effort to add more "no mow" zones at this time. The city's mowing cost at
this time is relatively low compared to when this program was started.
Martin stated the parts of this goal that make a lot of sense is E and F on the list which could be combined if the wording
is changed.
Wright stated they really could not be combined because E refers to new projects, such a Crego and F refers to existing
properties. Anytime new things are developed E should be considered and F would refer to current situations such as
old basketball courts, shuffleboard courts, etc. that are not in use and may be removed.
Wright inquired about objective C.
Martin stated it makes sense, especially along the river.
Kaschinske stated we have always identified river front property for acquisition. Wright stated he understands and will
reword it.
Hussain inquired if objective C is to guard against potential development on the river front. Wright stated it is to
increase the river trail; Martin mentioned blue trails also. Kaschinske stated it is also for land adjacent to current park
land.
Wright reviewed objective D and inquired if there is something specific.
Kaschinske stated he does not know if it fits in this or not. There is a problem with wildlife in the area of Mt. Hope and
Aurelius. Neighbors have discussed the issue, especially about the number of deer.
Martin inquired how the deer management program is working in Meridian.
Kaschinske stated what has been seen in the statistics so far is that they have not turned the corner. Feedback is
positive from the residents; however car/deer accidents continue even with the kill numbers increasing.They are able to
provide meat for the food bank system.
Martin inquired if the process is expensive.
Kaschinske stated outside of the costs for staff time there are no supplies that he is aware of.
Wright stated if there is a natural area,you preserve it but do not maintain it and maybe the word maintain should be
changed to preserve.
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APPENDIX
Kaschinske stated Crego is an example because the lake will need to be managed for fishing, such as stocking or not
allowing anyone to take out bass to keep.
Wright verified objectives E and F paved areas not being used should be removed. Hussain and Martin agreed.
Meeting adjourned at 6:30 p.m.
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APPENDIX
Meeting notice— Public meeting#2
PUBLIC3
ND710E OF PUOUC NEARENG
PARK 1130A D MEETING
i
NiICE lS EREOY GIVEN that a PUDGc.H anng Will bits h& !*Iw Cornmunaty Center lobated
at 2fl0 N.FbstierAvpn Fioarh 2.17,on June 11,2014..at$:00 P. i.1gl..the purpose.pf.cgpstder'
goals far the 2018:20�0 Parks.5-Year Masterl Plan.:This meeh will f.dus.owrecoiving public Input
an the second i coal af'Ihe pian-TREE CONSERVATION,PLANTING,AND REPLACEMENT
All interested Persons are ins ltLd to attend this public hearing of submit written cammenu to
Lansing Poks and Recreatlon;200 M. Foster Avenue, Lansing,Michigan 48912
BREP7r KA$CHINSXE, DIRE TOR,PARKS AND RECREATION-4K-40 F
CP#14 137
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APPENDIX
2015-2020 MASTER PLAN
MEETING NOTES
Foster Community Center
June 11, 2014
MEMBERS PRESENT: Adam Hussain, Paul Holland, Patricia Pisano
MEMBERS ABSENT: Rick Kibbey, Patricia Spitzley, Olivia Martin
OTHERS PRESENT: Anita Beavers; Brett Kaschinske, Parks and Recreation Director; Kellie Brown, Board
Secretary
CALLED TO ORDER: 6:18 p.m. by Adam Hussain
Kaschinske advised board members the meeting notice was advertised by the following means: paid notice in
City Pulse, City of Lansing Parks web site, Facebook, E-newsletter, and media PSA. It was also sent to Lansing
Neighborhood Council and Allen Neighborhood Center asking them to distribute to neighborhood groups.
Kaschinske stated this meeting is to review the second goal of the Master Plan which is Tree Conservation,
Planting, and Replacement.
F. Protect the existing tree population through proper care and pruning.
G. Install new trees where space and activities provide.
1. Create program for neighborhood associations and other groups to purchase trees for planting within
the parks.
2. Work with the Board of Water and Light (BWL) to assist with their tree planting program.
3. Using the BWL model, work towards educating the public on the value of trees in the landscape.
4. Plant appropriate trees in lowland areas within parks to help promote storm water management best
practices.
H. Replace damaged or dying trees in parks.
Rationale:
The value and benefits that trees bring to the landscape are countless. According the website
Canopy.org some of the most relative benefits when it comes to parks are air cleaning, climate
cooling, water filtration and retention, and wildlife habitat. Some more specific benefits
include:
• Providing inviting and cool areas for recreation and relaxation
• The color green is calming and relieves eye strain
• People walk and job more on shady paths (and streets), which encourages interaction
with neighbors and improves the sense of community
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APPENDIX
• Trees absorb and block sound, reducing noise pollution by as much as 40 percent
1. Create program for neighborhood associations and other groups to purchase trees for planting within
the parks.
Hussain stated most municipalities have a street planting program. Could there be an online application for
residents to complete and get on a list for this type of program
Kaschinske stated the Westside Neighborhood recently did a large tree planting program and there were some
individuals who rejected the tree.
Holland stated they planned 5 days to dig holes and plant trees and it only took 3 days. Westside
Neighborhood partnered with the City and also made cash contribution toward the city's tree fund. The city
marked sties; residents dug the holes and agreed to care for the trees.
Holland stated he would like to have a plan in place for every neighborhood association to participate in a tree
planting program. He would like "and right of ways" added to item #1.
Kaschinske stated he would like himself, Adam and Paul to sit down with the Forestry division and maybe
Board of Water and Light to work on a program for residents to work with city and BWL to plant trees in the
city.
2. Work with the Board of Water and Light (BWL) to assist with their tree planting program.
Kaschinske stated the city has worked with BWL in the past and with this past winter storm there is an
additional focus on tree trimming. Joe Wright mentioned at the last board meeting that BWL has a tree
planting program where they give away trees. Kaschinske stated he would find out more about the program
and included them in the neighborhood discussion.
3. Using the BWL model, work towards educating the public on the value of trees in the
landscape.
Kaschinske inquired if Holland or Hussain used this when they planted trees in their neighborhoods. Holland
stated he is not aware of the BWL model. Kaschinske commented it may be about where is the tree going to
go in regard to power lines, what type of species is best for the area, and planting a diversity of species.
Holland stated it is good to piggy back off BWL, but in terms of a stated goal in a Master Plan he would strike
"using the BWL model" and say "educate the public on the value of trees in the landscape and provide the
proper planting and care information and techniques".
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APPENDIX
Kaschinske inquired how this would be done. Holland stated Forestry provided guides from the U.S. Forestry
Services on how to care for your backyard tree and our Forestry Department has pamphlet. It seems like we
could combine the two to create a one page pamphlet with the necessary information. This could be put on
the website.
Anita Beavers recommended working with someone who has knowledge of trees and to plant slow growing
species with less aggressive root systems.
4. Plant appropriate trees in lowland areas within parks to help promote storm water
management best practices.
No comments or changes
C. Replace damaged or dying trees in parks
Kaschinske reviewed the rational on this.
Holland inquired if there could be similar language including right of way as we did in B, so it would read
Replace damaged or dying trees in parks and along right of ways.
Hussain inquired if it is the plan to replace on a one to one basis. Kaschinske stated yes.
Holland stated in the rational could the word countless be innumerable; and the term most relative he is
thrown off by; and instead of "some more" use the word additional.
Holland also would like to see under C some facilitation with the City to assist with the cost of removing
stumps, such as a group rate for the neighbors, providing a reasonable contractor and work with the
neighbors.
Kaschinske inquired if this could be C, 1. Holland stated yes.
Hussain inquired what the language for C1 is; Kaschinske stated "Create a program for neighborhood
associations and other groups to work to remove stumps within right of ways and in parks"
Anita Beavers stated with issues such as these, that having a parks staff person visit and discuss these matters
at neighborhood group meetings to explain what the costs are for tree and stump removal, the equipment
necessary, liability issues, etc that neighbors may be more receptive to helping out.
Beavers stated the Colonial Neighborhood Association has small committees within the association, such as a
garden committee, to take care of different areas of the neighborhood.
Kaschinske inquired if there was an agreement with the City on this. Beavers stated no.
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APPENDIX
Hussain stated he has concerns with agreements, such as the community gardens, when leadership changes or
neighborhood demographics change, who keeps up with the terms of the agreements and who is held
accountable.
Kaschinske stated he has an example of what Adam referred to. At Potter Walsh there is a sign with blocks
around the sign and sometime ago it was hit by a vehicle. This is an example where he does not know the
history and whose responsibility it is. It turns out that it was a project by Martin Block, which is next door,
they donated the blocks and a neighbor laid the blocks. The neighborhood is now asking the city to replace
the sign, but there is nothing written about maintenance and upkeep.
Beavers stated Colonial Neighborhood has about 1,400 homes and total annual donations are about $500 to
$700 to pay for projects. If larger projects need to be done they ask for additional donations of$5 or $10.
Beavers recommended board members and Parks Director attending annual picnics have a booth to present
plans. She also recommended working with BWL to look at state grants and Arbor Day funding sources.
Kaschinske stated once this plan is in place, he will work with the Lansing Neighborhood Council on getting the
information to neighborhood groups.
Kaschinske stated he would get information from Paul Dykema, City Forester, regarding tree grants, what we
have done in the past and what we can do now. He will send the information to board members and Anita.
Meeting adjourned at 7:10 p.m.
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APPENDIX
Meeting notice— Public meeting#3
NOTICESPUBLIC
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING w
PART(BOARD MEETING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Public Hearing will be held at Faster Commun ity Center located at
200 Tel.Foster Avenue,Room 211, ❑n July 9, 2014 at 6:00 p.m.for the purpose of considering goals
for the 2015•202D Parks 5-Yeer twister Plan. This meeting will focus an receiving public input an the
third goal of the plan-ACCESS TO RAVERS ANQ RIVER MANAGEMENT
All interested persons are invited to attend this public hearing or subffA wri3ten comn*nts to Lansing
Parks and Recreation,20D N.Foster Avenue, Lansing,Michigan 48912
BRETT KA-CHINSKE,DIRECTOR,PARKS AND RECREATION-4B3-4D42
�#14 169
City of Lansing 84
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APPENDIX
2015-2020 MASTER PLAN
MEETING NOTES
Foster Community Center
July 9, 2014
MEMBERS PRESENT:
MEMBERS ABSENT: Rick Kibbey, Patricia Spitzley, Olivia Martin, Adam Hussain, Paul Holland, Patricia Pisano
OTHERS PRESENT: Eve Brown; Brett Kaschinske, Parks and Recreation Director; Kellie Brown, Board
Secretary
CALLED TO ORDER: 6:15 p.m.
Kaschinske stated this meeting is to review the fourth goal of the Master Plan which is Access to Rivers and
River Management:
A. Install universally accessible canoe/kayak launch at Cherry Hill Park
B. Promote "blueways" similar to how trails and greenways are promoted
C. Identify erosion problems along the Grand River, Red Cedar River, and Sycamore Creek. In
particular, areas adjacent to the River Trail. Work with city staff to determine necessary repairs.
D. Protect and restore riparian buffers along rivers and creeks
E. Establish plans with the help of volunteers to remove trees and brush from the waterways
F. Plan special events that promote river related recreation activities
Rationale:
The river bodies in Lansing are such an important part of the overall recreational landscape. The city is
fortunate to have both the Grand River and Red Cedar River flowing through the heart of the city, and
adjacent or through several parks. The Sycamore Creek is also a highly utilized resource which connects
south Lansing to the Red Cedar River near Potter Park Zoo. The city has done a wonderful job at
providing water-based recreation opportunities and hopes to continue that long standing tradition. In
addition, the Parks Department realizes the importance of the rivers as natural resources and wants to
do their part to manage them and the adjacent ecosystems properly.
Eve Brown stated she was from the Sycamore neighborhood which is located on the river and they are
concerned with flooding and flood insurance.
Kaschinske inquired if she received something from the Emergency Management Department.
Brown stated the flood in '75 only made it up to the windows of homes. Flood insurance does not cover water
coming in from basement only from river or street. She feels the cost of flood insurance will affect home
values and the City should be concerned of the effect on the city as a whole because so much of the city is on
or near the river.
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APPENDIX
Meeting notice— Public meeting#4
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PARK 130ARQ MEETING
NOTICE iS HEREBYOKMN that a Pubda HearirQ Mill be held at Fcst@r'.Cohirn4il-ty Center Iocatad.at
200 N.Fgal�arAvenue,R066 21.9,ah September.10,2014 at 6 00 p.m.for%a purpose-of consMrlhg
'9pals7or'!ha 9015.2o20 Pattcs 5-Year hl'aeter Plan. This me4ting wilt focus on rsceiuing p019C input
aar#`re faPCh-goal of the plate-'CREA'IMO A PAIMS FOUNDATION
Au Interg9ed pera s are inv tad to attend this puhlic.hearing a;sufxnit wrltw.,q cammerit�to Lansing
Paria and Recwtion,200 V-Faster Avenue,.Lansing,Michigan 48912
I -1513 .KASCHINS1tE,DIRl=CTOF,MRKSANDRECREATION-4QX404Q
t #IC 212
City of Lansing 86
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APPENDIX
2015-2020 MASTER PLAN
MEETING NOTES
Foster Community Center
September 10, 2014
MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Olivia Martin, Adam Hussain, Paul Holland, Rita O'Brien
MEMBERS ABSENT: Veronica Gracia-Wing
OTHERS PRESENT:Brett Kaschinske, Parks and Recreation Director; Kellie Brown, Board Secretary; Deanna
Swisher, Friends of Reutter Park; John Krohn, Fenner/Land Bank
CALLED TO ORDER: 6:10 p.m.
Kaschinske stated this meeting is to review the Fifth goal of the Master Plan which is Create a Parks
Foundation:
5. Create Parks Foundation
A. Establish 501c3 Friends of Lansing Parks group
B. Apply for grants specifically offered to 501c3 groups
C. Advocate for Parks and Recreation Department programs
D. Organize fundraising events to raise money for Parks projects and services
E. Organize volunteer driven Parks projects
Rick Kibbey stated what had started this idea originally was during the past 5 years of budget crisis and
what could be done to supplement the level of activities we had. There were other issues and contracting
services took care of some of those. There were a lot of programmatic ideas that were in need of a friend
and there were a couple of things that were added in; which would be the sale of Red Cedar and we
wanted a way to ensure the funds from the sale of parks would go back into parks and the other discussion
was to build a closer relationship with park users and park neighbors.
Rick Kibbey stated he did some research and contacted a couple of friends groups that have created
foundations and the roles they have in the park system.
The first thing that needs to be done is create by-laws for the foundation to proceed to becoming a 5016.
Articles of Incorporation need to be filed and an employer ID number.
Applying for grants is also necessary. There are three ways to do this which are; foundation grants, grants
within the governmental process such as city, county and state and the third is fund raising by the
foundation.
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APPENDIX
Rick Kibbey stated the tree project recently done in the Westside Neighborhood has appeal and is a
project that has a beginning and an end, it is fairly succinct, is transferrable to almost any neighborhood,
has modest financial requirements and modest administrative requirements. There are a number of
friends' organizations throughout the city that are doing very good work.
Rick Kibbey asked the Board where we should be on this and does this seem like a good idea and what
aspects are most appealing.
Olivia Martin stated the most appealing aspect for her is that it will be a 501c3 and is a place to gift to
parks for charitable donations, when donations cannot come to the department.
Brett Kaschinske stated you can donate to the City however you do not get the exemptions as you do with
a 501c3 and the difference of gifting to government and gifting to a 501c3 makes a difference to people.
Olivia Martin stated the other thing is organizing the Friends of the Parks and projects; having shovels
available or an individual available who a neighborhood association could go to for planning and organizing
an event. Also, having a standard practice for groups would be valuable.
Brett Kaschinske stated when a neighborhood group comes to the City and wants to do an event in a
certain park; it is a calling of people in. Usually not involving fees, but for groups the City requires
insurance which neighborhood groups and organizations do not have. One of the things, through the
foundation, does it fit under an overall umbrella for the neighborhood activities that we want to see in the
park. However, who carries the liability for the bounce house, vendor or whatever is in the park and could
the friends group be an umbrella.
Rick Kibbey stated when this project first started he put together an 8 page memo asking the questions the
City had to answer before we could proceed. The first question was how we draw a line so when
individuals know when they are responsible for insurance or they can work under the foundation. An
example would be a group of volunteers working with chainsaws.
Brett Kaschinske stated we have an answer for that. At Fenner volunteers are allowed to use chainsaws,
but they need to go through training, safety and certification course.
Rita O'Brien clarified the current neighborhood groups would be incorporated into the foundation and the
foundation would be the host.
Paul Holland stated the foundation would be a friend of friends group so the current groups remain as
they are, but the foundation is a source of information, best practices and groups could be added as a rider
for events.
Paul Holland stated what interests him is a composition of the board for the foundation; he would like to
see at 15 or 16 member board and all Park Board members would be on the foundation board.
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APPENDIX
Deanna Swisher stated as a member of Friends of Reutter Park when she was asked to lead the group her
immediate thought was that she did not want to be held personally responsible. If you have properly
organized and documented 501c3 your By-laws and Articles will include the magic language that will
provide a liability shelter for individuals and groups trying to do good things. If you look at board
membership for the friends of friends to include the people who preside over each of the individual friends
group then you have given them some structure.
Brett Kaschinske inquired if under the goals if anyone has any issues with A through E or if there are any
additions.
5. Create Parks Foundation
A. Establish By-Laws
B. Establish 501c3 Friends of Lansing Parks group
C. Apply for grants specifically offered to 501c3 groups
D. Advocate for Parks and Recreation Department programs
E. Organize fundraising events to raise money for Parks projects and services
F. Organize volunteer driven park projects
G. Clearing house for insurance and technical assistance to neighborhood friends groups
H. Matching grant funds required of community groups
Rick Kibbey inquired if park board members would like to have all park board members on the foundation
board, one member or a number of members.
Rita O'Brien, Olivia Martin would like to see all members as part of the foundation board; Adam Hussain
would like to see all members if the park board can maintain consistency on the park board with full eight
members. Hussain is also in full support of the foundation as long as the increased organization funds and
resources are viewed as supplement and not to replace any current funding. This should be a way to take
the parks above and beyond and not stay status quo.
Brett Kaschinske stated the Friends of Lansing River Trail has recently formed and it has gone well. This
started with a letter to the Mayor thanking him for the River Trail and an article in the State Journal. At
the inception, there were hundreds who said they wanted to be friends and the board was formed by
going through the list and considered the people with specific area of employment such as attorney,
marketing, fund raising, web site design graphic artist, and pulled from this list to form the board. Do we
want to form the foundation board based around someone who has a specific background?
Paul Holland stated this is a great way to do it to create a professional board, but the river trail is
something that is throughout the city and if we are looking at a parks foundation we would need rotating
representation. However, we would not know neighborhood organization presidents backgrounds.
Rick Kibbey stated those functions are essentially done for pay and it would be easier to solicit someone to
donate services to a project than to ask them make a commitment to be on the board. The other way is to
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APPENDIX
have an advisory board who may meet twice a year and an administrative board. The type of board would
need to be resolved before the by-laws can be submitted.
John Krohn stated he likes the idea of involving volunteers and the possibility of training them to use
equipment to perform larger tasks. He also indicated he would be interested in joining the park board.
Kaschinske stated he would get an application to him.
Meeting adjourned
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APPENDIX
Meeting notice— Public meeting#5
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City of Lansing 91
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APPENDIX
2015-2020 MASTER PLAN
MEETING NOTES
Foster Community Center
October 8, 2014
MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Adam Hussain, Rita O'Brien, Veronica Gracia-Wing
MEMBERS ABSENT: Paul Holland
OTHERS PRESENT: Brett Kaschinske, Parks and Recreation Director; Kellie Brown, Board Secretary; Brian
Baer; Debbie Mikula, Arts Council of Greater Lansing; Amy Valleau, Paul Johns, Moores
Park Neighborhood Association; Dwight Washington.
CALLED TO ORDER: 6:10 p.m.
Kaschinske stated this meeting is to review the Fifth goal of the Master Plan which is
Non-motorized trail use
G. Update the Lansing River Trail map including new links to the South Lansing Pathway and the Delhi
Township trail
H. Create off-road biking and hiking trails through Fine, Fulton, and Hunters Ridge parks
I. River Trail extension
1. To the north to connect to the Delta Township path
2. From Moores Park to Riverside Park
3. From Frances Park to Grand River Park
Rationale:
The city of Lansing has an extensive non-motorized trail system. The nationally recognized River Trail
currently has over ten miles of paved trails connecting north, south, east, and west Lansing. Three
parks—Davis, Frances, and Hunter—have paved trail loops within their boundaries. These loops are all
about one mile long and get used frequently by the nearby residents. Of all of the opportunities
available to the residents, the walking paths continue to be one of the most popular assets, so the city
wants to look for ways to provide additional opportunities and locations for trails.
Rick Kibbey provided new board members some background how the master plan originated and the purpose
of the plan.
Communities around the nation are using pathways in various ways. One element is trails along water and
trails which connect parks.
Rick Kibbey provided copies of the green infrastructure framework consisting of potential natural resource
areas and greenway links.
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APPENDIX
Brian Baer stated his concern about maintenance especially wooden structures and with the expansion will
there be money for repair.
Brett Kaschinske stated the south Lansing extension is all pavement. On the November ballot there will be a
countywide initiative and it will speak to funder the river trail because it is viewed as a regional asset.
The Friends of Lansing River Trail was recently established. One of their objectives is maintenance and fund
raising. We are also looking at sponsors adopting areas to clean up and maintain.
Adam Hussain inquired, as a parks department, what drives our decisions and what determine what is
removed such as ball field, backstops, etc.
Brett Kaschinske stated quality or condition of the field, amount of use and what we program, along with open
play use. Also review and request by the public is considered.
Brett Kaschinske inquired if board is ok with this goal.
Non-motorized trail use
A. Update the Lansing River Trail map including new links to the South Lansing Pathway and the Delhi
Township trail
B. Create off-road biking and hiking trails through Fine, Fulton, and Hunters Ridge parks
C. River Trail extension
1. To the north to connect to the Delta Township path
2. From Moores Park to Riverside Park
3. From Frances Park to Grand River Park
Rationale:
The city of Lansing has an extensive non-motorized trail system. The nationally recognized River Trail
currently has over ten miles of paved trails connecting north, south, east, and west Lansing. Three
parks—Davis, Frances, and Hunter—have paved trail loops within their boundaries. These loops are all
about one mile long and get used frequently by the nearby residents. Of all of the opportunities
available to the residents, the walking paths continue to be one of the most popular assets, so the city
wants to look for ways to provide additional opportunities and locations for trails.
Current River Trail map is outdated and we are looking to redo the map. Would we want to continue with
individual park walking trails on the back or only the main River Trail. Should rules and guidelines for the trail
be included.
Rick Kibbey inquired about the paths within the cemeteries.
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APPENDIX
Veronia Gracia-Wing clarified if there were two parts to the question; one is if we are interested in including
on the map the south Lansing trail and the loops within the parks.
Brett Kaschinske stated first do we need a map and if we do want do we want to include.
Rita O'Brien asked if it could be a larger map and stated she likes the individual park trails. Kaschinske stated
yes.
Rita O'Brien would like to see full park system map. She would like to see better location recognition, maybe a
comprehensive map with what the parks have to offer, similar to the Be a Tourist booklet.
Brett Kaschinske stated we have looked at naming the branches to correspond with the city areas.
Adam Hussain inquired if we have looked at other cities and their trail maps.
Rick Kibbey asked to get maps from other cities to use as examples.
Brett stated traditionally this has been put out for an RFP.
Rick Kibbey stated this could be a class project for college students.
Brett stated item B on the goal list is being looked into now. Item C is part of the next steps for Public Service.
If there are not objections, these items will remain in the plan.
Veronica Gracia-Wing inquired if we have an understanding of how hikers and bikers get along. Kaschinske
stated yes; what do not get along are motorized vehicles with hikers and bikers.
Brett Kaschinske inquired if we should include language for mile markers and signage along the trail; the
county wide millage or the county taking over maintenance of the trail.
Rita O'Brien stated item D should be added for mile markers and destination spots along the trail.
Veronica Gracia-Wing wants to be mindful to accommodate not just English reading individuals.
Adam Hussain recommended directions to major roadways be included on the map.
Rick Kibbey stated there were two parts, maintenance and do we want to put a lot of extra on the trails and
the second is to navigate the trail with phones, GPS and technology.
Veronica Gracia-Wing would like to see in A and the addition of D to include non-traditional ways to
accomplish those goals. Does the master plan include a general section on messaging and communication or
is that not part of this master plan.
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APPENDIX
Brett Kaschinske stated it can be part of the master plan, but it is not one of our goals at this time.
Brett Kaschinske stated the county maintenance language will be addressed at the November meeting after
the election.
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