HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-Park Rec Master Plan 2026-2030 RES 2025-313 'M1M1 jj �N ... ''
On
Y� 4
Tp�
'&` "', "'.'?� -
L e �' vc `}: E pt Yxrk i w ly
�r re �j'A h� •per �,�t���� t •,�{�+��Y�"+1� ,�,� .,,, }
��. r .FS�'f' - q" { ��"• �� ,,: ra
. ��! ! v �L. � .,AY Fit ti "T Y i'+ay• t.St if '�; ..rsL"�. ,�;�Y.. .n. .
�'¢',MT..
r" c ,{`iy
jj
k a.
I �-', ;fir-ti ,, ` " `•,y
Y y !f w
al.
n
H
�9
PARKS AND RECREATION
MASTER PLAN 12026 - 2030
Approved by Lansing City Council 12/15/2025
The City of Lansing's Parks and Recreation Master Plan, 2026 - 2030,was a cooperative
effort by the City of Lansing, the Lansing Parks and Recreation Department, Park Board
members and the citizens of Lansing.
Z
CITY OF LANSING MAYOR PARKS AND RECREATION W
Andy Schor, Mayor DEPARTMENT
Brett Kaschinske, Director of Parks and
Recreation
Emily Stevens, Leisure Services Manager
r)
CITY COUNCIL PARK BOARD UJ
Ryan Kost,1st Ward Mike Dombrowski,1st Ward
Jeremy A. Garza, 2nd Ward Rick Kibbey, 2nd Ward
Adam Hussain, 3rd Ward Isaac Francisco, 3rd Ward
Brian T. Jackson, 41"Ward Kimberly Whitfield, 41" Ward
Jeffrey Brown,At-Large Nate Scramlin, At-Large
Peter Spadafore,At-Large Tirstan Walters,At-Large O
Tamera Carter, At-Large Joan Lenhard, At-Large
Trini Pehlivanoglu,At-Large Ravynne Gilmore,At-Large Z
V
PLANNING DEPARTMENT PLANNING COMMISSION U
Rawley Van Fossen, Director John P. Ruge - 1st Ward
Shane Muchmore - 2nd Ward
Anthony Cox - 3rd Ward
Josh Hovey- 4th Ward
Katie Alexander - At Large
PUBLIC SERVICE DEPARTMENT Monte Jackson -At Large
Timothy Klont - At Large
Ted O'Dell -At Large
Andy Kilpatrick, Director
PREPARED BY:
City of Lansing Parks and Recreation P h
Department
City of Lansing, MI 48933 r'
www.lansingmi.gov
WITH ASSISTANCE FROM: ff
Spicer Group, Inc
�I t
www.spicergroup.com
Project#: 136177SG2024 Croup ANDYSCHOR, RAFT
01 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ............................................................................1 Ln
MISSIONSTATEMENT...........................................................................................................................................................3
INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................................................................................3
ACCOMPLISHMENTS FROM 2020 - 2025 ..............................................................................................................4
02 COMMUNITY PROFILE ...........................................................................9 ui
ABOUT THE CITY OF LANSING .......................................................................................................................................11
DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS ..............................................................................................................................................12
NATURALFEATURES .........................................................................................................................................................15
PLANNING INITIATIVES ....................................................................................................................................................17 O
03 ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE ...........................................................19 u
ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE OF THE CITY OF LANSING .............................................................................21
MISSION AND ROLES OFTHE PARKSAND RECREATION DEPARTMENT.............................................22
RELATIONSHIP WITH OTHER AGENCIES, DEPARTMENTS,AND ORGANIZATIONS ..........................25 LL
POLICIES .................................................................................................................................................................................28 O
FUNDINGAND BUDGET.................................................................................................................................................28
04 RECREATION INVENTORY ...................................................................31 w
INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................................................................................33
PARKLANDINVENTORY .................................................................................................................................................33
TRAILS........................................................................................................................................................................................51 m
COMPAP ISON TO STAN DARDS.....................................................................................................................................54 1..1..1
ACCESSIBILITY......................................................................................................................................................................56
DNRGPANT HISTORY.....................................................................................................................................................60
NON-CITY OWNED RECREATION OPPORTUNITIES IN LANSING .............................................................66
SCHOOLFACILITIES...........................................................................................................................................................67
REGIONAL PARKS AND RECREATION FACILITIES .............................................................................................68
PROGRAMINVENTORY ....................................................................................................................................................71
CITYOF LANSING EVENTS .............................................................................................................................................72
05 COMMUNITY INPUT................................................................................75
OVERVIEW..............................................................................................................................................................................77
SURVEY....................................................................................................................................................................................78
OPENHOUSES.....................................................................................................................................................................82
SUMMARY...............................................................................................................................................................................85
06 GOALS, OBJECTIVES, &ACTION PLAN ...........................................87
INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................................................................................89
GOALSAND OBJECTIVES ..............................................................................................................................................89
ACTIONPLAN ......................................................................................................................................................................92
07 PLANNING PROCESS .............................................................................95
APPENDIX ........................................................................................................99
A.COMMUNITY INPUT RESULTS.................................................................................................................................101
B. WATER TRAIL MAPS .....................................................................................................................................................X
C. ADOPTION DOCUMENTATION ...............................................................................................................DR FT
■ee
�� vaq. :.ae �►
�'^ - fie . ��� �► _ �
�r
o:MEN
will •eane 2n i it y14
_ Mo 11 ( '4
lam
1.01
ad I
ne nm nn
—_ :�y■ nm.w rye !;iI 1
AM
TM TM
MONTH an '��r
1"19
- - - - ���i��������� ��irO�i®mil■ 1"i'��.
owl
s
DRAFT
01 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the Parks and Recreation Department is to enhance the quality of life and
maintenance of parklands, the provision of quality leisure time activities, and the provision of
special facilities which would otherwise not be available to Lansing residents.
INTRODUCTION
The 2026 - 2030 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 five 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 complied from the
following sources:
1. Input from the citizens of Lansing
Online survey
Open houses in each Ward
30-day public review period
Public meeting at Park Board to review full draft of the Plan
Public hearing at City Council
2. Collaboration with other City planning efforts including:
The City-Wide Master Plan
The Non-Motorized Transportation Plan
The AARP Age Friendly Community Plan
Middle Grand Water Trail Development Plan
Red Cedar Water Trails Planning Efforts
Tri-County Regional Trails Feasibility Plan
3. Evaluation of:
Demographics
Natural features
Parks and recreation trends
4. Data compiled from previous Recreation Plans and City Policies
Er
ft 11
I
I 1
1
..,aLS'T.L:dW � _,A4s'.Cr..� s 'i3k � ue� u tA�Rk �.Sd:ilia;. _�s'!.a`u��'�,✓a.a�.e�mA.E`. .9a"�6ae' '- a"' " � �
v r r3
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
ACCOMPLISHMENTS FROM 2020 - 2025
PARK M I LLAG E
Over the past five years, the department has been able to accomplish programmatic and capital
improvement goals from 2020 - 2025 Parks and Recreation Master Plan, largely due to the
successful renewal of the Lansing Park Millage.The Department has been successful in using
millage funds as a match for State and County grant funding.The following is a partial list of the
projects that have been funded with the millage and grant funding from 2020 - 2025.
RIVERFRONT PARK - Riverfront Park grand opening of Play Michigan!, the region's first universally-
accessible playground to meet the needs of children with physical, sensory, and developmental
disabilities. Includes parking lot with 26 ADA spaces and a cantilevered deck over the Grand River.
WASHINGTON PARK - Washington Park was renamed Stabenow Park after Debbie Stabenow.
Stabenow was the first female U.S. Senator, a seat she has held since 2001.The pavilion was
updated and relocated in the park for better access, art panels were installed along the pathway,
and a new outdoor fitness court was installed.
MOORES PARK POOL - Received $6.2 million dollars in state funding for the restoration of Moores
Park Pool. Construction began with June 2024 with Rhino Construction opening June of 2026.
FULTON PARK OVERLOOK - After being destroyed by fire, Fulton Park Overlook was rebuilt at the
cost of$113,000 with an inlaid map of the Grand River, benches, and a bike repair station.
GIER PARK - A $100,000 pump track with two tracks for different skill levels and accessibility was
installed at the BMX track at Gier Park.
SYCAMORE CREEK DISC GOLF COURSE - Opened the new Sycamore Creek Disc Golf Course
which has seen 1,165 rounds scored, 356 new players,19 first time players, and 1,701 hours tracked
for the months of September and October. Estimated players that have visited the course since
September is over 600 with the most rounds played by one person as 24.
CLIFFORD PARK - Clifford Park tennis courts were resurfaced and painted for 6 pickleball courts
and 1 tennis court at the cost of$264,000.
Frances Park Rose Garden - Frances Park Rose Garden added ADA accessible, bridal walk,
benches, and paved handicapped parking. DNR Passport grant helped the redesign of rose beds,
planter's colonnade, irrigation, and drainage.
BEACON PARK - ADA wheelchair swing installed at Beacon Park, a gift from Peckham Advocacy
Group.
TURNER MINI PARK - Installed new pavers at Turner Mini Park that eliminated trip hazards and
added a new concrete ADA sidewalk and ADA picnic tables.
SYCAMORE CREEK DRIVING RANGE - New agreement with Fenner to expand nature studies for
pre-school at Sycamore Creek Driving Range.
GIER COMMUNITY CENTER - Provided Gier Community Center on two separate occasions as a
homeless shelter during Covid-19 in cooperation with Holy Cross. DRAFT
4
01 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
CITY HALL PLAZA - Installed an opened a 3,000 square foot synthetic surface skating rink with
lights at City Hall Plaza purchased by Our Community Foundation.
REUTTER PARK - A 45x80 foot concrete pad was placed at Reutter Park in cooperation with
Downtown Lansing Inc. for the Kringle market and ice skating rink. CADL provided the ice skates
for this program.
REUTTER PARK - Installed "people's park" art on the northeast corner of Reutter Park in partnership
with LEAP.
DURANT PARK -A 25x15 foot stage was placed at Durant Park in partnership with the Friends of
Durant Park.Total cost of construction was $59,521.
HUNTER PARK -A new bike repair station for Hunter Park was purchased and installed.
LEISURE SERVICES BOARD - Combined community center boards to create one Leisure Services
Board to serve all of Lansing.
BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD - Received donations of items from Blue Cross Blue Shield to enhance
centers and reduce costs:
- Four large planters that line the Schmidt Center entrance
- Four square tables that line the Schmidt Center game room
- Large locking cabinet for E-Sports room for Letts Center
GIRLS RED CEDAR VOLLEYBALL PROGRAM - Completed our first, full season in the Girls Red Cedar
Volleyball program with a 4th grade team.
TRAILER CAMERAS - Purchased 4 portable trailer cameras connected to an LPD video system.
GIER COMMUNITY CENTER -Added cameras to Gier Community Center.
FISH LADDER MUSIC PARK - Construction of Fish Ladder Music Park at Brenke Fish Ladder was
completed in the fall of 2025.
LANSING COMMUNITY COLLEGE BASEBALL TEAM - Worked closely with Lansing Community
College in transitioning their men's baseball team to Kircher Municipal as their new home ballfield.
Improvements were made to the dugout and other areas of the field.
LETTS CENTER - Letts Center gym was resurfaced for indoor tennis play, providing more grip to the
flooring.
DRIVE THRu HALLOWEEN EVENT - Increased attendance to the Drive Thru Halloween event from
167 cars to 489 cars serving an estimate of1,500 children with 24vendors handing out candy.
GIER CENTER - New tenant at Gier Center, KCS Angels, rents space and provides Therapeutic
Recreation Activities to the community.
PLAY PATROL - Mobile Rec Unit, named "Play Patrol" by social media voting, received vehicle
wrapping and is being utilized at different City events and will visit area parks throughout the year.
DRAFT
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
PLAY EQUIPMENT - Finished installation of new play equipment in 13 playgrounds: Comstock,
Dunnebacke, Foster, Hillborn, Hull Court, Ingham, Oak Park, Riverpoint, Schmidt,Tammany, Waldo,
Walsh, Stabenow, and Fulton.
HUNTER PARK - Installed a new pool liner at Hunter Park pool.
FERRIS PARK - Installed a Teqball Table at Ferris Park.Teqball is a ball sport that is played on a
curved table, combining elements of sepak takraw and table tennis. Back and forth,the players hit
a football with any part of the body except arms and hands.
MOORES PARK - Moores Park Pavilion was stabilized using MDOT riprap placed on the slope for
restoration due to damage from stormwater runoff.
LEISURE SERVICES
Provided swimming lessons to 16 students in the Lansing School District Bilingual Program.
December 2020 held the first annual HOLIDAY NIGHTS OF LIGHTS drive-thru 13 day event at
Frances Park on weekends in December (Fri-Sun). Event had 4,120 visiting vehicles during hours
of operation with at least 2 people per vehicles and continued today.
Schmidt Community Center opened a Refurbished Game Room featuring an original mural
designed by Emily Farrell.
Increased revenue in aquatics by192% and 724% in senior programs.
Increased aquatics staff by 222% by providing staff development for head lifeguards and
managers,jointly coordinating additional training for exposure to bloodborne pathogens and
Michigan Mandated Reporters to aquatic staff and summer camp staff.
The Water Safety Fair was held in conjunction with the Lansing Police Dive Team and
the Lansing Fire Department to promote water safety in and around the water. CPR
demonstrations were available, dive gear was presented, instructions for escaping a submerged
vehicle were given, and lifejackets were handed out.
Hunter Pool was a host site for the 15th Annual World's Largest Swim Lesson. Held in June,this
event is a global program to help communities build awareness about teaching children to
swim.
Partnered with 9 local businesses and organizations to put on the 7th Annual Summer
Scavenger Hunt, benefiting over 30 Lansing area residents.
Opened an eSports room at Letts Community center,which is currently open 4 nights a week
for the public to use.
Switched all leagues to age based.This helps create consistency and increases the likelihood
that players are at the same stage in development.
Began tracking coaches background checks in Rec Track to verify they are done once a year.
Youth fall soccer enrollment was up 10%.
6 DRAFT
01 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Youth basketball numbers were up 50%.
Youth floor hockey enrollment was up 87%.
VOLUNTEERS
Michigan Waterways Stewardship organized two major river cleanup sessions (June and
September), resulting in 811 volunteers,3,042 volunteer hours, and removal of 39,683 pounds of
litter and trash and 40 cubic yards of trees and brush.
Friends of Cooley Gardens as a core group of 7 experienced gardeners helped us reach a total of
about 200 volunteer hours.
MSU students from CSUS 476 - Natural Resource Based Recreation and Management course
assisted in planting 25 trees at Sycamore Disc Golf Course.
RIVER TRAIL GRANTS - INGHAM COUNTY PARKS AND TRAILS MILLAGE
The Lansing River Trail was extended by 1.4 miles thru Bear Lake to Forest Road.This brings the
total connected River Trail to over 17 miles.
At Washington Avenue the scouring that took place at the bridge was repaired and the trail was
repaved from the bridge south to Hazel Street.
Bridge 9 by Moores Park Pool received repairs to the abutments and approaches.
Bridges 13, 14, and 15 from the entrance to the Potter Park Zoo to the west all received repairs to
the support system and stabilization of the bank to prevent failure.
Bridge 31 under Cesar Chavez is substantially completed with the span under Chavez coming in
the spring of 2022 and will be installed in under two weeks.
The River Trail was extended on the west side of the river along Grand Avenue from Saginaw to
Oakland Ave.
Red Cedar Trail Development was renovated thanks to Ingham County Parks Committee
providing millage funding for $995,000.
An 1,875 foot trail extension was constructed beginning at Cambridge Road to Frances Park.A
total of$1,395,000 was funded with assistance from Ingham County Parks and Trails Millage and
Michigan Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund.
A$220,000 wall repair and soil stabilization was completed at Mt. Hope Cemetery.
Bridge 18 near Kruger's Landing was replaced.
Bridge 21 between Crego Park and Clippert Street Trailhead was replaced.
Mother Tree Art was installed at Hunter Park funded by the Mayors Arts and Culture Grant.
DRAFT
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
GRANTS/AWARDS
FRANCES SHORELINE - $400,000 was received for the Frances Shoreline lot from the DNR Trust
Fund.
MOORES PARK - Concrete chess tables were installed at Moores Park with the Moores Park
Neighborhood Association Neighborhood Grant.
FOSTER PARK - Hammock poles and a volleyball court were installed at Foster Park with the
Frogholler Neighborhood Association Neighborhood Grant.
SCOTT SUNKEN GARDENS - Scott Sunken Gardens received the Community Landscape
Beautification Award from the Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association.
MT. HOPE CEMETERY - Fratcher Memorial Garden at Mt. Hope Cemetery installed a third wall with
the columbarium funds from Fratcher Foundation.
FULTON PARK -A new bike repair station for Fulton Park was purchased with the Lansing Eaton
Neighborhood Organization Neighborhood Grant.
MOORES PARK - Moores Park Pool was reconstructed with $6.2 million from the State of Michigan.
CEDARBROOK NEIGHBORHOOD - Cedarbrook Neighborhood received a Neighborhood Grant from
the Department of Neighborhoods,Arts, and Citizen Engagement for the purchase and installation
of a generation swing at the playground.
LEWTON RICH NEIGHBORHOOD - Lewton Rich Neighborhood received a Neighborhood Grant from
the Department of Neighborhoods,Arts, and Citizen Engagement for the purchase and installation
of a slide on the playground.
DAvIS PARK -A fitness court was completed at Davis Park with a National Fitness Campaign Grant
for $50,000.
NEIGHBORHOOD GRANTS - Parks that benefited from Neighborhood Grants are Poxson Park
with a new concrete chess table, Bancroft Park with new horseshoe pits, Scott Woods Park with
new grills, Beacon Park with ornate trash cans, and Foster, Gier, and Schmidt Parks with grants for
e-sports items.
RIVER TRAIL- $300,000 from Ingham County Parks and Millage and $400,000 from the DNR
Trust Fund was used to add 2 miles of River Trail connecting Fenner Nature Center and Corporate
Research Park.
8 DRAFT
Ll_�
._� I _A,
uj
coo
b �•
r
i
tt
try
�. •.�•A• � �'+F-�� —y �f - - , � •�� mil.
DRAFT
02 COMMUNITY PROFILE
COMMUNITY PROFILE
ABOUT THE CITY OF LANSING
The City of Lansing is located centrally in the state of Michigan.Two of the state's largest cities are
located within a one to two hour commute from the City. Grand Rapids is located to the west and
Detroit is located to the East.The City of Lansing is the state capital of Michigan and is home to
a number of state government buildings such as the Michigan State Capital building.The state
capital was moved from Detroit to Lansing in 1847 because of the City's central location in the
State.The City is broken down into four (4) political wards. Ward 1 is the northeast ward in the City,
followed by Ward 2 in the southeast, Ward 3 in the southwest, and Ward 4 in the northwest.
The City of Lansing has a strong student presence with Lansing Community College located just
north of the Downtown and Michigan State University located on the eastern border of the City
in the neighboring City of East Lansing. Lansing is primarily located in Ingham Countywith small
portions of the City extending into Clinton and Eaton Counties.The City of Lansing is bordered by
the City of East Lansing,the City of Dewitt, Dewitt Township, Delta Township, and Delhi Township.
Lansing Township is interspersed in pockets throughout the City. Lansing is the most populous
City in Ingham County and the sixth most populous city in Michigan.The City is comprised of
approximately 36 square miles of land, the majority of which has been developed with a few
exceptions such as parklands.
The City of Lansing contains substantial recreational opportunities with over 100 parks,
approximately 2S miles of trails, and is home to one Ingham County park. Other recreation
opportunities in the City include Potter Park Zoo and numerous public and private golf courses.
Three rivers flow through Lansing including the Grand River, the Red Cedar River, and Sycamore
Creek,which provide the City with additional recreational opportunities for both residents and
visitors.
Three major freeways run throughout
the City of Lansing. U.S.127 runs north
and south on the eastern border of
the City. Interstate 496 runs east and
west through the center of the City. ` r
Lastly, Interstate 96 runs east and west
through the southern portion of the
City. The Capital Region International i
an
Airport is located in the northern CI�E�I
portion of the City and offers flights
to larger airport hubs across the
United States and some international
flights. Public transportation in the
Cityis provided b the CapitaI Area = _ • r�ri� a._ �:
P Y
Transportation Authority (CATA).
DRAFT
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS
Information from the U.S. Census Bureau was used to analysis current demographic conditions
and trends within the City of Lansing.These demographics were further compared against Ingham
County and the State of Michigan to gain a better understanding of how demographic conditions
in the City compare to that of the region and state.This section of the plan will examine data such
as population trends, education, housing, and economic characteristics for the City.
The data presented in this chapter is from the 2023 American Community Survey (ACS) which
is based on 5-year estimates and compared to Census data from 2010.Table 1 provides a full
comparison for data for the City of Lansing, Ingham County, and the State of Michigan.
POPULATION FIGURE 1 - CITY OF LANSING POPULATION
According to the 2023 ACS,the City of Lansing
had a population of 111,269 people.This was a 2023 2010
2.65% decrease from the 2010 census,which POPULATION
recorded the City's population at 114,297
people.This loss in population is unlike the
County and the State which, had population
increases of1.33% and 1.55% respectively.This • •
loss in population poses different planning •
challenges than that of communities with
increasing populations.
In addition to looking at total population, examining a community's vulnerable populations is
critical. In 2023, 22.3% of the City of Lansing's population was under the age of18.This was similar to
the State which has 21.4% of the total population under 18 and slightly more than the County which
had 19.7%. For the percentage of the population ages 65 and older, the City of Lansing was at 13.1%
in 2023.This was about equal to the County at 14.6% and lower than the State at 18.2%.
EDUCATION
Education can be another factor to review. In the City of Lansing,18.3% of the population had a
Bachelor's Degree or higher in 2023.This was lower than both the County and the State which were
at 22.6% and 19.3% respectively.
INCOME
The median household income for the City of Lansing in 2023 was $55,197.This was lower than the
County ($62,998) and the State ($69,183). In 2023,the per capita income for the City of Lansing was
$31,559. Similar to median household income,the City's per capita income was lower than both the
County ($35,561) and the State ($38,952). The last income factor that is important for understanding
the needs regarding parks and recreation in a community is the percentage of the population that
is below the poverty line. In 2023,18.3% of the City's population was below the poverty line. This was
more than both the County and the State. Ingham County had 15.9% of the population below the
poverty line and the State had 13.5%.
12 DRAFT
02 COMMUNITY PROFILE
HOUSING
The last section of demographics to be reviewed for this Plan is that of housing. Based on the 2023
ACS,the City of Lansing had a household size of 2.08.This is comparable to the County (2.26) and
the State (2.39). The median housing value in the City in 2023 was $135,000.The County and the
State both had larger median housing values. Ingham County had a median housing value of
$202,000 in 2023 and the State of Michigan had a median housing value of$256,200. Lastly, the
percent of renter occupied housing units that in 2023 was 43.2% of the City of Lansing's occupied
housing units. In comparison, the percentage of renter occupied housing units for Ingham County
was 39.4% and the State of Michigan was 26.2%.
DEMOGRAPHIC SUMMARY
Based upon the analysis of some of the social and demographic characteristics in the City of
Lansing, a number of themes emerge.These themes should help the City when preparing goals
and objectives for the future of parks and recreation because they indicate the distinct recreation
needs within the community.
AGE
It is always going to be important to plan recreational opportunities for those both youngest
and oldest in the community.This ensures age is not a limiting factor in recreation.
Active recreation opportunities such as playgrounds and sports fields are often wanted and
used by those younger in age.
Community members older in age often participate in more passive or low-impact recreation
opportunities. Examples of these include walking and wildlife viewing.
The City of Lansing has a larger segment of the population who are young adults.
Approximately 20% of the population is between the ages of 20 to 29 and an additional 15%
of the population is between the ages of 30 and 39. It is important that the City provides
recreational opportunities not only for children and older individuals but also for these young
adults as they represent a substantial portion of the City's population.
INCOME
A factor that could limit the recreational opportunities that are participated in is income.The
City of Lansing has a lower median household income and a lower per capita income than that
of the County and State. In addition, the City has a higher percentage of the population living
below the poverty line than the County and State.
To ensure income is not a limiting factor to those who want to participate in recreational
opportunities, the City should continue to provide affordable recreational opportunities. City
parks,trails, and special events are often free to use to ensure all community members have
access to recreation regardless of income. In addition, the City offers scholarships to families
who may not be able to participate in recreation programming otherwise.
HOUSING
The City of Lansing has a larger percentage of renter occupied housing units, over 40% of its
units, than that of the County and the State.
Those who live in apartments or multi-family housing typically have limited outdoor space and
no yard of their own.This means that this group is more dependent on the parks and green
spaces provided by the City.
The City should continue to ensure recreation opportunities are dispersed throughout the City
to provide easy access to recreation for those who may need it.
DRAFT
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
TABLE 1 - DEMOGRAPHICS FOR THE CITY OF LANSING, INGHAM COUNTY, AND THE STATE OF MICHIGAN
CITY OF ♦NSING INGHAM COUNTY
POPULATION
2023 Population 111,269 284,637 10,037,261
2010 Population 114,297 280,895 9,883,640
• of Population Change -2.65% 1.33% 1.55%
• of Population 65 and Older 13.1% 14.6% 18.2%
% of Population Under 18 22.3% 19.7% 21.4%
Median Age 33.5 33.3 40.1
EDUCATION
% with a Bachelor's Degree or 18.3% 22.6% 19.3%
Higher
INCOME
Median Household Income $55,197 $62,998 $69,183
Per Capita Income $31,559 $35,561 $38,952
% of Population below the 18.0% 15.9% 13.5%
Poverty Line
HOUSING
Average Household Size 2.08 2.26 2.39
Median Housing Value $135,000 $202,000 $256,200
% of Renter Occupied Housing 43.2% 39.4% 26.3%
Units
r 3
WWI
rgn.f 6 v
d � �,�® z�, w�iN
,ArY`"°.y
_ a�►.�t,`;+� a @rear,,.� �• � �p�� � �-.-`e�
14
02 COMMUNITY PROFILE
NATURAL FEATURES
TOPOGRAPHY
The City of Lansing stays fairly consistent in elevation, with little change throughout the City. The
only areas that differ are those that lie on the Mason Glacial Esker.The banks of rivers and creeks
throughout the City have gradually sloping banks that rise between zero (0) and ten (10) feet.
MASON GLACIAL ESKER
An esker is a winding riverbank that formed upon,within, or beneath a glacier. As water traveled it
deposited silt, gravel, and sand along the banks. Once the glaciers melted the sediments that were
deposited along the banks remained forming the narrow, winding ridges known as an esker.The
longest esker in Michigan is that of the Mason Esker.The Mason Esker starts in Dewitt and runs
through Lansing, and Holt before ending in Mason.The Mason Esker was made predominately of
sand and gravel. Most of this has been removed and used to create highways and other roadways.
Only a few sections of the Mason Esker remain, such as a section that can be found in Bancroft
Park .
WOODLANDS AND WETLANDS
A natural features inventory is useful to recreation planning because it highlights existing
resources, showing where gaps may be located in the community. Oftentimes, areas of natural
features are chosen for future parkland and trail development. Natural features include areas such
as wetlands,water bodies, and wooded land. Woodlands and wetlands are valuable resources
especially for a more developed community.They provide areas for wildlife habitat in the City and
natural areas for stormwater infiltration.
The majority of the City is developed, leaving smaller scattered pockets of woodlands and wetlands
throughout the City.The largest section of this is located on the eastern side of the City south of
1-496.This section contains forested wetlands, deciduous forests, and evergreen forests, and is
home to the Fenner Nature Center and Crego, Shubel, Sycamore Creek, and Scott Woods Parks.
Another larger section of forested lands, deciduous and evergreen, is located on the western
portion of the City along the Grand River. In this area is Fine, Fulton, and Hunters Ridge Parks.
Another notable section contains forested wetlands and is located in the norther portion of the City
near the airport. Beyond these larger, notable sections of natural features many smaller sections
can be found throughout the City.These areas often correlate with where parklands are located.
DRAFT
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
WATERWAYS
Lansing has two rivers and a creek that flow through the City. These include the Grand River, Red
Cedar River, and Sycamore Creek.The Grand River flows along the southwest border of the City
before entering the City just south of 1-496.The Red Cedar River joins the Grand River in the center
of the City before flowing northward through Downtown and then turns and flows westward back
out of the City.The Red Cedar River flows into the City at the City's eastern boundary near Michigan
State University.The river continues westward till it joins with the Grand River. Sycamore Creek
flows into the City along the southeastern boundary and flows northward.The Creek passes Hawk
Island County Park and a number of City parks or recreational facilities before joining the Red Cedar
River near Potter Park Zoo and Shubel Park.The City of Lansing owns lands abutting the rivers, that
serve as parkland for residents.This protects the sensitive environments from development and
ensures public access to these features remain.
In the City are a few small lakes.The City owns Fidelity Lake, which is located in Crego Park.This
lake was created during the construction of 1-127 as a borrow pit. In the northern region of the
City is Jones Lake.This lake is owned by the City and public access is available. Hawk Island Park,
operated by Ingham County, has a small lake with public access for swimming, fishing, and
boating. Similar to Fidelity Lake,this lake started as a borrow pit.The last lake is Bear Lake with no
public access provided and is owned by Michigan State University.
ry
UFA
ti
" ----
.d
16 DRAFT
02 COMMUNITY PROFILE
PLANNING INITIATIVES
To allow for cohesive, thoughtful development in the City, a few key planning initiatives have been
utilized. Information is shared between City departments to ensure everyone remains informed of
planning decisions. Additionally, the departments can share this information with their consultants
to allow for cohesion between the information and ideas presented in various planning documents
and encourage the continued shared vision for the City of Lansing.
Discussion in this section is related to key planning documents in the City. Some documents such
as the City Non-Motorized Transportation Plan will be discussed in the corresponding section
found on page Sl.
LANSING COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
In 2012 the Design Lansing Comprehensive Plan was adopted to guide development and the
future of the City of Lansing.This plan was based on five (S) policy sections called plan elements.
These plan elements are economic development, neighborhoods, green infrastructure,
transportation, and placemaking.
Currently, the City is in the process of creating a supplemental update to the 2012 Comprehensive
Plan. In this plan, the five (S) plan elements have been further refined to focus on social
development and includes the elements of economic opportunity, neighborhood accessibility,
sustainability and resiliency, mobility and safety, and community culture.These elements can be
seen reflected in the goals and objectives created in this recreation plan.
AARP AGE FRIENDLY COMMUNITY PLAN
The City of Lansing is a part -
of the AARP Network of
Age-Friendly Communities.
This program is designed to
emphasize the built and social
environment in a community
to enable residents to stay
in their community as they
age.These includes items
_ u �
6
such as walkable streets,
transportation options,
housing, and programs and
y_ n0im
activities for these residents.
These factors were taken into
consideration during the t
creation of this plan and in r
the goals and objective that
were created for parks and
recreation over the next five (S)
yea rs.
DRAFT
DRAFT
•t- ;r a .a 7• Y �` fi�* rt 1A \ 5?': a +' 1'
s r tom,
�!. C �°" esi"tf•:0..�'�p,�C �!%.' a. �' 4�{� i° .•. �'x_G t t�cR � �>=.a
` ►r f � �! r� f' 'C...r j't 1 s tee • , �kk �i
^��
� +�, 'T£ � �•w� � 1 E
�� � ,S��t _-• '� ',c♦ Cyr -;�
t i- p41 PrL ',t e r. �� P '* ` �Ou"C W
�� q�P"` •j'rd4 ��'�4���u• e���' � 4� r y�� aF,et .��-�� t�k*`• �,79.N
�V-A
ij�,,W' O;
ply
f.
- 'i -,_.:�',G••'4�, - �"e :•� tl9� Ti'��lfi +a2 ��, 5�,��,7,j. �'F S ti
41
ek
111A. .st
VV
LU
�rA' ma's M -+t -ate t. ; A C� •h�i ;�'�. ! '�r A 1
j��:. -r ;-,lw ;[ i �. kt.' -• « fir. _ f{ �:�
i
'� _ f � ,• ''i".� mil'- P•1 r � A�
rr - •Ww. Or
• _ _
- � 1=
R Pft
,, , `
��. � 03�/ '� y a• r 1. I i �.
! AFT
DRAFT
03 ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE
ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE
ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE OF THE CITY OF LANSING
EXECUTIVE BRANCH - MAYOR
In the City of Lansing, Article 4 of the City Charter establishes the executive branch of the
government. Within the Charter, it establishes the Mayor as the chief executive officer of the City.
The responsibility of the Mayor is designated as the implementation and administration of City
policy. A mayor within the City of Lansing is elected every four years. Currently the office is held by
Mayor Andy Schor, first elected in November of 2017 and then re-elected in November of 2021.
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH - CITY COUNCIL
The legislative branch within the City of Lansing is comprised of eight members who each serve
four year terms on the City Council. Of the eight members, four members represent each of the
individual political wards and fours members are elected at large.The current members of Council
are listed below.
1ST WARD Ryan Kost AT LARGE Jeffrey Brown
2ND WARD Jeremy A. Garza AT LARGE Peter Spadafore
311D WARD Adam Hussain AT LARGE Tamera Carter
4T" WARD Brian T.Jackson AT LARGE Trini Pehlivanoglu
ADVISORY BOARD - PARK BOARD
The Parks and Recreation Department is assisted by a citizen based board, the Lansing Park Board,
which serves the department in an advisory capacity. In Article 5, Chapter 1 of the City Charter
members of the Park Board have to be appointed by the Mayor and approved by City Council. Park
Board members serve four year terms. Similar to that of City Council, four Park Board members
represent each of the individual political wards and four other members are appointed at large.The
current members of the Park Board are listed below.
1ST WARD Mike Dombrowski AT LARGE Nate Scramlin
2ND WARD Rick Kibbey AT LARGE Tirstan Walters
311D WARD Isaac Francisco AT LARGE Joan Lenhard
4T" WARD Kimberly Whitfield AT LARGE Ravynne Gilmore
The Park Board meets every second Wednesday of the month at Foster Community Center at 6:30
p.m. During these meetings, a review of the progress and concerns of the department is conducted
and activities are reviewed to ensure all are held in accordance with accepted City policies.The
Board could additionally propose changes to the department's operations for the purpose of
making the department and programs 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. In addition, the
Board submits written recommendations concerning the proposal to the Mayor to go 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. Every year, the Board is required to prepare a written report evaluating the effectiveness of
the services provided and analyze the status of priorities for services and activities within the Parks
and Recreation Department.This written report must be completed prior to Dec DRAFT
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
MISSION AND ROLES OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION
DEPARTMENT
PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
The Department of Parks and Recreation creates community through people, parks, and programs.
The mission of the City of Lansing Parks and Recreation Department is to enhance the quality of
life through the preservation and maintenance of parklands,the provision of quality leisure time
activities, and the provision of special facilities which would otherwise not be available to Lansing
residents.The department of Parks and Recreation accomplishes this mission though a variety of
actions.These include:
Organization of youth, adult, and senior citizen recreational programming in parks, community
centers, schools, swimming pools, the nature center, and a 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;
Provision of special recreation facilities such as Ranney Skate Park, Soldan Dog Park, Gier Park
BMX Bicycle Track, Cooley Gardens, Frances Park Rose Garden,Adult Outdoor Fitness Facilities,
Strikeout Baseball, Beacon Soccer Field, and the Lansing River Trail linear park.
Sustaining working partnerships with the Lansing School District, Ingham County Parks,
Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, Michigan
Department of Transportation, Lansing Community College, Capital Region Community
Foundation, Michigan State University, YMCA of Lansing and various community banking
organizations.
The Parks and Recreation Department receives feedback regularly from citizens on parks and
recreation facilities and programs provided.This feedback is received through advisory support
from the following citizen groups: City of Lansing Parks Board, Friends of Turner-Dodge, Fenner
Conservancy, the individual Community Center advisory boards, the baseball and softball advisory
boards, and neighborhood park "Friends" groups. Citizens are encouraged to join or be involved
in these advisory groups to help provide feedback to the Parks and Recreation Department.
This feedback ensures the Department is accomplishing its mission and helps identify areas for
improvement.All of these groups that provide guidance and support to the Parks and Recreation
Department can be found under Citizen Advisory Groups starting on Page 26.
In turn, the Parks and Recreation Department provides support to the Mayor and City Council in
policy decisions regarding recreational options and facilities within the City of Lansing.
ORGANIZATION
The Parks and Recreation Department is separated into four different divisions. Each of these
divisions are described below and can be found within the City of Lansing Parks and Recreation
administrative structure, Figure 2, shown on page 24.
22 DRAFT
03 ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE
Administration
The Administrative Division includes Management and Business Administration, Park Design,
Planning and Research, 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 Division is responsible for contracts, license agreements, salary, hourly,
and temporary employment agreements, and seasonal payroll and time cards.They also process
procurement card reconciliations, accounts payable and receivable, and process paperwork for
yearly employee evaluations and step increases.
Field Services
The Field Services Division is comprised of Forestry, Grounds and Landscape Maintenance, and
Athletic Fields and Pool Maintenance.The Public Services Department handles the staffing of each
of these services.
Forestry 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 and Landscape Maintenance 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.
Leisure Services
The Leisure Services Division in the department is responsible for providing and managing
programming at the four community centers (tier, Foster, Letts, and Schmidt Community
Centers). In addition, Leisure Services provides lifetime sports and special recreation services
programming such as Kids Camp, programming at Hunter and Moores Park swimming pools,
and therapeutic recreation.The Leisure Services Division is responsible for operating a handful of
specialized facilities including Turner-Dodge House (historic home) and Fenner Nature Center.
While leisure services operates Fenner Nature Center, programming at the nature center is
provided by Fenner Conservancy.
Golf Operations
The City owns the Groesbeck Golf Course.This is an 18-hole golf course located in the City. While the
City owns the Golf Course, it is managed by Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority
(LEPFA).
FACILITIES
Recreation programming within the City of Lansing is provided at Letts, Gier, Schmidt, and
Foster Community Centers; Groesbeck Golf Course; Lansing River Trail; Moores Park and Hunter
swimming pools; Fenner Nature Center; the Turner-Dodge House; and the Davis, Gier, Ranney,
Sycamore, Davis and Kircher Park ball fields. In addition, recreation programming occurs at several
neighborhood parks and athletic fields throughout the year.The City offers some of its facilities for
rent, including pavilions, equipment, ball fields, and community centers. Rental forms can be found
on the City website and include all the options available to rent, prices associated DRAFT
and all policies related to rental.
2026 ■ ■ CITY OF • PARKS AND RECREATION M. . PLAN
- PARKSFIG UP E2 AND PECPEATION DEPARTMENT ADM IN I STPATIVESTRUCTURE
(
24
I Ro
�
IR ( <
§ � } k
§ � E
0
u
® ( E E
§ >
k } \ fE uI uI
I I
V Q
� oI u
S a 2
a
�
�
R /
Eo
2I
k ) �
�
\ \ \ )
} §
zu
z
ƒ R
� AFT
03 ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE
RELATIONSHIPS WITH OTHER AGENCIES, DEPARTMENTS, AND
ORGANIZATIONS
REGIONAL DIRECTORS GROUP
The Regional Directors Group is made up of directors from the City of Lansing, City of DeWitt, City
of East Lansing, Meridian Township, Eaton County, Ingham County, Delta Township, Delhi Township,
and City of Portland. This group of directors meets on a quarterly basis in the effort to advance
regional goals and discusses a broad range of topics.
LANSING SCHOOL DISTRICT
As will be discussed in the Chapter 4, W
collaboration between the City's Parks and WON
Recreation Department and the nearby
schools or school district is vastly beneficial to providing a wide range of recreation
opportunities for those of all ages. Many City
parks are located near or abutting school
facilities. This has lent itself to a partnership
between the Parks and Recreation -
Department and the Lansing School =_
District.The schools often use park facilities
to host afterschool programs, and the Parks
and Recreation Department's athletic
and summer programming often utilizes
school facilities.The Parks and Recreation
Department continues to work with the school district on proving improved integration between
the schools vast facilities and the Department's programming abilities. This partnership provides
improved recreation opportunities for residents, and prevents a duplication of facilities.
FENNER CONSERVANCY
Fenner Conservancy currently manages the programming at Fenner Nature Center through
a license agreement with the City.The City still maintains ownership of the Nature Center and
provides some funding for staff and maintenance.
LANSING BOAT CLUB
The Lansing Boat Club manages the Lansing Municipal Marina that is located at Grand River Park.
DOWNTOWN LANSING, INC.
Downtown Lansing, Inc. is an organization that helps promote the downtown, or central business
district, within the City of Lansing. Downtown Lansing, Inc. organizes several social and recreational
events within downtown Lansing each year such as Downtown Traffic Jam, Drive-in Movie, A Fresh
Taste,Trick or Treat on the Square, Silver Bells in the City, and Breakfast with Santa.
DRAFT
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
CITIZEN ADVISORY GROUPS
Citizen advisory groups play an important role in parks and recreation within the City of Lansing.
The goal of citizen advisory groups is to advocate for specific recreational facilities or activities.
During the planning and budgeting process, these groups advocate for their specific areas, provide
many hours of volunteer support, and raise funding for development projects and equipment for
park facilities. Citizen advisory groups vary in size and membership. From a few citizens to several
hundred each group is unique with its own set of by-laws.A few citizen advisory groups operate
as non-profits within the City.Tables 2,3, and 4 display the department sponsored boards, friends
groups, and other organizations that help the City of Lansing Parks and Recreation Department.
Aside from those listed below, the City of Lansing maintains many other boards and commissions
to help maintain a vibrant community. For a full list, please visit the City of Lansing's website at
lansingmi.gov.
TABLE 2 - DEPARTMENT SPONSORED BOARDS
DEPARTMENT ■• • ' BOARDS
Leisure Services Advisory Board
Adult Baseball Advisory Board
TABLE 3 - FRIENDS GROUPS
FRIENDS ■• ■
OPGANIZATION 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 Durant Park Durant Park
Friends of Lansing Regional Trails River Trail
Friends of Lansing Historic Cemeteries Evergreen, Mt. Hope, and North Cemeteries
Friends of Bancroft Park Bancroft Park
Friends of Ingham Ingham County Parks
Friends of Ranney Park Ranney Park
26 DRAFT
03 ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE
TABLE 4 - OTHER ORGANIZATIONS
ORGANIZATION PARK OR FACILITY
Lansing Community College Kircher and Ranney Park
Old Town Commercial Association Burchard and Turner-Mini Park
Lansing Garden Club Scott Sunken Gardens
Greater Lansing Food Bank Various City Parks
MSU Crew Club Grand River Park
J & K Steamboat Grand River Park
Lansing Boat Club Grand River Park
Mid-Michigan Mountain Biking Association Fulton-Fine-Hunters Ridge Park
Capital City Family BMX Gier Park
Moores Park Neighborhood Association Moores Park
The Peoples Pool Moores Park
Friends of Fenner Conservancy Fenner Nature Conservancy
Michigan State University Softball Club Ranney Park
Mid-Michigan Turf, LLC Hope Soccer Complex
Southside Community Coalition Beacon Park South
Middle Grand River Organization of Watersheds Grand River
(MGROW)
MI Waterways Stewards Waterways and Adjacent Parks
VOLUNTEERS
The Department is fortunate to have an actively involved network of volunteers to assist
with projects throughout the year.These cooperative efforts provide tremendous support to
department staff and to allow the department to undertake projects that may not otherwise be
within the department's ability to start and or complete.The volunteer network in the City consists
of youth from private and parochial schools, local and national businesses, religious organizations,
university students, fraternity and sorority organizations, scouts, and neighborhood associations.
Volunteers help complete a wide range of projects. Some of these include park clean-ups,
construction, equipment installation, tree trimming, river cleanup and painting. Additionally, the
department has a volunteer tool trailer stocked with equipment available for on-site use.Volunteer
opportunities can be found on the Parks and Recreation Department website.
SPONSORS
The City of Lansing appreciates all those who help contribute to ensuring the highest quality parks
and recreation opportunities and events are provided to residents of the City. Each year companies
and businesses can sponsor events, programs, and banners in the City.
DRAF27T
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
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."
G RANTS
City Council Grants Policy (Resolution 357 of11/23/98) 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
The City Park Land Policy was adopted by the City Council in 1979 and covers the policies and
procedures for the acquisition, development, encroachment, and disposal of parkland. A resolution
was adopted by the City Council in April of 2003, which classifies City properties as dedicated
parklands. Based upon City Ordinance, the Mayor must designate whether or not properties
that are acquired by the City shall be added to the written inventory of dedicated parklands.The
Park Board advises the Mayor and recommends whether acquired land should be dedicated as
parkland, and a classification for the parkland such as neighborhood, community, city-wide, or
special use park.
FUNDING AND BUDGET
OPERATING BUDGET
The City of Lansing general fund is used to fund the Parks and Recreation Department's operating
budget.Two enterprise funds are administered by the Parks and Recreation Department for the
Golf and Cemetery operations.These enterprise funds are used to cover the costs of operating and
capital costs. Service and program fees are charged to offset the general fund operations.
28 DRAFT
03 ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE
INFRASTRUCTURE BUDGET
The City of Lansing's infrastructure budget funds capital improvements projects for the Parks
and Recreation Department.The Lansing Park Millage is used for the Parks and Recreation
portion of the infrastructure budget.The City of Lansing defines a capital improvement project
as a project that has a useful life of at least ten years and costs no less than $15,000.Additionally,
capital improvement projects must meet accounting definitions for items that can be capitalized.
Typically, professional services and free-standing equipment would not be considered to be capital
improvements.
PARKS M I LLAG E
The Lansing Parks Millage is voted on by residents of Lansing and provides funding to keep the
parks system maintained and safe for users. The Park Millage has been in place for over 30 years
and has leveraged over 45 million dollars in grants and community donations. Residents of the City
vote on the Park Millage every five (5) years. The Lansing Park Millage was renewed by voters for
2020-2025 and will soon be up again to be renewed.The Parks Millage generated approximately
2.7 million dollars last year. Money generated from the millage is used for operations and capital
improvements projects.
TABLE 5 - CITY OF LANSING BUDGET FOR PARKS AND RECREATION
CURRENTAND PROJECTED BUDGET FOR PARKS AND RECREATION IN 2025 - 2026
• • • • •
GENERAL FUND $9,104,075 $9,889,333
CEMETERY SUBSIDY FUND $1,122,000 $1,300,500
GOLF SU BSI DY FU N D $100,000 $15,000
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS $2,514,500 $2,635,000
TOTALS $12,840,575 $13,839,833
k
F _
29
DRAFT
i
vs�
_ _ O
LU
i MIS
lw
�{ �' r
LU
ANEW
W
_ice _ i- ► / 1 i 'e
L.L
�9 I
ul• yEe 1
s'F' _�i�d�•
DRAFT
04 RECREATION INVENTORY
RECREATION INVENTORY
INTRODUCTION
A recreation inventory is a assessment done to analyze the parks and recreation opportunities in
the City.This allows the City to assess the quantity and type of facilities, where they are located, the
condition they are in, identify where new facilities should be built, and where ADA improvements
are needed. It also allows the City to showcase the variety of programs and events offered.
The City can use the knowledge gained from the recreation inventory to better plan for parks and
recreation.This knowledge, in conjunction with community input, gives City officials and Parks and
Recreation Department staff a better understanding of what their goals and actions should be
regarding parks and recreation.
The inventory presented in this chapter was completed in the Spring of 202S by Parks and
Recreation Department staff and the Planning Consultant. It contains information regarding park
classifications, parks and amenities, accessibility ratings, programming available, trails, non-city
owned recreational opportunities, and regional recreation opportunities.
PARKLAND INVENTORY
Table 6 on the following pages displays the inventory of all the amenities available in City of Lansing
parklands. In addition, the Ward in which the parkland is located and the size are noted. Any
unique amenities within the parkland are displayed in the last column titled special park features.
Table 7 inventories City Golf courses and Table 8 inventories Cemeteries. Following the inventory
tables, maps displaying the Lansing park system are presented.These maps include an overall map
of the City showcasing all the parklands, community centers, schools, and non-motorized paths.
Four other maps are then presented breaking down the City park system by Ward.This allows for a
better understanding of how parkland is distributed in each Ward in the City.
Yrlir
y
LKK7= Mni-11ra'7h
+ s
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
TABLE 6 - CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT PARK FACILITIES INVENTORY
PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT PARK FACILITIES INVENTORY
LLJ
lot • ,
•
LLJ
• • •
< . •
• n • • • • '
• • • � • • • LLJ
• • • • • • •
• . •
• '
, • • n • n • • . • .• •
n ' • • • •
• �� ••
LU • •
ATTWOOD (E-9) 3 28.80 1 X X Large Open Field
AVERILL (C-7) 3 8.00 X X
BANCROFT (H-3) 1 42.43 X X X X X X X X X X Mason Esker
BARB DEAN TOT 1 0.89 X X X
LOT (F-6)
BASS ETT (E-3) 4 3.40 X X X X
BEACON (D-7) 3 1.31 X X X Lighted Soccer
Field
BECK (F-9) 2 10.50 X X
BLUEBELL (F-8) 2 2.71 X X
Fish Ladder,
N. Lansing Dam,
BURCHARD (F-4) 1/4 5.10 X X X X X X X Canoe Portage,
Outdoor Music
Venue
CAESAR-DONORA 1 2.90 X X
(G-6)
CAVANAUGH (F-8) 2 25.10 X X
CHERRY HILL (F-5) 4 4.97 X X X X X X X
CLIFFORD (G-6) 1 5.44 3 X X CommunityGarden
COMSTOCK (E-4) 4 8.29 2 X X X X
COOLEY GARDENS 4 1.40 X X X X X Formal Gardens
(F-5)
CREGO (I-6) Lake Frontage,
(LARGEST) 2 200.7 X D X X X 2 Natural Setting,
Krueger Landing
DAVIS (D-8) 3 45.80 4 X 2 X 2 X X X X
DEBBIE STABENOW 4 44.01 X X X X X X
(F-7)
DIETRICH (F-3) 4 5.00 X X X X X X
RAF-
34
04 RECREATION INVENTORY
PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT PARK FACILITIES INVENTORY
• •
• LL • • Z •
• • •
••
• • • • • •
• • • ' • • Uj
• • • • • LUO
•
• . •
• •• n . • ' • . • • ••
n ' •
• • • •
• • •
Historic House,
DODGE (F-3) 4 E86 X X X X X Indoor Meeting
Center
DUNNEBACKE (D-4) 4 6.00 X X X
DURANT (F-4) 4 3.00 X X X Historic Site,Arch,
Music Venue
EDMORE (F-4) 4 0.62 X X
ELM (F-5) 1 5.60 X X X P X X X
ELMHURST (E-6) 3 5.30 X 2 X
EVERETT (F-7) 2 3.00 X X
FAIRVIEW (H-4) 1 4.20 X X MSU Oaketum,
Tollgate Wetlands
FENNER NATURE 2 129.52 X X X X X Arboretum,Tours
CENTER (1-6)
FERRIS (F-4) 4 5.92 X 2 X X p X Lighted Soccer
Field
FINE (B-8) 3 35.99 X X Mountain Biking Trails
FOREST VIEW (H-7) 2 8.10 2 X X X X X X
Community
FOSTER (H-5) 1 4.00 2 X X X X X Garden, Bike
Repair Station,
Hammock Stands
FOSTER Administration,
COMMUNITY (H-5) 1 2.30 X X X X Cemetery Office,
CENTER Gym
Formal Flower
FRANCES (C-6) 4 57.80 X X 5 X X X X X D X X X Gardens, River
Overlook, Large
Open Field
FULTON (B-7) 3 44.30 X X X X River Overlook
GEORGETOWN (E-9) 3 11.20 2 X X X
DRAF3.1
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Ln
•
LL
•
• • •
' < •
• •• • • • •
LL
• • • ' • • • LU
• • • • LL
• • •
Cn
• . •
LU
• • ' • ' a •
• u � u • . • ' • . • •• •
• • • •
• -1 •
Community
Center, Gym,
GIER (F-3) 1 36.22 3 X 2 2 X X X Softball
Complex, BMX
Track
GLEN EDEN (H-7) 2 2.50
Michigan
GRAND RIVER (D-6) 4 41.62 X X X X Princess, MSU
Crew Club
GRAVES, GERALD 3 8.74 X 2
W. (C-9)
GREENCROFT (F-6) 2 1.50
HILLBORN (C-8) 3 6.20 X
HILLSDALE (E-5) 4 3.20 X
HOLLY (D-7) 3 5.00 X
HORSEBROOK (D-3) 4 4.37 X
HUL XL COURT (E-4) 4 1.30 X X
Outdoor
Swimming Pool,
HUNTER (H-5) 1 14.00 X X X X X X Spray Park,
Green House,
Community
Gardens
HUNTERS Mountain
RIDGE (B-7) 3 31.69 X X X Biking &Trails
INGHAM (D-7) 3 11.80 X X X Disc Golf Course
IRVING (G-6) 1 0.40
JONES LAKE (E-2) 4 2.38 X Lake Frontage
KALAMAZOO PLAZA 4 0.83 X X R.E. Olds
(F-5) Memorial
KAYNORTH (G-8) 2 2.55 X X
Large Open
KENDON (G-8) 2 5.72 X Field
KIMBERLY (1-3) 1 19.50 Natural Marsh
c y
36
04 RECREATION INVENTORY
PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT PARK FACILITIES INVENTORY
Uj
Uj
•
•
LU
• LU • •
. . •
• u • • • •
UJ
• • • < • • • Uj
• • • • • • • LL
• • • ,� • •
• . •
• • u • u � • . • • .• •
• u u • Uj 0 • • •
• •
• • • . • . • •
KIRCHER (I-5) 1 6.70 X X X X X X X Baseball
Stadium
LARCH (G-4) 1 0.50
LETTS COMMUNITY Community
CENTER (E-5) 4 4.60 4 X X X X X Center, Gym,
Pickleball
LEWTON (D-6) 3 1.70
LYONS (G-7) 2 5.00 X X
Trailhead, Bike
MAGUIRE (H-8) 2 8.86 X X X X X X Repair Station,
Fitness Court
MARSCOT (H-9) 2 5.00 2 X
MARSHALL (H-4) 1 11.40 2 X X 9 X X X X X Sand Volleyball
MCKINCH (D-8) 3 22.50 X X
MOORE, HAROLD (F-3) 4 2.20 X X X X
South Dam,
MOORES (E-6) 4 22.90 X X 2 X X X X X X X X X X Outdoor
Swimming
Pool, Labyrinth
MUNN (H-8) 2 14.36 X X
OAK (G-4) 1 16.70 X X X X X X X X
ORMOND (H-4) 1 8.20 X X
OSBORN (D-4) 4 0.60 X
PLEASANT VIEW (D-8) 3 7.40
PORTER (G-3) 1 10.70 X X
Managed by
POTTER 1 98.50 X X X X X X X Ingham County
Zoo - Fee
PDXSON (G-7) 2 16.70 X
QUENTIN (E-6) 4 10.30 2 2 X X
PAN NEY (1-4) 1 19.10 X 2 X X X X Skateboard
Park, Handball
U A 1-3,
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT PARK FACILITIES INVENTORY
Ln
Q '
• • •
. . •
u • • • • LL
• : • • • : • •
• • ■ ,� • � •
• Ln
LJJ . •
• ' • ' • • •
' • • . • •
•
• •
• • . • . [[jj •
REASONER (F-3) 1 6.62 X X X Large OpenField
REGENT (H-5) 1 4.90 X
REOLA (F-7) 2 0.60 X X
REUTTER (F-5) 4 3.00 X X Fountain
RIVERFRONT, L. Amphitheater,
ADADO (F-4) 14.68 X X X X l Sculpture
Athletic
RISDALE (D-8) 3 17.60 2 X X X X Stadium,
Restrooms, &
Storage Building
RIVERPOINT(F-5) 1 4.37 X X X X X X X River Confluence
RIVERSIDE (E-6) 4 7.30 X
ROTARY (F-5) 1 3.74 X X X X X X X Beach &Seating
Area, Sculpture
ST.JOSEPH (D-5) 4 18.80 3 X X X X
SCOTT (F-5) 4 5.50 X X X Sunken Garden
SCOTT 2 90.27 X X X X X X X X Natural Setting
WOODS (G-7) & Dog Park
SEVENTH (G-3) 1 1.58 X X
SCHMIDT Leased from
COMMUNITY 3 N/A X X X Lansing School
CENTER (D-9) Pool District- Gym &
SHUBEL (H-6) 2 55.50 X X
STABLER (H-5) 1 1.30 X X
SUNSET HILLS 4 0.40 X Community
(D-3) Garden
SYCAMORE (G-6) 2 10.00 X X X X X
SYCAMORE Fenner
CREEK 2 53.20 X X X X Preschool and
Disc Golf
TAMMANY (I-7) 2 1.60 X
38 xA5t
04 RECREATION INVENTORY
PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT PARK FACILITIES INVENTORY
• • •
' •
n u • • • • •
. • • < > 06 y • •
. • Lij . •
Ln
• ' • ' • • 06
Ji •• ' • • • •
�� •
• •
TRAGER (G-6) 1 0.60 7 T 7 X X
TURNER (F-3) 1 0.04 71—� x
Mini Park
WAINWRIGHT (C-8) 3 5.40 X
WALDO (G-7) 2 0.50 X
WALSH (H-5) 1 4.00 X 2 X X X
Remembrance
WENTWORTH (F-5) 4 0.90 X X Memorial,
Rota ry Steam
Clock
WILLOUGHBY (E-10) 2 50.00
WILSON (C-3) 4 4.92 X X X X
WILSON, RUDOLPH Horseshoes&
& DOROTHY (D-4) 4 15.50 2 X X X Concessions
TOTAL PARKS, 107
TOTAL PARK ACREAGE*1,701.98 Acres
AVERAGE PARK SIZE,15.91 Acres
Y /
0
a
_�
e A'31fr.R i
ii
- - DR
39
♦ • ♦111111110va.♦ ■ ♦ • . .I I♦I ■ • •
PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT GOLF COURSE INVENTORY
Ln
W
J v
W
LL 0 Q = cn
J W Z U W
m a -1 U a Z
z D D w 0 Q U m
O = °
a gZ
w
O z aO w
�O O U w QQ � a
n m u m um 0 cn }U W O O Q Wcn a � O= -
J z W
Q Lu mL Lu > m U w as a a ur) s a aQ
a
MIMI
18 Holes, --
PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT CEMETERY INVENTORY
01)
0 w
J (3
w
0 w z Q =
U
0 m a a a z J O � z ~
cn u
W g Q
W DOovcnow ° � za � aY Li
LL
z Q J - a w Q -6 U) � a Q w Q a
w 0 m m Q 0 m Q Q g z v O U 0 a
Li L�Ljcn a z Q w
a a Q v cn O Z J } z w J c~n L Q a � Q Oz W
W Q U w W Q O w O g U = gLLJ —i m a Q a-
u Q � Z m w > aJ`a cnLr)
•
CITY OF LANSING PARKS MAP
A B C D E F G H I J
� Q� N �
N Lo
Z Q
w
J
0
CL
1 Q
1
W STATE RD
DELTA
TOWNSHIP
�y
WARD `� 2
2 4
r
1!
I SHERIDAN RD
V �i Lf i i EAST LANSING
ILLJONESL w I 0'
was 0% LAKE PARK WILSONL HORSEBROOK LNNNNIM —
i L
I �
�
€R COMMUNI I ,
E�O --�� T CENTERr---
v �..Owm
tr � —ter I LAKE LAN S NG RD
H A MOO E ' GIER 3
3 i 00000 �^ PARK L OEM
SUNSET HILLS �� �� ��� 7TH ;
i.
00 o
NNNI TECUMSEH** J I ` �� 't •r—.� I 1 --� ;�
���� ���� I r.L_1� REASONER �� PORTER�'�
== moo-* L�4BASSE� —ti `� �-- T 1 i t
��� I 1 TRIC i V` �BANCROFT IM RK 0
IWARD I w
EDMORE P IfOESBECK I
WILLOW HWY WILLOW ST I A t '
O
1 1 w C SAR E AVEZ AVE �� FAIRV �— v
1 �;—_ i — z 1 1 I I 1 PAR F .,.
L — 1 R H I 1 I
D NNEB CK HULLkT C0; TOCK z 1 ORMOND /I
4 I AK I ND AVE
Ln BU CAR AKLA D E I PARK ;�OVVN S H I P `t
STSI . —��� -- —L
SAGINAW HWY �'----- ��-■ D NT * T MARSH L
AGINQW
1 I D p O K o ® i
1
—� I I ERRI I 4f ® q�F s
cn Q I t � -----r 9
LANSING } z ��—� SHIA ASSEE S _ NN
< z I� IONI ST I 11J _������ FOSTER OMMUNIT�Y T� � j
■� ..
TOWNSHIP I� I T R TAR I ra 1 U 1 > r RA NEY ��"�
L
MICHIGAN "' — L--- — 1 N ORT 1 F z g i MICR AN AVE
® ® LE S COMM IT - ALLEG ��f
CENTEOWNERR 1 I z f I I 4,11
ST E 41%— MINIM MAZOO S a KALAMAZ 0 ST KIR HER ���
5 ` I ' I REU E ®f►♦ 1 r `
Nilk �NIO
STJOE HWY m MI
HILL 1- ABLER RE ENT 1 ' Pi�1
COOLEY
NINEF—
�-
0 IVERPO N
z — E HA EL ST-....
Lo
GRAND RIYER`�—_----`
.' 1 WALSH
• . '7 ELM �—T--�
S RIVER �'.Y E 1 I OWBRIDGE R
T --- I-- . '
IR tI
•
PRANCES y p
OORES — --���QUENTIN ' 1' D SYC 10`R h CREGO �'^� —���
..RARe/ ONO �Y ` I 6
6 ' ; ' ►INS I ; SHUBEL 1 `� l�
MT HOPE HWY I W MT H r.cAdE I I 1 I
W MT HOPE AVE
LEWTON w ; �I� 1 CLIFFORD J
r�
/ p 1FENNER
I G N(�OFT SYCAMORE 4 ^` � NATURE
1 0 ��T I ti..Y .� CREEK .►
z I 1 � !\ p % ]CENTER I
° Q ELMHURST . I I«
w ��EBBIE `��i+.
r ^—— S -�-
a I I FOREST RD
INGHAM � �TABENOW + REO 1■
Q� a 1_ FOREST I I ]
VIEW TAMMANY
AVERILL r+/ __ �J `0`' ` 1I ]
a--j j �� , r� LYON S TT GLEN PARK EN ' J�
_;
I ��L♦ ��ti I I WOODS I , 7
Ir
GE
a �.-.� 1 1 HOLMES RD HOIMES RD _ 1 WA R D�_
LTON M..—� r f I` , I I VER TT Nft� �'� - r r
a I 11 WOODCREEK I �� BEACON `— 1 1 Q
J 1 ® I -'� I
Q oc 'WAIN111 rdT M RY AVE LL' 1
,�"wo J
a a �� CA NAUGH RD � � � ,� ..
a � �ORN r■�����---.�--- �T z CAVANAUG r� KEND > _ DUNCKEL RD
Q
r1 RISDALE �1(I W I Q
z I mom...Y FINE ��` —__....11 WARD I I�� 1 I411, No >I ��
1 LNN.�-- cn z
a I t? i a 1 w MUNN
c� 8 p I
JOLLY RD 1 v r��a MAGUIRE 1
Z JOLLY RD
CL I BLUE4 LO
Q ID MCKINCH 1
L any t KAYNOR H 1
-- 1 I
o I
Qi `�SCHMI CENTER NITY ® B K F� KE`(STO
1 I 1
� I
O GRAVES,
Q Lee in ® ATTWOOD wuj
� � i • .
N Q \ N EME ERY KENNETH HOPE I (]
Z MILLER 1 I MILLER RD J
J 9 1 I 1
CL z
04
�l I MARSCOT
• • �wGEOR ETOWN `—_
BISHOP HWY � �Q�'��O � DELL RD
uj
INN
Q p �-- ♦�' ` J
Y � �..� ------- ; D E L H I
� uj
w
Q
TOWNSHIP
�
WILLOUGHBY RD ` WILLOUGHBY RD 10
CIO10 DELHI cp
TOWNSHIP
u ��° w
O ILLOUG BY Q
U
N
A B C D E F G H I J
O
N
LEGEND N
* SCHOOLS o WARD 1 ROADS
* COMMUNITY CENTERS o WARD 2
N
- - NONMOTORIZED PATHWAY
- RIVER TRAIL o WARD 3 Miles
a
WATER BODY o WARD 4 0 0.31 0.62 1.24
T CITY OF LANSING PARKS o CITY OF LANSING BOUNDARY
JUNE 2025
VVARD 1 PARK AND TRAIL rAf1AP
�7
ffSHERIDAN
1
Lu
ce
0
07
w I FREDRICK AVE
o
]ONES
LAKE PARK— w
>
QED
z MMUNITY T �v
�, / i
�
HOWE AVE a a
Fj<<F �•' Cuj
AS LAN S I N
�y�
G�iiCil�4MtkiI � /
CENTER
LAKE LANSING R
H A MOORE
PARK GIER 4
2
THOM S ST 7TH i
♦` ' qL ui 1 i MO EG
♦♦
♦♦ i ���` REASONE PORTER 4e#� _
��`M ♦` /
r— ♦♦ / I 1
�� ♦♦I j Q 1
%*
�lr I
DIETRICHLu ; ♦ NORTH S OFT 1 �
• > i PAR
DODGE w J
PAR I � ; ' I
/ w 1 I ,z
0
D .-
ILLO ST �
r
Q
CESAR t CHAVEJ AVE
I _ _
I
--r-- ' LARC T OWN SF I I
1 I ORMOND
PARK
LL
RC ARD
AA E OAK ND AVE
GRAND RIVER VE
--•• I I I a
1
MAY ST
—1
' MARSHALL
SAG N W ST SA INA ST
> I I O
Q I �'.' I
> ! �
z z p I z ADA I ' __ r r� FE NW OD A E
a � v i � I � i ` --•I I ���
IONIA ST I �STSIDE�NNE�fQ�,�F�l$� _J
-SIIJ ST NN Y
R R I FOS ER CDMMUNITY
I OTTAWA STWA S CETE— I L'
MICHIGAN AVE ^�
r MI HIGA AVE
------ I ` - -- -
t� I Lnn Q w I
ALLEGAN ST ALL AN ST i p Q
Lu
oc
w � � I _
r
WASH ENAW T I PRC SPECT ST u- u-
— A LEN EIG BO HO
� * CENTER "' KIRCHER)
� T
KALA AZ00 ST
♦ � �-
Lu
Ln ¢ > o O )HUNT
~ O a =
EL ZABE H ST
® — — •• ABLE
I
� • . REGENT I
EAS LAN S I G
RIVERPOINT
CL
z ALSH ST ��•
WARD Y
-- -
Q
� � WALSH I I
ELM I 1
Z
` SOUTH ST i TR WBRIDGE RD
CCL
L
TRV
E '�
I
p vowo 1
Lu ST
I z BARB ONORAOF
m v�
Q oc BARN AV E I'� >
--- t; Q
N z I J a u'
z Y > a
W Ln
z J Q
Z) J �;
Q '� w w '.-
z m MT HO E AVE
-- —� -- — O Q MT HOPE AVE
CLIFA
Lu
06
(� WARD i � FEN�R VIL '
J u '
LL Y�� w _
MIFM
� J
N
O
c, LEGEND
N
o WARD 1 ROADS
cn
-- NONMOTORIZED PATHWAY o WARD 2
Q) PARKS o WARD 3
N
7
WATER BODY = WARD 4 Miles
CL RIVER TRAIL 0 0.13 0.25 0.5
C COMMUNITY CENTERS
J U N E 2025
VVARD 2 PARK AND TRAIL PAAP
OLDS E w `♦♦♦
Q WAL H sf
o
Q
z a
w
Q
♦�` }
z
1 ST L NSI G
z
OGRES RIVER J -----■ •--- ---_ -- ----
�.
4#*
♦� *#
td
SYCAMOR
16ZI
a J REGO
BA NES AVE _ J
F-
SMITH AVE SHUBEL Mao
— �� ---- 1 MT HOPE AVE
Lu
> a
�� z� Q I� �� �r � j l
00
GORDON AVE J
w 1 \ s� t' I p
A > Y� N ER �+ ; I cn
yv/ Q z SYCAMORE
ftwo f I P
w CREEK fir`
w
a iJ)
Ole J 1
VICTO AVE �I
+ to FOREST RD ' I FOREST PATHWAY RD
� --- —
r REOLA
FOREST VIEW
DU LAP ST LYONS GLEN EDE I ' /
PARK o T MMAN ' i ;0
SCOTT WOODS
} w
J ' `44
Lu
0 �',
to-
BERRY AVE `O
-o
WARASH RD %�A
HOLMES RD
o EVERE ft* E DR
o — �■--• PROVINCIAL H
w
_ �
ce oc IRVINGT N AVE
mLu
1 m l Q \
LDO
MAS N ST uj , LUWANNA DR
�--- Q i�
�m
i � �•
own� �J
CAVANAUGH RD Q
-- — z
UGH RD DUNCKEL RD PATHWAY
— KENDCIN z m�
CAVANAUGH M I w w '
I w Q
� ! w WAYNE ST I TRAppE
RS COV
z w I FT
� z
SYRI GA DR KEDON DR oL7 � I
BEAU JARDIN DR
i
MAGUIRE MUNN
OL Y RD
LUEBE L
1 I
1
3 1 ARMSTRONG RD
Lu
I YNORTH i ce-
QI
NORTHRUP ST I L
LnI
LOUSA ST
1 CK oz
—i BRAD ST w I Ln o s
U 16 U I ��
Q Ln
CLA EM RE D O O
a HEIN AVE �� t i I • •
KENNETH HOPE
w
Q CEMETERY i t
a D _ MILLER RD SANDHILL RD
a z
z
o a o �
Q J Q Z MARSCOT �� \
wo _, 000
J
100
CL 0000
000
100
00
C/)
C� SAYW R RD
U EDGE
WOOD BLVD 00000
0;
DELH I
_ TOWIqSHIP
ftooftm um om WON woo
J
CL
cr
WILLOUGHB4 RD
U - - - - - - - - — - - - - - - - - - - - - - UGHBY RD
Lu
� I ~
' w
ZWILLOUGHBY 102
C/) t
w
z
J
u- AMBLER PT TOLLAND AVE
01 KELLER RD
U �
N
O
LEGEND. N
o WARD 2 ROADS
-- NONMOTORIZED PATHWAY o WARD 1
N
PARKS o WARD 3
WATER BODY = WARD 4 Miles
CL RIVER TRAIL 0 0.13 0.25 0.5
CL
JUNE 2025
VVARD 3 PARK AND TRAIL P4AP
M/ MT HOPE HWY MT HOPE AVE
Lu
QP
LL I
0
DELTA
LEWT zce
TOWNSHIP w
Q
GORDON AVE
0 O��
z ' �p
W00 VIEW DR o W
�C��♦♦ m ♦♦
GLASGOW DR 011
Ln
�♦ �0� VICTOR AVE VICTOR AVE ♦♦♦
'� INVERARY DR ♦I
BRISBANE DR HOLLY W Y ♦��— ��, Y
INGHAM
♦ I
' J
DUNLAP STLu
AVERILL ���♦♦
�� •r` f�� 40 g i HOLL
r��► �y • ce O=
z HERRICK R
oe
/♦ STARLIGHT LNLn
♦♦� �Q�
y CIO
:.� 0-4 ...m�`��� HOLMES RD z 11 > ♦ HOLMES RD
AO �♦ 1
i'� '♦♦ GLENB OOK DR.
FU46NI' WOODCREEK � ♦~♦ N BEACON
I
dl �♦ 1
Q fir'► FERROL ST
SHEFFIELD BLVD �� Y
HILLCREST ST
HILLCREST ST =
a
JI �
' U' woo' FIELDING DR M�RY AVE LAVA
AINWRIGH N
RD
Q HILLBORN 7
•� ♦ - RISDALE AVE
�"%EPLE ASANT VIEW
t� � evRNE BLVD Lu> � RISDALE �`
z
0 REO RD IN AFINE
z RONALD ST N
``� rn REO RD 2
rn
w
0 z
w
o z
1
z cn F-
Q Q w cn
g Lu
JOLLY RD I a U
I
I
I
�I
al
w
U)
D FERLEY ST
o MCKINCH
uj
U)' ♦ I MOFFITT ST
BEN DAvt 1
Lu
o ��. �� ..00
'-u w
z
0
v
LANSING RIVER TRAIL SOUTHSIDE EXTENSION__
NORTHRUP ST
' POLLARD RD yG
I
s'po 1
I �fo�F 1
WEBSTER ST
Q S HMIDT COMMUNITY
GRAVES CENTER >
z
Y KENN DY DR ATTWOOD
w
NEWARK AVE Q Q
~ Ln
CL
z a
Q > Lu Q a
cr- ........ /MmT1-LER RD
Y a
C7 w
z z
C
CL
GEORGET N
U ORGETOWN BLV
O
Q
N
BISHOP HWY
CIL B
z
Lu
W o
06 DELH I
co
Q TOWNSHIP z
w
0
LL
Q
J
O
U
N
O
c, LEGEND
N
o WARD 3 ROADS
cn
-- NONMOTORIZED PATHWAY o WARD 2
Q) PARKS o WARD 4
N
7
° WATER BODY Miles
CL RIVER TRAIL 0 0.1 0.2 0.4
SCHMIDT COMMUNITY CENTER
J U N E 2025
� � N
VVARD 4 PARK AND TRAIL NIAP
d
w O
Q 0 NORTHCREST RD
BOTCHOT RD
0
Y
DELTA ce
coTOWNSHIP
WIELAND RD
VALLEY RD
Y
z
m
G
o �
NO RI�FR Nam,
COLEMAN RD�1
PORT LANSING RD
IJ
00 SHERIDAN RD
v �
ER DERI K AVE
Lu
Q
WILSON AVE z ce
Lu
I
WILSO HORSEBR O owc v
uLn
7 ��
LA A E E VE Y F HOWE AVE r a 000
I
11 L�� I
w pE y
a �`�--
� , Q
� Oz p �� l --��^ V ST 1 /
QU BE � �1000
SUNSET IL S WD
OI DOUG S E
TECUMSE
F�►
OEM 0-1 u
All
w w T = NORTH S
'T Z '
Ln z CROSS ST
L-7 I g E M R
3 WILLOW HWY WILLOW! r
0 1
O
M PL=
S
UNNE ~
O CONfTOC KIL ORN ST
0 O v NULL T B RCH D
Lu
MAY ST
SAGINAW HWY , ■ w ,
ST = z z O DURA IT
i
SA �lj IT
Ln
LAN
w ,� I �_ w ¢ G NES E ST i AD g
IVA ST Q o S IA SSE ST FERRIS I ;
TOWN H P J c T—
r A AS '
MICHIG N AVE _ _ _ a , EN RT 1
---- --
Lu
OT ALLEGAN S �'
ce E COM UNI
CEN R 1
xLu
QL � KINGS EY KALA AZ00 S
Ln Ln
QLuST 7 E
C/5 R UTT R Ln 1
LE O ru*0 EL ZAB TH ST
Y ST J E HWY I ST JOSEP STcr-
11
M
OOLEY OCM X ST
CL 7—X&-T I—IT-)k—M—c�—TT — L—J
Q
Q
LDS AVEAZEL T Q
Yawr
Q GRAND RIVr���■�--- ��� z
�0,000 �
Z d'' soon ' PERKINS
CL ES R r1�``��
■ ' '� kIV'ERSl'
NCE
U oz I MOORES KQ
QUEN IN
U B RNES AVE
77 SMITE AVLu
p
Q a LL
N MT HOP HWY z ��
z T HOPE AVE
77
W o�O�� PDXS N AVE X� G NC O T RILlY S Q
I— GORDON V
�� Q C V
MHURST �� � � > w
WGLASGOW R TISDALE AVE V
UNDLE AVE ' , Lu a w Q O
3 Ln U41
v DEBBIE � Q
V R AV I T R AVE--- �I' STABENOW � GREE LAWN AVE a
Y HOLLY WA ��--
DLu, ~
� � Q Q
DUNLA ST DENVER
E
z o ui, DU LAP ST I z '�, LOA ST ARD
ui
0
HO 2
�?mm HOLM 5 RD # ' a HO ES RD
I z
N
O
c, LEGEND
N
o WARD 4 ROADS
cn
-- NONMOTORIZED PATHWAY o WARD 1
Q) PARKS o WARD 2
N
7
WATER BODY 0 WARD 3 Miles
cr-
RIVER TRAIL 0 0.17 0.35 0.7
LETTS COMMUNITY CENTER
J U N E 2025
04 RECREATION INVENTORY
TRAI LS
NON-MOTORIZED TRAILS
LANSING RIVER TRAIL
The City of Lansing has an extensive non-motorized transportation system with miles of trails, bike
lanes, and sidewalks for residents and visitors to use as an alternative means of transportation.
The Lansing River Trail has been built in multiple phases, starting in the mid-1970's along the Grand
River in the downtown region of Lansing and has expanded over time to connect several parks,
businesses, schools, and other communities. In the 1980's and 1990's, the River Trail was expanded
east along the Red Cedar River to Potter Park Zoo and Michigan State University (MSU) in East
Lansing. In 2008, the segment southward along the Sycamore Creek was built, stretching from
Potter Park Zoo south through Hawk Island County Park, to Maguire Park where it connects to the
Delhi Township path system.
From Maguire Park, a trail segment was built in 2014 extending west to Waverly Road along a utility
corridor. Along Waverly Road beginning at Maybel Road, a trail extends north up to Frances Park.
The Lansing River Trail has grown to 25 miles of pathways, bridges, and boardwalks within the City
of Lansing connecting to East Lansing and MSU's trail systems and the Delhi Township trail system.
The trail allows for walking, biking, and running.Trailheads with parking are available at multiple
park sites throughout the City.
In 2009, the City of Lansing adopted a complete streets Ordinance and in 2011 the Public Service
Department adopted the City's first non-motorized transportation plan. Since 2012, new projects
within the City are required to provide short and long-term bicycle parking within their site
i
a,
51
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
plans.The City has a long standing history of actively planning and prioritizing non-motorized
transportation.The City has worked with surrounding communities and entities such as the City
of East Lansing, MSU, Delhi Township, Delta Township, and Ingham County. Collaboration between
the City of Lansing and surrounding communities has not only allowed the City to provide an
extensive non-motorized transportation network, but also provides connection to surrounding
communities and facilities.
The City of Lansing's Non-Motorized Plan includes a vision for establishing a walking and
bicycling network that links to a regional non-motorized system.The Plan includes objectives,
strategies, performance measures, and prioritizes routes and facilities based on an extensive
public engagement process.The recommendations include priority cross-town routes, a number
of additional neighborhood connectors including on-street bike lanes and bike routes, and
connection to the City's existing trail network to regional trails.
When collecting community input, respondents valued the trails and non-motorized
transportation opportunities available in the City, but wished to see it continue to be expanded to
reach additional parks and recreation facilities and centers of activity.
Recent improvements to the Lansing River Trail include extensions of the trail east past MSU, as
well as an extension from Aurelius Road,just north of Maguire Park, extending east and then north
where it crosses Cavanaugh Road, then Wabash Road near Bear Lake, and ending at Forest Road.
Potential future improvements include continuing the Lansing River Trail past Waverly Road then
north through existing residential development and north past Jolly Road before connecting into
Fine Park.
TRI-COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION (TCRPC)
In 2010, the TCRPC began to establish a region-wide green infrastructure vision for Clinton, Eaton,
and Ingham counties.This planning initiative identified and analyzed potential conservation areas,
and mapped hubs and potential links to create a network for protected lands and trails.This green
infrastructure plan would result, once implemented, in natural resource conservation in balance
with economic development and a healthy environment.
Most recently, the TCRPC developed the Regional Trails Feasibility Plan, adopted in August 2023.
Through the efforts of this Plan the TCRPC sought to connect statewide trails that pass through
Ingham, Clinton, and Eaton Counties, and study existing paths, and proposed routes to fill crucial
corridor gaps in connecting the Tri-County region to the state wide trail systems, particularly the
Clinton-Ionia-Shiawassee (CIS) Trail, the Mike Levine Lakelands Trail (also the Iron Belle Trail), and
the Paul Henry-Thornapple Trail. The City of Lansing, at the northwest corner of Ingham County, is
at the heart of these three counties and thus an important central connection point.
INGHAM COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE TRAILS AND PARKS PLAN
After passage of the Ingham County Trails and Parks Millage in 2014, Ingham County developed
the Comprehensive Trails and Parks Plan.The Plan provides a detailed inventory and assessment of
the trail systems within Ingham County, identifies planned trails and regional corridors, and makes
recommendations for county-wide Trails and Parks Millage projects.The Plan contains a bridge
assessment, pavement assessment, and water trail assessment.
Ingham County established the Trails and Parks Millage to provide essential funding for trail and
park projects to communities within Ingham County and the Ingham County Parks stem.Voters
approved the millage in 2014, implementing a sixyear 0.5 mill levy, which was ren D
FT
52
04 RECREATION INVENTORY
Since it's inception, the millage has funded a total of 115 projects, awarding just under $45.5 million
to local communities.
The City of Lansing has received a large portion of these millage funds, almost $17.2 million, first
focusing on the reconstruction of the existing River Trail pavement and bridges, but more recently
expanding the City's non-motorized trails,while also improving and expanding the water trail on
the Grand River and Red Cedar Rivers.
WATER TRAILS
MIDDLE OF THE GRAND RIVER WATER TRAIL
The Middle of the Grand Water Trail stretches 87 miles from the City of Eaton Rapids to the
Village of Lyons and is one of only nine water trails in Michigan with a state designation.The River
Trail provides a paddlers with a of urban, suburban, and natural areas to enjoy.The Middle of the
Grand Water Trail flows through the heart of Downtown Lansing.The City of Lansing has kayak
launch points or river access points for the water trail at Tecumseh Park, Burchard Park (2),Adado
Riverfront Park (2), Rotary Park, Riverpoint Park, Cherry Hill Park (Sweeney's Landing), Moores Park
(with portage around dam), Grand River Park, and Fulton Park for paddlers to utilize.
A plan was developed for the Middle Grand River Water Trail by the Middle Grand River
Organization of Watersheds (MGROW).The plan was created to guide the development and
management of a safe, sustainable water trail along the Middle Grand River.The plan also looks at
extensions to the Red Cedar, Looking Glass, and Maple Rivers.
111' WATE
E Moores Park
Access
RED CEDAR WATER TRAIL
The Red Cedar Water Trail stretches 23 miles from McCormick Park in Williamston to the Grand
River confluence at Riverpoint Park in the City of Lansing.There, it merges into the Middle Grand
River Water Trail. The Red Cedar River Water Trail Committee is in the process of submitting for
a state designation. In 2024, a multi jurisdictional project was awarded to improve the water trail
corridor of the Red Cedar River.The funding will provide new launch sites and help clean fallen
trees and other debris from the Red Cedar River which prohibit navigation down r c ri
5T
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
COMPARISON TO STANDARDS
PARKLAND CLASSIFICATIONS
City of Lansing parklands are placed in classifications based on recommendations from the Park
Board to the Mayor when acquired.These classifications are based on the Recreation Parka nd
Open Space Standards and Guidelines published by the National Recreation and Park Association
(NRPA).These include mini parks, neighborhood parks, community parks and linear parks.The City
additionally uses another parkland classification that they have defined as city-wide parks based on
size, equipment, facilities, and locations. Each of these classifications are defined below.
MINI PARKS:
Mini parks are small outdoor recreation spaces that address limited, isolated, or unique recreational
needs of a concentrated population.These parks are usually 2,500 square feet or one acre in size
and serve an are up to a 1/4 mile.These parks are also known as pocket parks.
NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS:
Neighborhood parks can often be considered the basic unit of a parks system.They serve as
recreational and social hubs of the neighborhood.These parks are intended to serve an area 1/4 to
1/2 mile in distance and are uninterrupted by non-residential roads and other physical barriers.They
are generally 5 to 10 acres in size.
COMMUNITY PARKS:
Community parks serve a broader purpose than neighborhood parks.Their focus is on meeting
community-based recreational needs, as well as preserving unique landscapes and open spaces.
These parks are usually between 30 to 50 acres and serve a radius of 1/2 mile to 3-mile distance.
CITY-WIDE PARKS:
City-wide parks serve the largest range in the City. These parks are intended to serve the entire City
and draw audiences from all four Wards.These parks have more unique features or purposes than
that of the other parkland classifications which draws community members from a larger range to
these spaces.There are no specific standards for this classification.
LINEAR PARKS:
Linear parks are connections that link
places or parks together. Linear parks are
typically designed for multiple modes of
transportation such as walking, biking,
jogging, and hiking.There are no specific
standards for linear parks.
z .
54 DRAFT
04 RECREATION INVENTORY
NATIONAL RECREATION AND PARK ASSOCIATION AGENCY
PERFORMANCE REVIEW
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) annually gathers data from parks and
recreation agencies to provide an overview of parks and recreation agencies' performance. With
this data,the NRPA publishes an NRPA Agency Performance Review that provides jurisdictions
and agencies with reports, tables, graphs, and other data visuals that provide an idea of a "typical"
agency within a given population.The purpose of this performance review is to provide agencies
with a tool to compare their own performance with that of other US agencies and identify areas
where the agency is performing with excellence and areas where improvement could be made.
The 2025 NRPA Agency Performance Review represents data from approximately 900 parks and
recreation agencies across the country. It is important to remember that these metrics are a
snapshot of parks and recreation currently throughout the country.
The City of Lansing has a population of111,269 people.The City was compared with other agencies
with a population between 100,000 and 249,999 people. Based on the 2025 NRPA Agency
Performance Review, the median number of residents per park for areas with a population of
100,000 to 249,000 is 3,437 people. Comparatively,the City of Lansing has 1,011 residents per park.
This indicates that the City on average has more parkland than that of other agencies serving
similar populations. The median acres of parkland per 1,000 residents for agencies is 9.2 acres.The
City of Lansing provides 17.39 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents.This is more comparable to
the upper quartile of agencies that provide 16.5 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents.These two
statistics indicate that the City of Lansing, on average, is providing more parklands than that of its
peers.
The median miles of trails for agencies with similar populations is 29 miles of trails.The River Trail
in Lansing is currently 25 miles. This does not include all of the trails located within City of Lansing
parks and open spaces. With these included, the City of Lansing has more than the median miles
of trails for agencies serving similar populations.
The City of Lansing parks and recreation operating budget for the 2025/2026 fiscal year is
$13,839,833. Comparatively, the median annual operating budget of jurisdictions serving similar
populations is $14,754,000.This comparison is particularly important and informative because on
the annual operating budget in the City is slightly lower than that of its peers however, the City is
still providing more parkland than that of its peers.
fie! R' ° i-." ..I•
V 1 \ 5s
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
ACCESSIBILITY
Park systems and facilities should be designed to be safe, accessible, and usable for all individuals
within the community regardless of ones age or ability.The Michigan Department of Natural
Resources (DNR) has developed a grading system to identify parks and facilities accessibility levels,
based upon the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Guidelines.The system uses a five point
system ranging from 1, not accessible to 5, park designed using the principles of universal design.
The criteria for each ranking is shown below in Table 9. Each park and recreation facility managed
by the City of Lansing Parks and Recreation Department is rated using the system described
here.The accessibility rankings for each park and recreation facility can be found within Table 10.
Accessibility assessments for each park were conducted during the spring of 2025.
After the Americans with Disabilities Act went into effect in 1992, 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 City Council in 1993.The Parks and Recreation Department's recent
projects have been constructed to comply with all federal and state statues regarding barrier-free
compliance.
TABLE 9 - DNR ACCESSIBLE GRADING SYSTEM FOR PARKS AND RECREATION FACILITIES
GRADEACCESSIBILITY •
1 None of the facilities/park areas meet accessibility guidelines
2 Some of the facilities/park areas meet accessibility guidelines
3 Most of the facilities/park areas meet accessibility guidelines
4 The entire park meets accessibility guidelines
5 The entire park was developed/renovated using the principles of
universal design
TABLE10 - PARK AND RECREATION FACILITY ACCESSIBILITY EVALUATIONS
CITY OF LANSING PARKAND RECREATION
ACCESSIBILITYPAP K NAME
RATING
ATTWOOD 3
AVERILL 1
BANCROFT 3 Trail
BARB DEAN TOT LOT 3
BASSETT 2
BECK 3
BEACON 4 Trail and Playground
BLUEBELL 3
BURCHARD 3
CAESAR-DONORA 3
56 umAF-r
04 RECREATION INVENTORY
CITY OF LANSING PAPK AND ♦TION FACILITY ACCESSIBILITY
PARK NAMEACCESSIBILITY ♦ •D♦
RATING
CAVANAUGH 2
CHERRY HILL 3 Kayak launch designed to principles of universal
design
CLIFFORD 3 Pickleball
COMSTOCK 2
COOLEY GARDENS 2 Parking lot designed to principles of universal design
CREGO 5 Park was designed using principles of universal
design
DAVIS 3 Restroom/Concession, baIIfields, Fit Court, and
parking lot built using universal design
DIETRICH 2
DODGE 2
DUNNEBACKE 2
DURANT 3
EDMORE 1
ELM 2
ELMHURST 1
EVERETT 1
FAIRVIEW 4 Tollgate Drain Paths
FENNER NATURE 3 Davis pavilion and the River Trail
CENTER
FERRIS 3 Strikeout baseball
FINE 1 No facilities at the park site
FOREST VIEW 2
FOSTER 4
FOSTER COMMUNITY 5 Renovated using the principles of universal design,
CENTER swings
FRANCES 4 Parking lot and rose garden
FU LTON 3 Overlook
GEORGETOWN 2
GIER 3 Pump track
GLEN EDEN 1 No facilities at the park site
GRAND RIVER 3
GRAVES, GERALD W. 2
GREENCROFT 1 No facilities at the park site
HILLBORN 2
HILLSDALE 3 np
L.00 I %
57
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
CITY OF LANSING PARK AND ♦TION FACILITY ACCESSIBILITY
PARK NAMEACCESSIBILITY ♦ •D♦
RATING
HOLLY 3
HORSEBROOK 1
HULLCOURT 2
HUNTER 4 Pool upgrades
HUNTERS RIDGE 1
INGHAM 2 Playground
IRVING 1 No facilities at the park site
JONES LAKE 1 No facilities at the park site
KALAMAZOO PLAZA 4
KAYN O RTH 1
KENDON 1
KIMBERLY 1 No facilities at the park site
KIRCHER 4
LARCH 1 No facilities at the park site
LETTS COMMUNITY 5 Renovated using the principles of universal design
CENTER
LEWTON 1 No facilities at park site
LYONS 1
MAGUIRE 5 Access designed using the principles of universal
design
MARSCOT 3
MARSHALL 3
MCKINCH 1
MOORE, HAROLD 2
MOORES 3 Pool
M U N N 2 ADA access to the River Trail pathway
OAK 3
ORMOND 3
OSBORN 1
PLEASANT VIEW 1 No facilities at park site
PORTER 2
POTTER 3 Managed by the county
PDXSON 2 Playground
QUENTIN 2
RANNEY ADA accessible pathways within the park
58 DRAF
04 RECREATION INVENTORY
CITY OF LANSING PAIRK AND ♦TION FACILITY ACCESSIBILITY
PARK NAMEACCESSIBILITY ♦ •D♦
RATING
REASONER 2
REGENT 2
REOLA 1
REUTTER 3
RIVERFRONT, LOUIS F. A universally accessible playground, Play Michigan,
ADADO 4 was added
RISDALE 3 Stadium designed using the principles of universal
design
RIVERPOINT 4 Dock
RIVERSIDE 1 No facilities at the park site
ROTARY 5 Designed using the principles of universal design
ST.JOSEPH 3
SCOTT 4 Parking lot access to Cooley
SCOTT WOODS 4
SEVENTH 1
SCHMIDT COMMUNITY 5 Designed using the principles of universal design
CENTER
SHUBEL 1 No facilities at the park site
STABENOW, DEBBIE 2 Playground, fitness equipment, and pavilion
STABLER 2
SUNSET HILLS 2 No facilities at the park site
SYCAMORE 2
SYCAMORE CREEK 3
TAM MANY 4
TECUMSEH 3
TRAGER 1 No facilities at the park site
TURNER 4
WAINWRIGHT 2
WALDO 2
WALS H 2
WENTWORTH 4
WILLOUGHBY 1 No facilities at the park site
WILSON 2
WILSON, RUDOLPH & 4
DOROTHY
WOODCREEK 3 D RA hs,
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
DNR GRANT HISTORY
The City of Lansing has been successful in receiving grants for parks and recreation from the DNR.
The Parks and Recreation Department have continued to maintain the sites acquisitioned and
facilities constructed from grant funding to allow for the use of these spaces for the public.Table 11
below details each of the past grants the City of Lansing has received.
TABLE 11 - CITY OF LANSING GRANT HISTORY
GRANTCITY OF LANSING ■
PROJECT APPLICATION PROJECTTITLE GRANT GRANT PROJECT DESCRIPTION
■ ■ A■ -1OL AMOUNT STATUS
• Sheffield Park Acquire 26.78 acres for park
development&scenic drive
26-00045 1966 (formerly Southwest $69,615 Closed extending Moores River
River Park)
Drive
Building addition, ice
Lansing Outdoor Ice making equipment,
26-00550 1974 Rink $78,500 Closed fencing, batter boards,
lighting,walks, parking &
site development
Wharf&starter deck,2
Lansing Riverfront lighted deck tennis courts,
26-00693 1976 park $82,812 Closed viewing deck,site furniture,
signs, landscaping, LWCF
sign
Develop 5 acres for
parking, pedestrian/bike
26-00926 1977 Dietrich Park $53,000 Closed path, landscaping,site
Development preparation, LWCF sign, 2
docks with stairs&entry
woodwork
Well,vault toilets,decking
&steps, pathway,fence,
26-01023 J3 1977 Davis Park $38,781 Closed parking, road, bench,
landscaping, picnic tables,
fire circle, LWCF sign
Lansing Tennis Courts Construct 2 tennis courts
26-01023 K3 1977 at four Parks $46,317 Closed at Marscott, River Street,
Wilson &Woodcreek Parks
26-01023 L3 1977 Forest View Park $21,000 Closed Construct 2 tennis courts
Lighting &fencing for
26-01023 M3 1977 Gier Park $60,438 Closed existing ball diamonds&
LWCF sign
Theo Fulton Overlook dock, play area,
26-01060 C4 1975 (Sheffield) Park $33,400 Closed parking, picnic area, & LWCF
sign
Lansing Riverpoint Development of dock, boat
26-01134 1980 Park (formerly Elm St. $31,300 Withdrawn ramp& parking lot
Park)
60 DRAFT
04 RECREATION INVENTORY
CITY OF LANSING GIRANTO P
ROJECT APPLICATION PPOJECTTITLE GRANT GRANT PROJECT DESCRIPTIOr
YEAR AMOUNT STATUS
Develop canoe launch,
26-01221 1981 Chadwell Launch $53,297 Closed demolition,earth moving,
retaining walls, asphalt path,
landscaping,dock, &sign
Trail, demolition,site
Lansing Urban development, landscaping,
26-01296 1984 Recreation Trail $68,407 Closed boardwalks,furniture,signs,
asphalt path, LWCF sign at
Elm and Cedar St.
Urban Recreation Construction of links to
TF86-229 1986 Trail $262,500 Closed Riverfront Trail. Commencing
at Elm St. east of S. Cedar St.
TF87-244 1987 Lansing Urban Rec. $250,000 Closed Continue trail east of Potter
Trail Park Zoo towards MSU
Continue walkway along
TF88-138 1988 River Trail $375,000 Closed Grand River with observation
decks,fishing &canoe access
Acquire 1/2 mile of abandoned
TF88-139 1988 Lansing River Trail $80,250 Withdrawn railroad line in northwest
portion of City
Continue River Trail from
Turner Dodge Mansion
TF89-187 1989 Lansing River Trail $375,000 Closed to Brenke Fish Ladder.
189 Boardwalk,stairs,grading,
walls/handrails, paving and
landscaping
Rebuild restroom, renovate
and resurface 12 concrete
Moores Park shuffleboard courts, renovate
BF89-405 1989 Renovations $272,325 Closed picnic shelter&stairs,
resurface 2 tennis courts,
parking, play equipment and
landscaping
Renovation of pavilion
Potter Park including new restroom
BF89-407 1989 Renovations $200,000 Closed facilities& renovation of
farmyard area in the zoo
Construction of asphalt
Lansing River Trail pedestrian path with wooden
TF90-261 1990 190 $316,500 Closed decks along the Grand River
from Grand River Ave.to the
Dodge Mansion
Redevelopment of existing
trail system, new barrier-
BF90-262 1990 Fenner Natural Area $187,500 Closed free loop, interpretive signs,
educational exhibits in the
center and paving existing
parking lots
DRAFj'
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
CITY OF LANSING GRANTOR
PROJECT APPLICATION PROJECTTITLE GRANT G PANT PROJECT DESCRIPTION----
NUMBER YEAR AMOUNT STATUS
Test 3 methods of repairing
BF91-096 1991 Tennis Court $97,500 Closed cracked asphalt at Clifford,
Repairs St.Joseph & Ranney and
replacement of fence
Develop the River Trail from
BF91-097 1991 Riverpoint Park $159,300 Closed Elm St.to Washington Ave. &
Riverpoint Park from Clippert
St.to Kalamazoo St.
Adding modern accessible
BF93-270 1993 Neighborhood $210,000 Closed play structures at Davis,
Play Equip. Washington, Frances& Hunter
Parks
Restoration of pavilion and
Frances Park overlook structures and
26-01536 1993 Renovations $101,537 Closed removal/replacement of roads
and parking lot surfacing/curb
cuts for accessi bi I ity
Link existing River Trail from
TF95-122 1995 River Trail West $375,000 Closed Spring St.to Riverpoint Park
&from Riverpoint Park to
Washington Ave.
Fenner Acquire 10 acre parcel, a
TF95-125 1995 Arboretum $360,000 Closed commercial inholding, & return
In holding it to its natural setting
Acquisition
Provide improved parking
TF96-102 1996 Frances Park $408,900 Closed areas,fishing docks& riverbank
Shoreline stabilization along the Grand
River
Construction of 1,600 feet of
River Trail Moores asphalt and boardwalk paths,
TF97-027 1997 park- Elm Street $500,000 Closed bridge over Grand River and,
on adjacent property,wooden
sta i rs&wa I kway
Acquisition of31 acres of natural
Poyet Parcel area along Sycamore Creek for
TF97-218 1997 Acquisition $900,000 Withdrawn preservation and extension of
River Trail
Construction of new restroom/
Kircher Park concession/equipment storage
CM00-099 2000 Renovations $360,000 Closed building, paved parking lot,
fencing improvements&
accessibility improvements
Develop an extension to the
Moores Park River Trail through the park
TF02-127 2002 Improvements $247,800 Closed with riverbank stabilization,
improved fishing access, and
canoelaunch
62 DRAF
04 RECREATION INVENTORY
CITY OF LANSING GRANT HISTORY
PROJECT APPLICATION
G PANT G PANT
NUMBER ♦ �
PPO PROJECT DESCRIP70N
AMOUNT STATUS
Southern extension of the
Lansing River Trail from
River Trail South Shubel Park to Hawk Island
TF03-106 2003 Extension $226,500 Closed County Park.Ten foot wide,
paved trail to connect
residential neighborhoods to
existing park land
Develop a 10 foot wide asphalt
River Trail South trail to include a 14 foot wide
TF04-078 2004 Extension $500,000 Closed bridge&site amenities which
provides 8,100 linear feet of
access to Sycamore Creek.
Develop a 10 foot wide,4,100
Lansing River Trail linear foot bituminous trail,
TF05-071 2005 South Extension $426500 Closed boardwalk& bridge along the
Sycamore Creek from Hawk
Island Park to Maguire Park.
I m provements to Hunter Park
Hunter Pool Pool including installation
TF06-050 2006 Renovation $500,000 Closed of splash park& upgrades to
existing pool with zero depth
entry
Acquisition of 28.47 acres
of property with 500 feet
Hunter's Ridge Land of frontage on the Grand
TF08-147 2008 Acquisition $785,300 Closed River to be used for walking
trails,wildlife viewing,fishing
opportunities& habitat
protection
Improvements to Crego
Park including permeable
TF10-050 2010 Crego Park $500,000 Closed pavement parking lot,
Development universally accessible kayak/
canoe launch,walking paths,
fishing docks&site amenities
Improvement to the River
TF12-019 2012 Frances Park Trail $300,000 Closed Trail including fishing docks,
Improvement benches, bike racks, &viewing
platform
Acquisition of a 9-acre parcel
located on the Grand River.
Lansing Boat Club The river front parcel will be
TF16-0081 2016 Acquisition $67,500 Closed incorporated into Fulton Park
& become a connection of
Hunters Ridge and Fulton
Parks.
DRAF63 C
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
CITY OF LANSING GRANT HISTORY
PROJECT APPLICATION PROJECTTITLE G PANT G PANT PROJECT DESCRIPTION 41
NUMBER YEAR AMOUNT STATUS
Improvement to the River Trail
TF17-0079 2017 Canoe/Kayak Launch $24,500 Closed including a canoe& kayak
at Moores Park launch below the dam along
the Grand River
Improvement to the River Trail
TF17-0090 2017 Canoe/Kayak Launch $33,600 Closed including a canoe& kayak
at Riverfront Park launch at the City Market in
downtown Lansing
Improvement to the River Trail
TF17-0098 2017 Canoe/Kayak Launch $24,500 Closed including a canoe& kayak
at Krugers Landing launch east of Potter Park on
the Red Cedar
Acquisition of this3.47 acre
parcel was incorporated into
East Willard Avenue $17 Scott Woods Park&gives the
TF18-0029 2018 Acquisition ,300 Closed City of Lansing the properties
on both sides of the trailhead at
the end of Willard Avenue
Wise Road Acquisition of this 0.59 acre
TF18-0030 2018 Acquisition $20,500 Withdrawn parcel that will be incorporated
into Davis Park
Cambridge to Improvement to the River
TF18-0033 2018 Frances Park River $300,000 Closed Trail including a third of a mile
Trail Connection extension of the River Trail
north of Frances
Hunter's Ridge Drive Acquisition of1.6 acres within
TF18-0133 2018 Acquisition $82,500 Closed Hunter's Ridge Park along the
Grand River
Acquisition oft acre to improve
Cavanaugh Road blighted stretch of the River
TF19-0003 2019 property $75,000 Withdrawn Trail. Structures on property
will be removed to improve
appearance.
East St.Joseph Acquisition of improved lot
TF19-0024 2019 Street Property $75,000 Withdrawn adding to Lansing's riverfront
park system
Acquisition of improved lot
TF19-0025 2019 River Street Property $60,000 Withdrawn adding to Lansing's riverfront
park system
Frances Park Improvements to historical
RP-210044 2021 Accessibility and $150,000 Closed shade structure,construction of
Shade Structure accessible pathways and ramp,
Improvements and landscaping
Construction of elevated deck/
Adado Riverfront boardwalk and observation
TF21-0031 2021 park Improvements $300,000 Closed area, bike racks, accessible
pathways, benches, and picnic
tables
64 DRAF
04 RECREATION INVENTORY
GRANTCITY OF LANSING O■
NUMBERPROJECT APPLICATION G PANT GRANT
YEAR PPOJECTTITAJ AMOUNT STATUS PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Development of 10-foot wide
Corporate ADA accessible pathway at
TF21-0142 2021 Research $300,000 PA Executed Forest Road Park Pathway
Park Path and heading south to connect
Development with existing non-motorized
facilities
Development of 1.7 miles
of ADA accessible pathway
TF21-0170 2021 Fenner Pathway $300,000 PA Executed connecting the Lansing
River Trail and the Bear Lake
Pathway to Fenner Nature
Center
Sycamore Creek Acquisition of3.47 acres
Land Acquisition adjacent to Sycamore
TF23-0032 2023 - Cavanaugh $300,000 Withdrawn Creek and the River Trail for
Road landscaping improvements
and potential trailhead use
Acquisition of 35 acres of
wooded natural area along
TF23-0043 2023 Waverly Road $500,000 PA Executed Waverly Road. Will provide
Acquisition additional parkland along the
South Lansing River Trail and
potential trailhead location
Frances River Lot Renovation of wooden decks
TF24-0013 2024 Improvements $400,000 PA Executed and railings with lightweight
concrete and cable railings
Increase the number of courts
TF25-0001 2025 Letts CC Tennis from Undetermined from 4 to 6 and installation
,
Courts Expansion of high performance court
surface
NS Parcel Acquire 4 parcels of Northfork
TF25-0025 2025 $400,000 Undetermined Southern along the Grand
Acquisitions River in downtown Lansing
RP25-0003 2025 Gier BMX Track $150,000 Undetermined Repair and replace BMX track
Improvements turns and starting gate.
AV Al_* ,
y Yrc"
-
_ a
65
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
NON-CITY OWNED RECREATION OPPORTUNITIES IN LANSING
Within the Lansing region there are a vast variety of other recreation opportunities for residents to
participate in.The list below includes both public and private spaces that provide a diverse range of
recreation options for those of all ages and abilities.
BILLIARDS DANCE AND GYMNASTICS
Nuthouse Sports Grill, Lansing Rising Star Studio of Dance Arts, Lansing
Coach's Pub and Grill, Lansing Patsy Watson School of Dance, Lansing
LeRoy's Classic Bar & Grill, Lansing In Motion Dance Center, Lansing
Art's Pub, Lansing Greater Lansing Academy of Dance, Lansing
The Green Door Bar &Grill, Lansing Dance City West, Lansing
Westgate Tavern &Grill, Lansing Red Cedar Gymnastics, Lansing
Midtown Brewing, Lansing Capital Cheer Legends, Lansing
Lucky's, Lansing WILDCATS Cheer Pride, Lansing
BOWLING FITN ESS AND YOGA
Royal Scot Golf& Bowl, Lansing Hilltop Yoga, Lansing
EmPOWer Lansing, Lansing
CAMPGROUNDS Just B Yoga, Lansing
Cottonwood Campground, Lansing Old Town Pilates, Lansing
Der Happy Hallow, Lansing FLEXcity Fitness, Lansing
I.Q. Fitness &Wellness Center, Lansing
CAMPS Westside Fitness, Lansing
Woldumar Nature Center, Lansing Court One Athletic Clubs, Lansing
Potter Park Zoo, Lansing YMCA, Lansing
YMCA, Lansing Elite Fitness, Lansing
M-43 Fitness, Lansing
CANOE/KAYAK RENTAL
River Town Adventures, Lansing GOLF COURSES: MINIATURE AND DISC
The Power of Water, Lansing Kramer-Ruthruff Disc Golf, Lansing
Zap Zone, Lansing
CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS Grand Woods Park Disc Golf, Lansing
Boys &Girls Club, Lansing
Lansing Spartans Youth Organization, Lansing GOLF COURSES: PRACTICE RANGES
Lions Clubs of Michigan, Lansing/surrounding Forest Akers West, Lansing
area Woodside Golf Course, Lansing
Rotary Club, Lansing and surrounding area Royal Scot, Lansing
American Legions Posts, Lansing/surrounding Westside Community YMCA
a rea
Kiwanis Club, Lansing and surrounding area GOLF COURSES: PRIVATE
Curling Club, Lansing Country Club of Lansing, Lansing
University Club, Lansing
Lansing Table Tennis, Lansing GOLF COURSES: PUBLIC
Lansing Boat Club, Lansing Chisholm Hills Golf Club, Lansing
Liederkranz Club, Lansing Royal Scot Golf, Lansing
Junior Achievement of Mid-Michigan, Lansing Woodside Course, Lansing
Capital Area Soccer, Lansing University Club of MSU, Lansing
Greater Lansing Aikido, Lansing
Tri-County Bike Association, Lansing MUSEUMS
Impression S, Lansing
Michigan Historical Museum, �i®
66 R.E. Olds Transportation Muse aAFT
04 RECREATION INVENTORY
NATURE CENTERS THEATERS: PERFORMING ARTS
Woldumar Nature Center, Lansing The Robin Theatre, Lansing
Riverwalk Theatre, Lansing
THEATERS: CINEMA LLC Dart Auditorium, LLC Campus, Lansing
NCG Cinema, Lansing Children's Ballet Theatre, Lansing
Celebration Cinema, Lansing Starlight Dinner Theatre, Lansing
Regal RPX, Lansing The Murder Mystery Company, Lansing
Xtreme, Lansing
SCHOOL FACILITIES
Collaboration between the City of Lansing and the Lansing School District is critical in providing
additional recreational facilities and opportunities.Typically, schools have recreational facilities
available for use and provide a number of programing options for students in the City. Below is
information of both the City of Lansing Public Schools and the private schools in the area.
CITY OF LANSING SCHOOL DISTRICT
The City of Lansing School District is the
5th largest school district in the State of
Michigan and covers an area of52 square
miles.The City of Lansing Public School
District serves over 10,000 students
ranging from pre-K through 12th grade. :
The school District includes 25 buildings.
Many of the school buildings have
recreation facilities for students to use such
as playgrounds and sports fields.The City
of Lansing School District and the Parks
and Recreation Department maintain
a relationship to provide high quality
recreation facilities to residents of the City.
More information about this partnership
can be found in Chapter 3.
OTHER SCHOOLS
In addition to the Lansing School District, ,,f
there a number of private and public ,,_.
academy schools that have recreation facilities within the Lansing region.These include parochial,
Montessori, and charter schools. Some of these schools include Cole Academy, Emmanuel
Lutheran School, Greater Lansing Adventist School, Hope Academy, Immaculate Heart of Mary/St.
Casimir, Lansing Baptist School, Lansing Catholic Central High School, Lansing Christian Schools,
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, and Windemere Park Charter Academy.
DRAF67T
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
REGIONAL PARKS AND RECREATION FACILITIES
In addition,to inventorying the parks and recreation opportunities available within the City of
Lansing it is important to review of County and State facilities that residents of the City may utilize.
Descriptions of these County and State recreation facilities are provided below.
COUNTY PARKS
BURCHFIELD PARK - INGHAM COUNTY
Burchfield Park is Ingham County's largest park at 540 acres of woods, trails and a beach.The
park includes the Riverbend Natural Area and McNamara Landing.The park is located along the
Grand River between Dimondale and Holt.This park includes miles of hiking and biking trails and
access to the Grand River Water Trail. Park amenities include two 18 hole disc golf courses, a beach,
bathhouse, canoe and kayak rentals, cross country skiing and rental, hiking trails, mountain biking
trails, picnic areas and shelters, playgrounds. sledding hills, softball diamond, volleyball court,winter
snack bar, and a winter warming lodge.
Riverbend Natural Area is located in the middle section of Burchfield Park.The natural area
contains nature trails that take hikers through mature forests, fields, and riverbank habitats.The
natural area also provides water access and a spot for cancers and kayakers to stop while exploring
the Grand River Water Trail. In the winter the entrance to natural area is closed.The trails in the
natural area are maintained for cross country skiing and can be accessed from McNamara Landing
or Burchfield Park.
McNamara Landing is at the south end of Burchfield Park.The trails in McNamara Landing travel
northward all the way to the north end Burchfield Park. NcNamara Landing has a universally
accessible canoe/kayak launch, parking, restrooms, and a pond.
HAWK ISLAND COUNTY PARK - INGHAM COUNTY
Hawk Island County Park located within the City of Lansing on Cavanaugh Road between
Pennsylvania Avenue and Aurelius Road.The Park includes amenities such as a swimming beach,
30 acre pond, bath house, boat rental, fishing with the lake stocked, picnic grounds and shelters,
playground,volleyball courts, ball diamonds, paved trails, a winter sports rental area and cross-
country skiing extending through the park.There are walkways on Cavanaugh Road leading to the
park. Hawk Island County Park is additionally adjacent to Soldan Dog Park. The dog park is a City
of Lansing Park that is maintained cooperatively with the Ingham County Parks Department.This
Park was built on the former Sablain's Gravel Co. site that was mined and used for cement.The park
was constructed with the help of a Michigan Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund Grant
and opened to the public in 2002.
68 DRAFT
04 RECREATION INVENTORY
LAKE LANSING PARK NORTH - INGHAM COUNTY
Lake Lansing Park North is located north of Lake Lansing and consists of 530 acres of recreation
areas,woods, and trails.A majority of the Park is located north of Lake Drive; only the boat launch
connects Lake Lansing to the Park.The park consists of a variety of natural environments such
as mature maple and oak woodlands, marshlands, and evergreen forests that can be accessed
through ten miles of trails and boardwalks.The park additionally contains a 2.4 mile trial loop that
is marked with interpretative signage.The park also offers a playground, basketball court, picnic
grounds and picnic shelters, cross country skiing, softball diamond, and boat launch.
LAKE LANSING PARK SOUTH - INGHAM COUNTY
Lake Lansing Park South consists of 30 acres of land on the west side of Lake Lansing with access
off of Marsh and Lake Lansing Roads.The park was previously an amusements park and the
carousel building has been preserved and remains on site. Park amenities include the beach,
amphitheater/band shell, pedal boat rental,volleyball courts, bath house, multi-purpose dock,
snack bar, playground, horseshoe pits, shuffleboard courts, and picnic areas and shelters.
POTTER PARK ZOO - INGHAM COUNTY
Description
Potter Park Zoo is located in Lansing, Michigan off of Pennsylvania Avenue. Potter Park Zoo is
owned by the City of Lansing, however it is operated and managed by Ingham County. In 2006, the
Potter Park Zoo Millage passed, which provides funding for the zoo from Ingham County residents.
The passage of the countywide zoo millage put both the funding and management of the zoo
under the County. Potter Park Zoo officially became a county run facility in 2007. Potter Park Zoo
is the oldest public zoo in Michigan with over 500 animals and 160 different species.The zoo is
accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and participates in over 40 Species
Survival Plans (SSP) designated to manage and conserve threatened or endangered animals.The
zoo is open to the public 264 days a year. In addition, the zoo veterinary team partners with the
Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine to provide medical care for its animals.
Mission
"Inspiring conservation of animals and the natural world."
Grants
Potter Park Zoo has received two grants . In 2019, a Lansing Neighborhood Grant of$3,220.40 was
received.This grant was used to plant native plants around the Tiger Den, install an accessible table
and bench for a dedicated quiet area, and installed an accessible grill near the Tiger Den. In 2020,
a ReLeaf grant of$1,500.00 was received for planting trees within the Zoo. A significant amount of
tree remediation and planting of native trees because of this grant.
Facilities
Potter Park spans 102 acres.The zoo accounts for 20 acres and the park is 82 acres. There are a
number of amenities that include picnic areas, play equipment, restrooms, parking, river frontage,
and a River Trail access point. In addition there are three rental facilities available in the park.These
include the Tiger Den,which has a capacity of300 people.The other two are the Eagle Landing,
capacity 80, and Penguin Cove, capacity 60. DRAFT
69
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
Programming
Programs at Potter Park Zoo are funded through the Potter Park Zoological Society.The Potter
Park Zoological Society is a private, 501 (c) 3, non-profit organization that supports Potter Park Zoo
through educational programming, public and private events, and fundraising.
The FALCONERS is a free program designed to allow children and adults of all ages with special
needs and unique challenges (such as autism or developmental disabilities) and their whole family
to have an enriching educational experience in a safe and welcoming environment. One event is
held each month throughout the year and is free for all to participate in.
The Zoo in your Neighborhood Program is a program that runs from May through September and
is designed to reach a more members of the community.Throughout this time period themed
presentations and Wild Tales (animal themed story times) are hosted in locations throughout the
Lansing Area such as libraries and community centers. In addition, community zoo passes are
available.These passes can be found at community partner locations.These passes can be checked
out for family's to visit Potter Park Zoo free with free admission and parking. After the visit, the
passes get returned to the community partner locations so others can use them.
Potter Park Zoo also offers K-12 programming.This includes Big Zoo Lesson, ERESA Animal Science
Class, and the Homeschool Zoo Crew.
Potter Park Zoo offers hour long guided tours covering a number of different topics of your
choosing ranging from animals, careers, and designing habitats.
During the summer, Potter Park Zoo offer the Zookambi Summer Camp. Half day and full day
weekly camps are available to choose from. Each week is based on different topics with topics
tailored to grade level to ensure all participants enjoying the experience and learn about varying
aspects of the animals and the Zoo.
STATE PARKS
SLEEPY HOLLOW STATE PARK
Sleepy Hollow State Park is operated by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. It
is approximately 2,678 acres located on Lake Ovid.Visitors can camp in the Park's modern
campground or cabins or spend the day.Amenities at the park include swimming beach, fishing
pier, restrooms, disc golf, playground, picnic areas, and boat rentals.The park offers 16 miles of
hiking and biking trails and an additional 12 miles of equestrian trails. During the appropriate
seasons, hunting and trapping can take place in the park. In the winter, the park is open to cross-
country skiing and snowmobiling.
ROSE LAKE WILDLIFE RESEARCH AREA
Rose Lake Wildlife Research Area is operated by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. It
is approximately 4,140 acres located in Bath and Woodhull Townships. The area contains a number
of lakes such as Potter Lake, Mud Lake, and Rose Lake. The research area provides opportunities to
view and study wildlife and habitats. In addition, hunting is allowed in the appropriate seasons, a
shooting range is available, and trails for hiking and mountain biking.
70 DRAFT
04 RECREATION INVENTORY
PROGRAM INVENTORY
The City of Lansing offers a variety of recreational programs to both residents of the City and
non-residents. Registration is available both online and in-person.The City offers scholarships for
low-income youth to participate in these programs. A complete inventory of Lansing recreational
programs is listed on the following pages.
CITY FUNDED PROGRAMS
SCHOLARSHIPS
The City of Lansing has partial scholarship available to City of Lansing residents who are under
18years of age and who meet Federal HUD low-income guidelines for the Lansing area.These
scholarships can be used for Parks and Recreation sponsored programs but do not include team
fees, supply costs, out of town trips, or one day activities.
AQUATICS FITNESS & WELLNESS
Youth Swim Lessons Boxing Fitness
Adult Swim Lessons Low Impact Aerobics
Open Swim (Indoor &Outdoor) Yoga
Lap Swimming Fitness Center
Enhanced Fitness
SCHOOL YEAR Zumba
After School Program (Grades K-6) Pound
Spring Break Camp Strength and Conditioning
Cardio Drumming
OPEN RECREATION Meditation
Teen Nights
Volleyball SPORTS
Basketball Floor Hockey (Youth League)
Pickleball Archery (Youth -Adult)
Table Tennis Sports Sampler (Youth)
Climbing Wall Volleyball (Youth &Adult)
Batting Tunnel Basketball (Youth)
Tennis (Youth Lessons-Adult Leagues)
DANCE Soccer (Youth)
Ballet Flag Football (Youth)
Acrobatics Tackle Football (Youth)
Latino Dance Cheer
Hustle Running Club
Line Dance Wrestling
Ballroom Dance Archery
Belly Dance (Beginning to Master) Softball (Youth and Adult)
Adult Baseball (Wooden Bat,Ages 30 & Over;
MARTIAL ARTS Ages 40 &over)
Karate for Kids Youth Baseball (Junior, Wildcat,Tee Ball)
Fa m i ly Ka rate
Adult Self Defense GENERAL ENRICHMENT
Judo/Jujitsu Travelogue
Aikido Technology Classes
TaeKwonDo Stage Combat
Classical Japanese Swordsmanship
DRAFT
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
SPECIAL PROGRAMS
Kids Camp Program/Field Trips
!l Easter Egg Hunt
Holiday Road Rally
�^ Leader in Training
Mayor's Annual Riverwalk and Run
Scavenger Hunt
4th of July Parade
Concerts in the Park
Drive-In Movie
Mother/Son & Daddy/Daughter Dance
Mayor's Senior Fair
Trick or Treat Trail
Holiday Nights of Lights
CO-SPONSORED CAPITAL AREA DISTRICT
TURNER-DODGE HOUSE LIBRARY (CADL) PROGRAMS
Public Visitor Hours Baby/Toddler/Family Story Time
Guided Tours, Tours &Tea Drop In Computer Sessions
Seasonal Teas Discussion Clubs
Wedding/Shower/Party Rentals Kids Crochet
Special Event Rentals Book Clubs
Festival of Trees STEAM Programs
Tea and Ballet
Live Music SENIORS
Victorian Halloween Tri-County Office on Aging - Meals on Wheels
Valentine Love & Chocolate Walking Program
Fairy Tale Festival Crafts
Festival of Trees Holiday Events
Billiards and Pool Tournament
VIRTUAL PROGRAMS Picnics
Belly Dance Trips
Tutoring Bingo
Card Games
Dominoes
PROGRAMS SUPPORTED AT CITY FACILITIES
PROGRAMS FUNDED THROUGH THE FRIENDS OF FENNER NATURE CENTER
Nature Education Tours Earth Day Extravaganza
Apple Butter Festival Maple Syrup Festival
Preschool Program Facility Rentals
Exploring Nature Programs Summer Camps
CITY OF 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 cleans 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 City hosts over 250
events each year. The following page is a list of just some of the events there are to participate in.
72 DRAFT
04 RECREATION INVENTORY
EVENTS RACES
Women's March Run for the Son
Recyclerama Hemlock 22 Mile Hike for Awareness of Veteran
Child-Abuse Prevention Awareness Day Suicide
Dapper Dads Fashion Show Multiple Sclerosis Walk
Common Ground Sparrow Michigan Mile
Stations of the Cross Hawk Island Triathalon
MI Cops Candlelight Ceremony Run for Fame
VOA Stand Down for Homeless Veterans Alzheimer's Walk
July 4th Celebration Capital City River Run
Car Capitol Auto Show Making Strides Against Breast Cancer
Taste of Downtown Crop Walk
Eucharist Procession Hot Cider Hustle
Chili Cook Off Silver Bells Parade &5K
Trick or Treat on the Square Lansing Turkey Trot
Spring Equinox Gathering St Patrick's Day Run
Community Easter Egg Hunt Twilight Run
Battlefield Brawl Epilepsy Summer Stroll 5K
Arbor Day Event Great Scrap Run
MSU Rowing Competition EC3 Family Fun Run
Lids for Kids PR Night Road Mile
Riverbank Traditional Pow Wow Super Bowl SK
Bike and Seek Blue Cross Winter Warm Up 5K
Donut Stop
FESTIVALS Hippity Hop 5K
Lumberjack Festival Rock Lansing 5K
Beerfest at the Ballpark Memorial Mile
Sikh Day Parade & Festival Miles for Moms
Cristo Key Festival Soles4Vets Memorial 5K Race
Margarita Festival Mayor's Riverwalk and Run
Juneteenth Parade and Festival Playmaker's Michigan Mile
Lansing Old Town Beer Fest Mighty Mile
Michigan Pride & Festival Hometown Half Marathon
Scrapfest Paper Chase
Michigan Jazz Fest Trail Town 5K
Art Feast All American 4 and 8 Mile
Reo Town Art Festival Ele's Race 5K
Michigan Chicken Wing Festival BWL Hometown Power 5K
Lansing Beerfest Summer Sizzler
Michigan Blues Fest Gourdy's Pumpkin Run
Oktoberfest Run for Fame 5K
Bridge Fest Step Up For Down Syndrome
Red Cedar Jubilee Big Brothers Big Sisters Miles for Mentorship
Lansing Fiesta and Carnival Race to Restore
Summer Solstice Jazz Festival Spooky Sprint
Taco and Tequila Festival Day of the Dead 5K
517 Hispanic Heritage Festival Woldumar Trails Run
5.01 Dam Jam Music Festival Candy Cane Course
Playmakers Holiday Classic 5K
DRAF73T
DRAFT
' Cc�nea�ta �
4111JUNEi1ENiHWFK1yp
05
< O
DRAFT
05 COMMUNITY INPUT
COMMUNITY INPUT
OVERVIEW
Community input is foundational to the development of a parks and recreation plan. Ideas,
recommendations, and concerns expressed by residents
are taken into consideration when the City looks at
creating the goals, objectives, and action plan for parks n
and recreation over the next five years.The City of Lansing
received input from community members in several ways ,
throughout the creation of this Plan.These included:
• ONLINE SURVEY- Februaryl8th through May2nd,
2025
• OPEN HOUSES:
Ward 1 -Tuesday, March 11, 2025, Foster Community
Center WE VALUE
Ward 2 -Thursday, March 13, 2025, Fenner Nature YOUR OPINION
Center The City of Lansing is updating
Ward 3 - Saturday, March 8, 2025, Schmidt its Parks and Recreation Plan. ❑■ , �
Community Center �•''
City is asking the community
Wa rd 4- Wed n esd ay, M a rc h 26, 2025, Letts j
13
Community Center take you no more than ten
• ONE MONTH REVIEW PERIOD - DATE through DATE minutes to complete.Your input SCAN ME
the Plan was posted on the City website and hard is greatly appreciated!
copies were available at each COMMUNITY CENTER
• PUBLIC HEARING - DATE an advertised public hearing
was held for the this Plan. Community members could
attend and provide comments about the Plan
METHODS OF PUBLIC OUTREACH
City of Lansing
The City advertised the Plan and public participation
opportunities in a number of ways.These included: WE
Flyers shown above and postcards were posted to the NEED
City's website, shared on social media sites, and in YOUR
person at community centers to advertise the survey ��
and the open houses throughout the course of the rrt���t
rxn�ntnn
public input period. P
A QR code and web domain, www.lansingsurvey.com,
were provided for the survey.
Targeted ads to residents were made over social
media to encourage participation of the survey as
depicted to the left.
CLICK HERETO TAKE 177
The City Parks and Recreation Director went on local
news stations to discuss the update to the Plan and rr
ways the community could participate.
News articles were posted about the public survey and open houses in local news outlets such
as WI LX.
Notice of30 day review period and public hearing was shared on DATE AND PUBLISHED IN XXX.
A public hearing for the draft Plan was held on DATE. DRAF77T
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
SURVEY
The survey received a total of346 responses and included 1S questions, with a mix of multiple
choice and short answer questions.The following review of the survey is a summary of the most
relevant survey results.To view a complete report of the survey results, please see Appendix A.
PARKS FIGURE 3 - PARK VISITS IN THE LASTYEAR
Never
Respondents were asked which parks they visit 3%
the most in the City.The most common answers
are listed below.
-51
1. Frances Park 0'
2. Moores Park
3. Crego Park
4. Potter Park
S. Fenner Nature Center 6-10
6. Scott Woods Park
7. Bancroft Park
8. Adado Riverfront Park
More than 10
Other frequent mentions were the Lansing River
Trail and Hawk Island County Park which is a
County Park located in the City. When asked how
frequently respondents visited City of Lansing
parks in the last year almost 70% had gone more
than 10 times.
It is important when deciding on parks and recreation improvements to understand why
residents use parks and recreation facilities. The top responses to this question by respondents
included parks that were close to home, the walking/biking/non-motorized paths available, natural
resources, and playgrounds.The survey asked respondents what parks and recreation facilities
they would like to see expanded or improved.The top response to this question was trails.This was
followed by public gardens, natural areas/shade, and nature centers. These questions could indicate
that community members both use and would like to see more natural facilities incorporated into
City parks that are accessible by trails. Similar results came out of open houses that community
members attended.The open house results can be viewed on page 82.
FIGURE 4 - REASON PARTICIPANTS USE CITY OF LANSING PARKS
80 75.6 72
70
60
50 46.1
40
30.7
30 24.4
19.9 18.4
20
7.2
10
0
on E
o
L N j L
O C a O N = LL
T U y
hp d H N LL N tCJ Q
U O r d
z 78 DRAFT
OS COMMUNITY INPUT
The survey asked what stops respondents from using City of Lansing parks, or from using them
more.This question informs the Parks and Recreation Department what they could improve to
boost visits and engagement in park facilities.Top responses to this question were lack of adequate
restrooms, safety issues, or the City does not have the facilities respondents wanted. Many people
wrote in responses to this question.The top responses included:
Safety concerns while at park facilities
Maintenance and cleanliness
Access to the park facilities and connectivity
Lack of amenities and infrastructure
The responses received from these questions match many of the comments received during the
open houses. Updates and improvements to parks could be made with these factors in mind to
potentially boost park usage throughout the City.
FIGURE S - FACTORS THAT LIMIT PARK USAGE
45 41.2
38.9
40
35 33.1
30
24.3 23.3
25
20
15 88
10 7.8 7.4
5
0
°o 0
3 c v
y, Ol O V f0
aj N
N N V i Y N E
Q. O)L t6 V w C i L L+
3 6 p
Ol p .N N +L+ U
N aL+ 3 Ul T 71 a w
O L V
R yO fo O aL.+
U L N N O
J Y Y = N 7
C 2 O
O m 2
TRAILS
FIGURE 6 - TYPES OF TRAILS
A few questions in the survey were directed at
Regional water
non-motorized paths in the City.A question was trails(ex.Red
asked about what types of non-motorized paths cedar and Grand other-Write In
River Water Trails) 3%
respondents typically use.The top response was 4% N -_
regional hard surface trails.This response correlates
I don't use trail
rF
with one of the earlier questions asked in the survey, systems
"which park do you visit most?"The responses to that 7%
question showed the Lansing River Trail as one of the
more popular park facilities.Additionally, during the
open houses guests indicated that the Lansing River Regional hard
Trail is highly valuable in the Lansing parks system. surface trails(ex.
Other responses to this question can be seen in the Trails within parks Lansing RiverTrail)
figure to the right.
Respondents were asked how frequently the trails are
used.The responses were as follows.
Daily (12%) Quarterly (7%)
Weekly (40%) A few times a year
Monthly (26%) (16%) DRAF79T
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
PROGRAMMING
The City of Lansing currently provides programming opportunities for residents and guests to
participate in.The survey asked what types of parks and recreation programs the respondents and
their families take part in.The top responses included:
None (41%)
Special events (27.8%)
Sports both adult and youth (22%)
Community Center open activities (20%)
Fitness programs (17%)
Understanding what limits people from using City of Lansing recreation programs is also valuable
information that could be used to help boost participation in the future.The responses asking
why respondents do not use Lansing regional programs are provided below in Figure 7.The top
response to this question was that people feel they do not know enough about the programs,
which may explain why 40% of people in the previous question responded that they do not
participate in recreational programs.The survey asked what the best way to be notified of activities
and services offered by the department is.The responses to this question were:
Social media (64%)
Website (S3%)
Parks and recreation guide (S2%)
E-mail (46%)
Direct mail (29%)
Signage (29%)
E-newsletter (26.7%)
To help boost awareness of recreation programs to attain higher participation,the City could invest
additional resources to boost engagement on social media and the parks and recreation website to
spread additional knowledge of programs and activities available.
FIGURE 7 - REASON PARTICIPANTS STOP USING RECREATIONAL PROGRAMS
45 41.4
40
35
30
25 23 21.4 20.4
2 18.4
0
15 13.6 12
10
5 3.2
0
� �
O N N i Qj
41 O O O u
C
o v ) C O Qj
u Q E
3 y v E t o �' v
o > v �,
Y O u O
O
Y + Z O ^ + ro
8U Q
DRAFT
05 COMMUNITY INPUT
PARKS MILLAGE WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST?
The City of Lansing Park Millage is used to help continue to
provide a well-maintained parks system to the residents of - are lots of options
Lansing. Survey respondents were asked how they think the for .. The River Trail is
Park Millage money should be used and could choose one of the an excellent r- . - and is
three options below. maintained -
Park improvements (54%) "Substantial recreation space
Park maintenance (30%) availablethroughout. -
Recreational programs (17%) Fantastic trail system
• - in many areas
ACCESSIBILITY helpful _ to stay aware of
It is critical that people of all abilities have access and the ability your location. Great for running
to use the parks and recreation facilities and programs offered and training!"
by the City.The survey asked what changes could be made to _ _
t into
make parks and trails easier and more enjoyable to use if you or opportunity nature � �_
your family member has a disability.The responses included: "The many options and variety."
� breathe
Accessible restrooms (36%)
Paved/hard surface trails (34%) _
• Sensory gardens (25%) connection continued_ trail growth '_ �
Flatter, easier grades (22%)
Accessible parking spaces (22%) activities
Accessible playgrounds (20%) "Programscater to everyone."
These are improvements that should be focused on when
designing park and trail improvements to make City facilities WHAT WOULD YOU IMPPOVE?
more inclusive for those of all abilities. Some respondents of the
survey listed accessibility as a limiting factor to park usage. "Safety. Sometimes __
MISCELLANEOUS safe at certain parks if I go alone."
Respondents were also asked two short answer questions. "Keeping up
with trail
The first question asked what respondents like most about maintenance. Add more
kayak
parks and recreation within the City.The answers could be launch ••
summarized into the following themes: "Increase maintenance support."
The Lansing River Trail and connectivity it provides
Large number and variety of parks in the City that suit all "Additional •
different needs •- - able •a •
Never too far from a park in the City and there are parks in gardens, restrooms, - •
trash
most neighborhoods
The second question asked respondents what they would do "Proper ' ' in and around
to improve parks and recreation in the City.The answers can be the parks including parking lot
summarized into the following themes:
Maintenance and cleanliness of park spaces "Additional enrichment and
Increased bathroom access along trails and in parks fitness programs fora•
Safety and security such as increased lighting
ns
Recreation facilities updates, for example playground "Increase • •
between - -improvements
Improved connectivity between neighborhoods and park ��
facilities g,
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
OPEN HOUSES
Throughout the month of March, 2025, the City PARKS AND RECREATION
of Lansing hosted four open houses to gain COMMUNITY ' SESSION
additional feedback from residents on parks and
recreation facilities within the City. One open
house was conducted In each Ward of the City. loin us for a community input session to give your thoughts
The dates times and locations of the open houses and ideas on the Parks and Recreation Five-Year Master Plan.
are presented below. Your ideas can help guide the future of our parks.
WARD 1: FOSTER COMMUNITY CENTER JOIN
Date: March 11, 2025 FENNER NATURE CENTER
Time: 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM
1ATE: MARCH 13, 2025
WARD 3: SCHMIDT COMMUNITY CENTER
Date: March 8, 2025 1 I ' 1 '
Time:12:00 PM - 2:30 PM
WARD 2: FENNER NATURE CENTER ADDRESS: 2I 1 E MT. HOPE
Date: March 13, 2025 LANSING, MI 48910
Time: 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM
WARD 4: LETTS COMMUNITY CENTER TO TAKE THE PARKS" ' PLAN SURVEY,
Date: March 26, 2025 PLEASE VISIT:
01 i PLP �-+
Time: 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM LANSING aody,.ayor
At each of the open houses, City staff and consultants engaged with community members,
seeking their feedback on the City of Lansing's parks and recreation system. Community members
were engaged on topics of parks within the City and more specifically in each Ward, non-motorized
transportation options, and improvements or additions they would like to see to the City's parks
and recreation system. Each open house had four stations to participate in.
4111a
STATION ONE: WELCOME
This was the first place guests stopped when entering
the open houses. Guests signed in and were told about
each station they could participate in. Guests were also
vVELCOMIE TO T#E OTEN 440(AS'E encouraged to scan the QR code of the welcome board to
CITY OF LANSING PARKS& take the community input survey.
RECREATION MASTER PLAN
WE ARE GLAD YOU'RE HERE!
The City of Lansing Parks and Recreation Department o In the process of updating Its Parks
and creation Master Plan The Marter Plan will help gold,parks and recreation decisions
within the City for the next five years.Your input and feedback will help drive decision,within
your comrounm. .. ....
WHAT TO DO TODAY
LEARN MORE:Checkout each display to view park facilities in the community and provide your
thoughts on whatZture amenities you would like to see.
SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS:Fill out a short survey,nd chat with our team.
TAKE THE SURVEY I y� Y 11
Scanthe QRcodeorvisitwww.lansingsurvey.comtotakethesurvey. J
The survey is open until April 30,2025. --
OW�I�
82 r Ward 2 Open House: Fenner Nature Cent
05 COMMUNITY INPUT
STATION TWO: CITY WIDE PARK FACILITIES
Station two focused on improvements or additions to park Options
facilities that would be tailored to the City as a whole.These
were generally larger amenities that would draw guests Dog Park
from across the city. Guests at each open house were given Food Truck Court
dots and asked to place a dot next to the amenity they Multi-Purpose Pavilion/Festival Area
would most like to see. Splash Pad
Musical Instruments
Interactive Art
Results
1 Following the completion of all four
open houses, the dots were tallied.
Below is the list of amenities in order
INTERPRETIVE SIGNAGE SMALL SHADE STRUCTURES --�FITNESSEQUIPMENT from most to least chosen.
1. Multi-Purpose Pavilion/Festival
f Area
2. Food Truck Court
3. Splash Pad
COMMUNITYGARDENS
EARTHEN PLAYGROUNDS • MULI-GENERATIONAL ACTIVITIES 4. Musical Instruments
S. Interactive Art
W ' 6. Dog Park
STATION THREE: WARD SPECIFIC PARK FACILITIES
Station three was set up similar to that of station two. Results
However,this station focused on smaller improvements
that guests would like to see within their Ward.This Following the completion of all four
station had two boards of amenities to review. Guests were open houses, the dots were tallied.
encouraged to place one dot on each board indicating Below is the list of amenities in order
their preferences. Alongside these images, a map of the from most to least chosen.
ward was displayed with the parks and non-motorized
paths available for reference and additional discussion. 1. Rain/Pollinator Gardens with
Wa I kways
2. Earthen Playgrounds
GOOD 3. Tree Planting/Grove
JUDGMEM,T
- 4. Small Shade Structures
S. Community Gardens
- _- 6. Sustainable Art Lighting
7. Multi-Generational Activities
8. Fitness Equipment
_ 9. River Access
10. Community Center Upgrades
11. River Overlook
12. Interpretive Sig nage
Ward 4 Open House: Letts Community Center DRAF83T
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
STATION FOUR : NON-MOTORIZED
TRANSPORTATION
Station four was the last formal station at the
open houses.The goal of this station was to
discuss non-motorized transportation with
guests and learn what they use and where they
believe gaps are located.This station had a
map of the City showcasing the Lansing River
Trail, other non-motorized paths/connections,
and City parks. Discussion was focused on
where connectivity to parks and other centers
of activity in the City could be improved with
future expansions of the River Trail and where
biking facilities could be improved.
Ward 3 Open House: Schmidt Community Center
GENERAL OPEN HOUSE FEEDBACK
Throughout the duration of the open houses,
City staff and consultants were available to have
general conversations with guests outside of
the four stations about the parks and recreation
system in the City. Guests could discuss
anything they believed should be heard related
to parks and recreation in the City. Common I�
thoughts expressed by multiple guests are
displayed below.
Expand the connectivity of the trail and
non-motorized transportation system
within the City to connect to more
locations, both within the City and into
neighboring communities.
Increase park maintenance, especially of Ward 1 Open House: Foster Community Center
the River Trail, during the winter months.
Increase safety measures, such as lighting,
in parks and trails throughout the City.
Promote the preservation of natural
habitats and provide more native plants
throughout parks in the City.
Increase signage both in and around
parks.
Focus on the beautification of parks =_
spaces such as placemaking elements and
more frequent trash and debris cleanups.
Expand safe biking opportunities and
facilities throughout the City that provide
connections to centers of activity in the
City.
Ward 3 Open House: Schmidt DRAFT
84
OS COMMUNITY INPUT
SUMMARY
The public input collected during the community input survey and open houses provided valuable
feedback for the City. It informs City staff how users feel about parks and recreation facilities in the
City and what they envision for the future of parks and recreation.This feedback is used by City staff
and the Park Board to create meaningful and realistic goals and objectives.The survey results and
open house feedback provided comments on all aspects of parks and recreation in the City. Many
similar themes came out of all the public input opportunities. Highlights of these include:
CONNECTIVITY: Many people love the trail system in the City, and many would love to see this
system to continue to be expanded. Expansion was desired in many ways, including: connectivity to
other City park facilities, community destinations, and continued expansion and coordination with
surrounding communities. In addition, many would love to see the biking facilities improved within
the City. Increased biking facilities, such as bike lanes, that provide connections to trails would allow
safer non-motorized routes and easier accessibility throughout the City.
MAINTENANCE: While most residents like the facilities within the City, some feel the maintenance
of these spaces could be improved. Feedback included more frequent mowing of parks and more
frequent trash and debris clean up. Another recommendation was focused on winter park and trail
maintenance, such as better and more frequent snow clearing of the trails.
GREEN SPACES/NATIVE PLANTS: Many people commented on enjoying all of the green spaces
throughout the City. Many believe this should continue to be a focus in parks.Additionally,
promoting the use of native plants and trees throughout parks and in the City was frequently
mentioned.
PLACEMAKING:There were many recommendations made by people that could be categorized
as placemaking. Additional signage throughout parks and identifying parks was recommended.
Increased lighting throughout parks, trails, and parking areas to promote a sense of safety
especially during dark,winter months was recommended. Adding additional restroom facilities,
benches, picnic tables, and art were all recommended and create that sense of place and promote
the use of the facilities.
Ward 3 Open House: Schmidt Community Center Ward 4 Open House: Letts CortF5T
DRAFT
Z
Q
J
a
z
O
F
u
Q
06
W
w
L LU
DRAFT
06 GOALS , OBJECTIVES, &ACTION PLAN
GOALS, OBJECTIVES, & ACTION PLAN
INTRODUCTION
Goals, objectives, and the action plan area helpful framework used by the City to measure progress
and change made to the Lansing parks system over time. Goals are long-term outcomes that the
City would like to achieve in the future and objectives are generally more specific, measurable
items that will help the City work toward its goal.The goals and objectives presented in this
Plan take into account the other planning initiatives and goals throughout City documents and
feedback heard from City residents and those who use the parks system.This provides the City with
a cohesive vision in the future. Lastly, action items are the smallest and most specific unit in this
framework.These are the specific projects or programs the City would like to complete over the
five (5) years to work toward accomplishing the goals and objectives. Presented in this chapter are
the goals, objectives, and actions developed by the City throughout this process.
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
Below are the goals and objectives created for this recreation plan. Many goals and objectives were
identified through this process.The goals and objectives have been numbered for ease of use and
discussion. These numbers do not reflect any particular priority. Rationale has been provided as to
why each goal is important to parks and recreation in the City of Lansing.
GOAL I: CONNECTED
Rationale:The Lansing parks should be part of the fabric of the City.All residents should easily
be able to travel to a nearby park, as spending time outdoors can have positive effects on one's
health and provide opportunities to connect with one's neighbors. The goal is about making
improvements to make it easier to get to parks via walking, biking, or transit and reducing the
reliance on private automobile transportation.This encourages an active,walkable community.
OBJECTIVE A: Improve access to parks to those traveling by transit, biking, and walking.
OBJECTIVE B: Continue expansion of the Lansing River Trail throughout the City of Lansing
and coordinate with surrounding jurisdictions to continue the expansion of the River Trail to
connect to larger regional trails and recreation opportunities.
OBJECTIVE C: Identify current natural areas throughout the City for acquisition, especially near
waterfronts, parklands, or other natural areas currently owned by the City of Lansing.
OBJECTIVE D: Expand Fulton-Fine-Hunters Ridge off road biking and hiking trails utilizing
Lansing School District property.
OBJECTIVE E: Partner with Ingham County for trail connections and maintenance of adjacent
properties.
OBJECTIVE F: Partner with Delta Township to connect Fulton-Fine-Hunters Ridge Park to
Anderson Park across the Grand River.
OBJECTIVE G: Continue to expand the trail and sidewalk system to provide access to additional
parks and recreational facilities throughout the City.
OBJECTIVE H: Ensure all City residents live near parks by finding where parks are missing and
acquiring land to fill gaps where needed.
OBJECTIVE I: Complete connectivity study to determine where connections in sidewalks and
bike facilities could be improved and coordinate improvements with regional goals outlined in
the Greater Lansing Trail Plan and the Lansing Non-Motorized Transportation Plan.
DRAF89T
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
GOAL II: ACCESSIBLE
Rationale:All programming, events, and amenities within the Lansing parks system should be
known to every citizen.The goal is about making it easier to know what is happening within the
park system, making it easier to register for events and classes, and ensuring the programming
reflects the needs of the community.
OBJECTIVE A: Improve communication and processes regarding events, programming, and
facility improvements available to Lansing residents.
OBJECTIVE B: Establish a plan to improve access to parks and facilities for those with
disabilities to ensure age, ability, and income are not obstacles to parks and recreation facilities
and programs.
OBJECTIVE C: Reach out to the refugee community, and other potential new users, to
determine recreational needs.
GOAL III: RESILIENCY
Rationale:The Lansing parks system needs to ensure that the effects of our changing world are
planned for to ensure that parks can continue to serve the needs of the City.As the effects of
climate change continue to worsen, improvements to the parks should be made with an eye to the
future.
OBJECTIVE A: Identify options to offer different and OF s 4;
increased programs outside throughout the year. i
OBJECTIVE B: Identify and create additional
programs for those with special needs and aging
populations.
OBJECTIVE C: Establish plans for healthy lifestyle ?
drop-in facilities.
OBJECTIVE D: Protect the ecosystem by improving
or adding tree canopy, focus on planting species
native to Michigan, and protecting or enhancing
natural areas.
OBJECTIVE E: Utilize parkland for storm water
management and enhancement of park amenities.
OBJECTIVE F: Minimize impervious areas on new
projects. _
OBJECTIVE G: Work with the Planning Commission = r>
to promote green space or park areas within large =�-
new developments as a way to give back to the _
community and provide additional opportunities
for recreational spaces dispersed throughout the T '�
city.
OBJECTIVE H: Provide programming to teach the
importance of how green space and recreational
facilities can help promote healthy and climate
resilient cities.
90 DRAFT
06 GOALS , OBJECTIVES, &ACTION PLAN
GOAL IV: DIVERSIFIED
Rationale:The Lansing parks system needs to understand how it can better serve communities
within the City impacted by systemic racism. An equity assessment would allow the City
to understand where programming and improvements could be made to better serve the
surrounding communities.There are many organizations within the City that can help provide the
programming needed as the recreation needs of the community change over time. Every resident
in the City should have access to the Lansing parks system and programming regardless of one's
age, ability, or income.
OBJECTIVE A: Conduct an equity assessment to understand how facilities and programming
are distributed.
OBJECTIVE B: Partner with Lansing School District to offer recreational programming.
OBJECTIVE C: Partner with organizations to fund and continue to develop the downtown and
riverfront community, especially the Capital Region Community Foundation (Our Community)
for development from 1-496 to the dam at Burchard Park in north Lansing.
OBJECTIVE D: Partner with the Lansing Parks Foundation to assist with capital improvements
projects.
OBJECTIVE E: Provide additional programming opportunities for older adults such as a chair
volleyball league.
OBJECTIVE F: Continue to provide and expand upon the inclusive recreational programming
options provided in the City to ensure that all those who wish to participate are able regardless
of age or ability.
GOAL V: PLACEMAKING
Rationale:To promote the use of parklands and recreational facilities throughout the City, it is
critical that these spaces are inviting and functional for guests. Elements such as lighting, signage,
and seating make spaces more usable for guests.These elements additionally promote a sense of
place and give the facilities an identify.
OBJECTIVE A: Identify parks and spots along the River Trail for small investments to specifically
improve health, happiness, and well-being.
OBJECTIVE B: Increase targeted and environmentally sustainable lighting in and around parks
and trails to increase safety for users.
OBJECTIVE C: Update park facilities and trails throughout the City to include coordinating
signage throughout the parkland, educational materials/signage, and location signage to
improve knowledge and ease of use for guests.
Objective D: Continue to assess and prioritize maintenance concerns and litter removal in
order to provide clean and safe facilities and grounds.
DRAFT
2026 - 2030 CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN
ACTION PLAN
An action plan is a tool that showcases specific actions a community intends to take that will
implement the goals and vision that community has created for parks and recreation.These are
actions the City intends to take in the next five years.The foundation for the following actions
was the information gathered through the Parks and Recreation survey, open houses, city-wide
planning efforts, demographic data, land use trends, and recreation master plans from adjacent
communities.The actions are not listed in any particular order and subject to the availability of
funding through the Lansing Parks Millage, General Fund, DNR grant funding, and the approval of
the Lansing Parks Board, Mayor, and City Council.
The action plan is divided into two separate focus areas including the capital improvements
projects and planning projects. Capital improvement projects were identified as meeting the goals
and objectives of this Plan, are grant eligible, are capable of being completed in the next five years,
and are included in the Capital Improvements Schedule. Master Plans, studies, and marketing
strategies that meet the goals and objectives of this Plan will be funded through the Parks Millage,
General Fund, and partnerships;these are considered the planning projects.
The Parks and Recreation 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, neighborhoods park renovations, repair and maintenance, and capital improvement
projects that are not grant eligible. For example, everyyear funds are allocated for improvements
or replacement of multiple neighborhood playgrounds.These items are not included in the Capital
Improvements 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 DNR grant funds.
Below is a list of capital improvement projects planned for the next five (S) years that could be
grant eligible:
FUTON PARK: Construct path across the river to connect to Anderson Park or Woldumar Nature
Center in Delta Township
FRANCES PARK: Repair decking and docks at the overlook parking lot. Replace the trail between
the two docks and make repairs to the overlook parking lot.
TREES: Continue to plant new and replace removed trees in city parks throughout the city aligning
with our climate sustainability plan. Examine if tree removals can be used for board lumber.
WENTWORTH PARK: Replace the fence along east side of park to safely separate the park from river
and steam pipe. Connect the River Trail to the NE corner of Michigan and Grand.
DOG PARK: Establish an off-leash dog park in the downtown Lansing or other parks based on need.
COMMUNITY CENTERS: Upgrade flooring, lighting, doors, HVAC, etc. Replace steps at Gier Center.
FENNER NATURE CENTER: Repair decking/dock from the visitor's center to the pond on the east
side of the building. Look to replace the septic system at the Visitor center as special events stress
the system. Repair and/or replace Maple Grove Pavilion.
HUNTERS RIDGE PARK: Installation of an ADA accessible canoe/kayak launch.
92 DRAFT
06 GOALS , OBJECTIVES, &ACTION PLAN
FRANCES PARK: Construct and install an open to the public cricket field.
MARSCOT PARK: Repair and upgrade the current basketball court.
MOORES PARK: Repair and upgrade the tennis courts for tennis and/or pickleball.
QUENTIN PARK: Repair and upgrade the tennis courts for tennis and/or pickleball.
MARSHALL PARK: Installation of a basketball court complex.
RIVERPOINT PARK: Installation of a fishing dock at the confluent of the Grand and Red Cedar rivers.
BuRCHARD PARK: Installation of shade sail over Fish Ladder Music Park.
COMSTOCK PARK: Renovations and upgrades to the existing community building and field for
either soccer or rugby.
REUTTER PARK: Repair of historic fountain.
RIVER TRAIL AT ELM PARK: Replace trail bridge under Elm Street with at grade trail extension that
does not need to go over the Red Cedar River.
RIVER TRAIL: Add lighting along the trail to connect REO Town to Old Town and extension of the
west side of the trail in the downtown to connect from Kalamazoo north to Oakland Avenue.
POTTER PARK: Potter Park Zoo is managed by Ingham County, but owned by the City of Lansing,
and county upgrades will be included in the City of Lansing plan.
GRAND AND RED CEDAR RIVERS: Clean up debris and log jams to provide accessibility and
eliminate safety hazards.
PAVING PROJECTS: Parking lot repairs at Fenner Nature Center, North, Evergreen and Mt. Hope
Cemeteries, Gier BMX track parking lot, and other park facilities.
FINE PARK: Acquire land the Lansing School District owns, approximately 66 acres east of Fine Park.
RIVER TRAIL: Acquire 33 acres of land to extend the Lansing River Trail west of Waverly Road to
connect our residents in southwest Lansing.
INDOOR ICE ARENA: Build an indoor ice arena as there are currently only sheets of ice in the
area and no ice surfaces for Lansing residents except for the synthetic ice rink currently in the
downtown.
SPLASH PAD PLAY AREA: Create splash pad play area in parks.There are currently splash pads at
Hunter Park and Hawk Island Park (Ingham County Park Facility).
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.
DRAF93T
DRAFT
i
�s�ic��� e i°�•'��IFs`f�s'�
SIR
pp SS I
�� 'Nv ;�'�:;it��,rn r.tap' :•-/I �l
LU
pht -,I I v's 4,t OM Wo
If
AMA
an •o'9r r�,1 e' /
Pill _ f.; Au-.;� %'3 b Y•AV s ai ice. •1r4 s�' in
I T
--
- r '
�� `n� ��"� �✓„y'rl��+ wy.2 1�;'"� Itl�+ K�
_ �•' _yr"� ��`%11,. @e s�'-�'���s�������1� �C I, �I i �..�L lal�� ,"��ri'�} t+�I 1^ , ��; 1 ii c j� l I \.�4A`A�t
�" yy _� �,.,�✓ .f ,s,z SA , ��I��al °<, d ail, l� i /� - \; � ,
T�
- -a:,.M=f�"�;��*�xr,��{ ,'•Y, •+'h!,� k�:.'�. 'tiara_,` �'�� 1`� (•+��'�; �.:\, _ -�t u i __- � ,�
-i-.. y (� �. 7 •F*h ter." _ `f �S` :u:..- :
oeg
,/ !,A•�I:.M ,p..ram 73'� �.�IJ- ,1 1 l,+n�! (��" „• d. i; 1' - ` $ '_ �
h A
�ft 0
DRAFT
07 PLANNING PROCESS
PLANNING PROCESS
The City of Lansing has undertaken the process of updating its five year Parks and Recreation
Master Plan to inventory current recreation opportunities in the City, gather community feedback
on the state of parks and recreation facilities in the City, and develop goals, objectives, and an action
plan for the City to work on through 2030. This Parks and Recreation Master Plan will be used as
a guide for the development and improvement of parks and recreation facilities and programs in
the City over the course of the next five years. From this Plan,the City of Lansing will continue to be
eligible for grants provided from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to assist the City in
reaching the recreational goals outlined in this Plan.
DNR requires Parks and Recreation Plans plans to include specific information.This includes a
community description, administrative structure for parks and recreation in the City, an inventory
of parks and recreation facilities, goals and objectives, action plan, and community input.The DNR
requires multiple forms of public input during the planning process. These include early public
input such as a survey, a 30-day review period, and an advertised public hearing. The City of Lansing
exceeded the required input needed and additionally hosted four open houses in conjunction with
the community wide survey, public review period, and public hearing.
The City of Lansing contracted with Spicer Group to assist with the development of the Plan. Spicer
Group consultants met with City of Lansing Parks and Recreation Department staff, Park Board
Members, and City officials throughout 2025 while working on this Plan.
During the spring of 2025, data was collected about the City of Lansing including demographic
information, mapping data, and inventory of the parks and recreational facilities throughout
the City.This data was gathered from numerous resources including Parks and Recreation
Department staff, Information Technology Department, Park Board members, City officials and a
thorough review of the 2020-2025 City of Lansing Parks and Recreation Plan.
Numerous opportunities for public participation and input were available throughout the
development of this Plan in 2025. A survey was available for residents to participate starting in
March and closing in April in addition to four open houses that were held throughout the month
of March. Afull summary of the public input gathered for this Plan can be found in Chapter S.
The public input gathered from survey and open houses as well as existing knowledge from the
Parks and Recreation Department and Parks Board were used to develop the goals and objectives
outlined in this Plan. A draft of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan was finished in MONTH,
YEAR.The Draft Master Plan was available for review at LOCATION and the City of Lansing website.
The Plan was out for review by the public from DATE to DATE and was publicized on the City of
Lansing website and Facebook pages.The final opportunity for community input occurred at the
public hearing held on DATE at PLACE and occurred prior to the adoption of the Plan by the City.
Following the Public hearing............FINISH WRITING ADOPTION PROCESS.................The Plan was
uploaded to the DNR for approval in MONTH, YEAR. Copies of the advertisement notifications,
public hearing minutes, and the resolution of adoption are included in Appendix XXX.
DRAF97T
DRAFT
a
�t It v: LU
R
a-
s
}r
LU
1
a 'mun sty f n put ResV,.t,1t$
W!t
Troll
ps. a
�rdcpt.jr: t tat� a n �g
r �t_ - -
rye v "� .�y • � � v E
�rr ♦- si � r � �I�
A -
' ;�;p� 4 ♦ z yin f� �-rl �,L nt xr s M �
1 �
i
LLJ
Ln
i
£ c
NOp• t M ;" , � ��. .. ,d' E-E BANG' s r�i
fl.�� � ,FATRER OF L NSIN6 g pARK
Report for City of Lansing Recreation Plan
Response Counts
Completion Rate: 100%
Complete 346
Totals: 346
DRAFT
1. List the 3 City of Lansing parks you visit the most, starting with the one
you visit most.
riverfront center trail quentin
moores scott
island
hawl.- st k01
adado arriver
ottercregofrances r
pbenjamin moore'sbancroft
ResponselD Response
2 Bancroft Park, Fulton Park, Fine Park
3 Ferris, Frances, Adado
4 River Trail, Moores Park, Crego
5 Francis Park, Moores Park,the entire River Trail
6 Beck, Fenner, Bluebell
7 Beck, Fenner, Bluebell
8 LettsFrances
9 Letts, Frances, Fenner
10 Fairview, Bancroft, Hawk Island, Potter park/Crego/Scotts woods
11 River trail, bancroft, Crego
12 Fairview, Fenner, kimberly
13 Armory Park, River Trial, Stabenow Park
14 Francis, Quentin, Moores
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
15 Hawk Island, Soldan Dog Park
16 My wife and I don't really use the parks, but we run through many of them on the river
trail
17 Moore's Park, Potter Park, Francis Park
18 Lansing River Trail, Groesbeck Golf Course, Armory Park
19 Poxson, Potter Park, Hawk Island
20 Hawk Island, Moores Park, Scott Woods
21 Stabanow
22 Hunter Park, Hawk Island, Moore's River Park
23 Hawk Island Moore's River Park Francis Park
24 Moores Park, RiverPoint Park, Frances Park
25 Moores Park, Frances Park, Cooley Gardens
26 Potter park
28 Hawk island, Hunter and Frances
29 Rotary,Adado Riverfront,Turner Mini
30 Gier, Frances, Quinton
31 Hawk island,Adado, Frances park
32 Benjamin Davis Francis Park and Hawk Island
33 Riverside, Fenner, Frances
34 Hawk Island, Frances, and Potter Park
35 Poxson, Hawk Island, Scott Woods
36 Scott Woods, Frances, Moores
37 Francis Park, Clifford Park, Fenner Park
38 None
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
39 Cooley Gardens
40 Kendon, Risdale
41 Scotts Woods, Hawk Island, Fenner Nature Center
42 Marshall park, Risedale park, Benjamin Davis
43 St Joesph Park
44 Hawk Island, Scott Woods, Crego
45 River Trail, Fish Ladder
46 gross beck, potter park, hope
47 Gier, Adado,Tecumseh
48 Tecumseh, Wilson, Francis
50 Ferris Par,Adado Riverfront Park, Reutter Park
51 Winch Park, Ferguson Park, Lake Lansing Park
52 Wonch, Ferguson, Lake Lansing
53 Davis, McKinch, Moores
54 Fenner, Woldumar, Moores Park
55 Moores River
56 Hawk Island
57 Gier, Filley Street Park, Hawk Island
58 Hawk Island, Crego,Adado
59 River Point, Moore's Park,Adado/Play Michigan
60 River Point, Moores, Cooley Gardens
61 Quentin, Francis, and Moores Parks.
62 The gardens behind Turner Dodge house, River trail from Old Town area through south
of 496, Fenner
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
63 Gier,Tecumseh, Hawk Island
65 Hawk Island, Frances, Crego
66 Bancroft park, Groesbeck Golf Course, Riverfront Park
67 Frances Park, Potter Park Zoo, Hawk Island
68 Bancroft Park, Burchard Park (East of river),Adado Riverfront Park
69 potter park zoo,hook hand mores park
71 Potter park, Hawk Island, Cavanaugh
72 stjoeseph, hiLLsdale, and potter park
73 Potter Park Zoo
74 BLUEBELL
76 Hunter oak beck
77 Hawk Island, Potter park zoo, and Lansing lake.
78 hawk island, bluebeLL,beck
79 Hawk Island, Potter park zoo, andLansing lake.
80 George Town, Davis, Hawk Island
81 BLueBeLL
82 1 don't know and I don't want to visit any of them
83 lake Lansing,washington park.
84 Willoughby, marscot, kendo.
85 Hawk Island, Frances, and Grand River.
86 cavanaugh
87 Crego Park, Frances Park, Moores Park.
88 Davis Risdale Washington
89 Rotary, Riverfront, Frances DRAFT
ResponselD Response
90 Scott Woods, Shubel, and Sycamore Park
91 Scott Woods, Shubel, and Sycamore Park
92 Hawk Island, Moore's River& Francis
93 hawk island, Quentin, cavanaugh
94 Benjamin F. Davis, Maguire Park, Hawk Island
96 River Trail, Play Michigan, Foster Community Center Park
97 Armory Park (Eastern High School), Hawk Island
98 Foster Community Center/Park, Horton St/Armory Park, Crego
99 Hunter, Foster, and Potter
100 Potter Park, Marshall Park, Frances Park
101 Potter Park, Marshall Park, Frances Park
102 bancroft, potter, hunter
103 Let's Community Center,Adado Riverfront (all inclusive), and Debbie Stabinaw
(Washington Park)
104 Beck park, Hawk Island and Crego
105 Elm,Quinton,gier
106 Scott Woods, Hawk Island, Potter
107 Benjamin Davis, Francis
108 Ranney Park, Municipal Baseball Field
109 Riverfront, Elm,West Side
110 Bancroft, river trail, gier park
111 Grier Park, Potter Park,fish ladder
112 Foster, Gier community center and scymore oark
113 Gier Park
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
114 Osborn Park, Potter Park Zoo,Adado Riverfront Park
115 Gier, Fenner, Brenke
116 Geiger
117 Gier park
118 Frances, Cooley Rotary
119 Ferris, Reutter,the new all inclusive one
120 Gier Park
121 Fenner park
122 Fenner park, Hunter park, Fidelity lake
123 Bancroft park,Marshall,porter park
124 Frances Park, Moore's River Park, Hunter Park
125 Beck, Maguire, Ben Davis
126 Elmhurst,frances, Quentin
127 Crego, Hunter,fish ladder area
128 Gier,Wilson
129 Francis, Fenner, and Hawk Island
130 Hunter Park, Crego Park, Scott Woods
131 Hunter, Potter, Moores
132 Frances Park, Moores Park,Adado riverfront
133 Potter, Crego, and Mt. Hope
134 Dodge Park, Riverside Park, Grand River park
135 Foster CC, Moores, Frances
136 Sycamore Creek, Scott Woods, Fenner
137 Potter, Hawk Island,Crego DRAFT
ResponselD Response
138 Scott woods, Hunter park, crego
140 Frances, Quentin, Moores
141 Elm, Cavanaugh, Hawk Island
142 Maguire, Scott Woods, Davis
143 Turner-Dodge, Reasoner, Burchard
144 brenke fish ladder, potter park, adado riverfront
145 Frances Park, Quentin Park, Moores Park
146 Ingham Park, Francis Park, Moores Park
147 Stjoe Everett wainwright
148 Stjoe Everett wainwright
149 Adado, Fenner and Hawk Island
150 Benjamin F Davis park, Scott Woods Park, crego park
151 Frances Park,Washington Park,
152 Kaynorth, Scott's Woods, Hawk Island
153 scott woods, maguire,forest view
154 Moores park, adado riverfront park,fishladder
155 Fairview, Fenner, Moores
156 Bancroft, Fenner Nature Center, Play Mi All Inclusive Playground
157 Reutter, Hawk Island, Fenner
158 Everett Park, Poxson Park, Waldo Park
159 Elmhurst, Frances, Gier
160 Bancroft
161 Bancroft, hawk island, Moore's river
162 Hunter Park, Fenner, and Bancroft DRAFT
ResponselD Response
163 Reuters, Ferris
164 Cemeteries, Frances, Dodge
165 Hunter, Stabler, Crego
166 1. Benjamin F Davis Park 2. Forest View Park 3. Hawk Island Park
167 Rutter Park, Riverfront& Bancroft
168 Potter Park
169 Potter Park, Scott Woods, Hawk Island
170 Elmhurst, Quentin, Potter Park
171 Hawk Hallow, Rotary Park, Fenner Nature Center
172 Soldan Dog Park
173 Hunter Park, hawk island
174 Slater, Old Everett, Marshall
175 Bancroft, Fenner, Hunter
176 Francis Fenner
177 Rotary, Potter,Crego
179 Cooley Gardens, Crego, Bancroft,
180 Fenner, Fairview, Crego
181 Ferris Park, rotary park, and fish ladder.
182 Adado, Frances, Gier
183 Crego, hunters park,fenner
184 Crego, hawk Island, Potter
185 Frances, Fenner, Crego
186 Tecumseh River Park, Hawk Island/River Trail, Granger Meadows
187 Hawk Island Scott Woods and Crego Park DRAFT
ResponselD Response
188 Cherry Hill, Rotary, Riverpointe
189 River Trail, Fairview, Hunter
190 Gier park, crego park, and cavanaugh park.
191 Scott Woods, Downtown River Trail, Moores Park
192 Scott's Woods, Fenner, Mt Hope Cemetery,
193 Davis Park, Maguire Park, Frances Park
194 Hillsdale, Letts, Scotts woods
195 Foster, Fenner, Crego
196 Wainwright, Fulton, HiLLborn
197 Moores Park,Adado Riverfront, Crego
198 Walsh Park, Francis Park, and Potter Park
199 1. Moore's Park, 2. Riverside Park, 3. Quentin Park
200 Ben Davis, Fulton,AveriLL
201 Fenner Nature Center, Hawk Island, Crego Park
202 Bluebell Park, Cavanaugh, Davis
204 Bluebell, Davis, Potter
206 Fenner Nature Center, Slater park in Groesbeck, Grange Acres
207 Fenner, Hawk Island, Crego Park
208 Kircher, Potter, and Adado Riverfront
209 Moores river, rotary,
211 Scott Woods, Sycamore Creek, Evergreen
212 Potter Park
213 1.Benjamin Davis 2.Francis 3.St.Joseph
214 Hawk island, Scott woods, Crego DRAFT
ResponselD Response
215 Francis Park, Hawk Island, Simkin Drive Park
219 Woldumar, Fenner, Oaketum
220 None, I go to East Lansing, Haslett and Okemos
221 River trail, hawk Island, Moore's park
222 Frances Park Potter Park.Washington Psrk
223 Hawk, crego,the one on the big dam
224 Moore's Park, Hawk Island,Tecumseh
225 Moore's park, Hawk Island, Francis
226 Gier Park, Kendon Park, McGuire Park
227 hawk Island
228 Grand Woods, Hawk Island, Hawk Meadow
229 Hawk Island, Hawk Meadow, Grand Woods
231 Scott Woods, Fenner, Forest View
232 Hawk Island,Tecumseh Park, Frances Park
233 St.Joseph, Hunter, Ben Davis
234 Scott woods, Maguire,wilson
235 Cherry Hill, Mt Hope Cemetery, Sunken Garden
236 Riverfront, brenky fish ladder, Frances park
237 Quentin, Francis, adado river front- inclusive park
238 Hunter Park, Beacon Park, Benjamin Davis
239 Hawk, boardwalk, Moore's
240 None
242 mt hope cemetery, sycamore creek, scott's woods
243 Scott woods, Bancroft, crego DRAFT
ResponselD Response
244 Fenner, Hawk Island, Scott Woods
245 Hawk Island, Granger Meadows, Crego
246 Adado Riverfront, Hunter, Regent
247 Bancroft, Marshall
248 Fenner, Potter Park
249 Tecumseh Park, Woldumar Nature Center, Frances Park
250 Everett, moores, crego
251 Crego,Adobo
252 Frances Park, Hawk Island, Holly Park
253 Bancroft Park, Hunter, Benjamin Davis
254 Foster, Hunter, Moore's River
255 Hawk Island, Potters Park, Marshall Park
256 River trail,Adado, Crego
257 Frances Park, Moores River Park, Scott Woods
258 Bancroft. River trail. Scott woods.
259 Fennee, hawk, crego
260 Sycamore Creek Park, Cooley Gardens, Crego Park
261 Potter, Crego, Hunter
262 Quentin, Moore's, Frances
263 Bancroft park
264 Ranney skatepark, hunter park,foster park
265 Fenner Nature Center, Hawk Island, Potter Park
267 Fenner and Slater
269 Fenner, Hawk Island, Mt. Hope cemetary DRAFT
ResponselD Response
270 Quentin, Frances and Riverside
271 Moores Park, Frances Park, Soldan Dog Park
272 Frances Park, Hawk Island, Fish Ladder
273 Frances park, Patriarch park,woldumar
274 St Joe is nearest
275 Hunter park,Adado Park, Hawk Island park
276 Bancroft, Foster, and Larch
277 Walsh Park, Barb Dean, Bancroft
278 Fairview, Potter, Bancroft
279 Quentin Park, Hawk Hollow, Crego Park
280 Hunter Park, Frances Park, Crego
281 Waldo, Poxson. Washington
282 Bancroft, Scott Woods, Potter
283 Moores park hawk island
284 Regent, Hunter, Foster
285 Moore's park, Scott woods, hawk island
286 Sycamore, Clifford, Fine
287 Hawk Island, Frances, Crego
288 Moores Park
289 Hawk Island, Rotary Park, Riverfront Park
290 Hawk island, Scott woods,frances
291 Fenner, Potter, Hunter
292 Potter park, Fenner, Sharp,
293 St.Joeseph, River Trail, Lett's Community Center DRAFT
ResponselD Response
294 The new all inclusive park. Delta walking path. Delta mills park
295 Moores park, Quentin park, Elm Park. (Hawk Island would be 1 but that is a county park)
296 Scott woods, hawk island, sycamore creek
297 Moore's Park, Potter's Park, Crego Park
298 Hawk Island - Crego Park- Morris River Drive
299 Davis, Francis, Hawk Island
300 Bancroft, Hawk Island, Rotary
301 Frances, River Trail, Fenner
302 France's Park, Moore's Park,Washington Park (now dumb name of someone we don't
know)
303 Bancroft, porter, moores river
304 Bancroft Park, Scott's Woods, Hawk Island
307 Scott Woods Park, Hawk Island, Bancroft Park
308 Gier park softball fields.
309 Dunnebacke, R&D Wilson
310 Adado Park/River Trail, Francis Park, Moores Park
311 Soldan's Dog Park, Scott Woods, Fenner
312 Potter park
313 Hawk Island, Maguire, Scott woods
314 Hawk island, maguire, Scott woods
315 Bancroft, Ormond, Potter
316 Bancroft Park
317 Wainwright Park, Benjamin F. Davis, Fulton Park
318 Hawk Island
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
319 Hunter Park, Crego Park, Moores Park
320 Sycamore, Benjamin Davis, Debbie Stabinaw
321 Hawk Island, Letts and St Joseph
322 Scott Woods
323 Atwood, Potters, Hawk Island
324 St Joseph, Scott's Run, Cherryhill
325 Meijer Gardens (GR), Patriarch Park (EL), Lakeshore State Park (Milwaukee)
326 New park downtown, sharp park
327 Benjamin Davis, Francis Park, Grand Woods Park
328 Wilson,Tecumse, Lyons
329 Woldumar, Fenner, Comstock
330 Hawk Island crego Scott woods
331 Benjamin Davis, Gier, Fenner
333 ranney park
334 St.Joe Park, Hunter Park,Westside
335 Mt. Hope Cemetery, Hawk Island, Bancroft
336 Francis park, Fenner nature Center, Quinten
337 None
338 Moore's Park, Scotts Woods, and Crego
339 Lyons, Scott wood, hawk island
340 Frances, hawk Island, moores park
341 Francis, Moores, Bancroft Parks
342 Rivertrail, Frances, Fenner
343 Gier DRAFT
ResponselD Response
344 Sharp Park
345 Rudolph and Dorthy Wilson Park, Crego, Bancroft
346 Francis,Adado Riverfront, Granger Meadows
347 hunter park, bancroft park,frances park
DRAFT
2. For what reason do you use these parks? (Check all that apply)
80
60 —
c
C)
U- 40 —
Q)
0_
20 —
0
5e °c
C�° ° �ry �a oJ�G a;°
°� Qa �e5 Q`a� er
Value Percent Responses
Close to home 75.6% 251
Walking/biking/non-motorized paths 72.0% 239
Natural resources 46.1% 153
Playgrounds 30.7% 102
Other- Write In 24.4% 81
Picnic shelters 19.9% 66
Athletic fields 18.4% 61
Fishing 7.2% 24
Other - Write In Count
Totals DRAFT
Other - Write In Count
Close to work 2
Programs offered 2
Quiet 2
An awesome pump track for the kids to ride 1
BMX track and pump track 1
BMX track and the Pump Track 1
Basketball, soccer 1
Beautiful Scenery 1
Beauty.Along river trail. 1
Biking, cross-country skiing 1
Bmx track 1
Close to work 1
Concerts in the park, events (weddings, bbq for groups of which I'm a member, etc.) 1
Discgolf 1
Dog 1
Dog Park 1
Dog walks 1
Don't feel safe 1
Don't use, no where to sit 1
Events and Programs 1
Family and Community gatherings 1
Fenner for proximity to the visitor center/programs, Hawk Island for really nice paved trails that 1
are great for roller skating
Totals 79
DRAFT
Other - Write In Count
Flower gardens with labels 1
Football Practice 1
Hunter park ANC programming. 1
1 don't visit them other than an occasional walk on the River Trail by Lansing Center. 1
1 have never visited a park in Lansing 1
1 literally live in Georgetown 1
1 manage Turner-Dodge & Reasoner& Buchard are adjacent 1
1 use the kayak launches 1
It is my wife's favorite place 1
It's a quite and beautiful place. 1
It's important to have places that we can just go and sit and read, or exist. I enjoy these parks 1
because they are close to me (Elm) or because I've coached baseball but above all because they
are comforting.
Juneteenth Festival 1
Kayaking 1
Kite flying 1
Larch park needs attention so the families and kids have a safe area to play. 1
Letting my dog explore 1
Movie night 1
Music events. 1
N/A 1
Nice trail area to roller skate 1
No homeless people or drug use in the parkinglot 1
None are in Lansing 1
Tota Ls DRAFT
Other - Write In Count
Paved Walking paths 1
Places to sit/benches/chairs 1
Pokemon Go 1
Pool, gardens,trees 1
Pump track and Capital City Family BMX 1
Pump track bmx track 1
Quentin - small sledding hill 1
Quiet forest with wildlife 1
Quiet trails 1
Recreation, skate, gardens, resources 1
River Access 1
Rivertrail 1
Sports, Swimming, Flowers 1
Stoopfest, historic pool, zoo 1
Swimming 1
Swimming (pools and beach) 1
Tai chi practice 1
The beautiful forest 1
To view the native plants populations 1
UNDEVELOPED 1
Walking Tail 1
Walking path 1
Totals 79
DRAFT
Other - Write In Count
We love that the parks are a mix of playground and nature area. It is also wonderful to have all 1
needs accessibility.
Work 1
Zoo 1
commuting through parks 1
dog park 1
golf 1
Lack of crime 1
quiet, low noise levels 1
sledding hill 1
tennis courts 1
Totals 79
DRAFT
3. How many times did you visit City of Lansing parks in the last year?
/ 3%Never
3%1-2
10%3-5
15%6- 10
69%More than 10 /
Value Percent Responses
Never 2.7% 9
1 - 2 3.3% 11
3 - 5 :.9% 33
6 - 10 15.1% 50
More than 10 69.0% 229
Totals: 332
DRAFT
4. What stops you from using City of Lansing parks, or from using them
more? (Check all that apply)
50
40 —
4-1 30 —
c
U
U
U
20 —
10 —
0
Other-Write Lacks Has safety Don't have Use other Has Had a bad Hours the
In adequate issues the facilities recreational accessibility experience facilities are
restrooms that I want facilities(by concerns with them open
other
providers)
Value Percent Responses
Other- Write In 41.2% 122
Lacks adequate restrooms 38.9% 115
Has safety issues 33.1% 98
Don't have the facilities that I want 24.3% 72
Use other recreational facilities (by other providers) 23.3% 69
Has accessibility concerns 8.8% 26
Had a bad experience with them 7.8% 23
Hours the facilities are open 7.4% 22
DRAFT
Other - Write In Count
None 2
Nothing stops me 2
Time 2
Too much bugs 2
Trash, litter, people who use drugs leaving behind needles, mostly safety concerns are the 2
drawback from time to time
Working 2
Adequate parking 1
As a resident who rents, I wasn't given more information. I had to find all the parks near me or 1
found them by wandering the river trail. Providing more literature to housing complexes may
help.
As a single woman, I would not feel safe visiting a park alone. 1
Bathrooms are small not handicap accessible! Need more things for people with disabilities to do 1
at community centers besides KC angels, bowling, need to bring the Floor hockey game back to
gier! Maybe a bigger gym at foster.
Charges fee (Hawk Island) 1
Cleanliness issues 1
Cost 1
Cost to enter 1
Covered shelter 1
Crime.Wish the Moore's Park cameras still worked in the North parking lot. 1
CrimeNagrancy 1
Dirty and filled with trash, equipment broken, lacks art significancw 1
Don't find the time 1
Drug deals in the Moores park south parking area,Tons of trash left by them. 1
Totals 121
DRAFT
Other - Write In Count
Expense to drive in (Hawk Island etc) 1
Fear of spreading invasive plant species 1
Full of vagrants,drunks,gangs, and drug users 1
Have to cross dangerous roads to get to them 1
Heavily covered in litter/garbage 1
Highway construction blocking my path 1
Homeless people and gangs 1
Homeless people,drug use 1
Homeless population and trash 1
Homeless population lives in parks because they have nowhere else to go 1
1 don't always know they are there 1
1 don't have any 1
1 don't have any reasons I don't use parks 1
1 live in Okemos &enjoy the greenspaces there 1
1 use them! 1
1 walk, bike,transit everywhere by choice. Bancroft park is my favorite but sidewalks don't 1
connect the eastside where I live to the park (or at least not obviously). I would appreciate some
better/safer connections.
I would like more community events 1
If their location is not/is less accessible by bike 1
Inaccessible by walking 1
Is not nearly clean enough. 1
It is dirty and there is a lot of trash on the floor 1
Just busy 1
Totals DqAFT
Other - Write In Count
Just don't no reason 1
Just not close enough to me 1
Lack of free time 1
Lack of transport/connectiveness via trail or public transit 1
Lacks adequate connectivity to my neighborhood 1
Lacks playground equipment family enjoys 1
Lacks water fountains (for humans and dogs) 1
Lawn care services are horrible. 1
Lighting 1
Maintenance 1
Many of the things that stop me from using Lansing parks more are a direct outgrowth of LACK 1
OF ADEQUATE MAINTENANCE!
Michigan Winters 1
Most of the parks are accessible by car only.Walk in access is weak. Bike access mostly applies 1
to the Riverwalk access, which is not great. (it lacks signage for destinations and is a leisure trail.
Parks rarely have bike parking/racks, butjudicious parking.
N/A 1
N/A. I use them frequently 1
Need better courts and city organized tournaments 1
No inspiration. 1
No issues 1
No protected bike path to them. 1
No reason not to use the parks. 1
Not allowed to let my dog off leash 1
Tota is 121
DRAFT
Other - Write In Count
Not as forested/natural 1
Not attractive/visual appealing 1
Not clean or maintained 1
Not clean, not well maintained 1
Not enough play features for kids 1
Not on bus line or inaccessible by bike 1
Nothing I need to ck them out 1
Nothing, I use Lansing parks 1
Off leash dogs 1
Only able to play in summer. 1
Our kids are older so our usage changes 1
Parking 1
Parks like Kaynorth have nothing. No picnic area, no restroom, no water fountain. 1
Parks need security cameras and lighting 1
Parks on south side are hard to access by walking with my family. If we have to get in the car to 1
get there,we'll go to a bigger park with more amenities, like hawk Island or lake Lansing. Wish
we could safely walk to our local parks
People who just use the park to sit in their cars and smoke pit, or end up having fights in the 1
parking lot
Poorly maintained....grass isn't cut,trash is full, improperly equipped, parking lot surface is 1
terrible
Public transit (ir)regularity/routes 1
Snow and ice not cleared/treated promptly 1
Some of the trails that I prefer are overrun by mountain bikes or motorized vehicles (unlawfully) 1
Totals 121
DRAFT
Other - Write In Count
Stacey McNamara put a restriction on my aquatics account without just cause and without 1
informing me.The situation was resolved, but it limited our access for a few days. I think it was a
totally avoidable misunderstanding with a racial aspect and I am not convinced that Lansing
Parks and Recreation has taken all reasonable measures to prevent it from happening again.
The bike trail needs renovation. 1
The river trail needs an extreme makeover to be safe for bike riding!The tree roots create 1
dangerous obstacles for bikers.
The type of shady people at them. (Drugs, alcohol, smoking, loud,fights, etc) 1
There's always trash everywhere. 1
These parks are just lands of grass, lacks amenities 1
To clarify, safety issues are not the parks themselves but the creepy old white men who won't 1
mind their own business
Too many off leash dogs, no enforcement 1
Trash homeless encampments 1
Trash, Poor maintenance and upkeep, Downgraded facilities constantly such as playground 1
areas, etc.
Trash/garbage in parks 1
Unleashed dogs, and zero enforcement of leash laws. 1
Upkeep 1
We are a sport family. Utilized other recreational facilities that are geared toward sports. 1
We will use parks with larger playgrounds like Patriach in E Lansing at times. But mostly use 1
Lansing parks
Winter weather 1
Would like a Covered Shelter 1
don't have small children, so don't go as much 1
don't have time 1
hard to get to them by walking or biking due to car traffic 1
Totals 1DFN/-XFT
Other - Write In Count
it's difficult to get to parks without a car in foster farms neighborhood. I have to cross 127 to get 1
to the nearest river Trail access
my mom forbidden it mainly cause no one was watching me and she was afraid I'd step In dog 1
feces
none 1
nothing really 1
pool issues 1
restrooms have been privtized to baseball events 1
significant grass allergies and asthma response to smoke 1
time 1
to busy 1
too busy 1
trash 1
turpitude, indolence 1
Tota is 121
DRAFT
5. What stops you from using City of Lansing recreational programs, or
from using them more? (Check all that apply)
50
40 —
4-1 30 —
c
C)
U
i
U
0_
20 —
10 —
0
Don't know Don't have Times don't Other-Write Not that Use other Cost is too Had a bad
enough aboutthe programs work In interested in recreational high for experience
them I want recreational programs(by programs with them
activities other
providers)
Value Percent Responses
Don't know enough about them 41.4% 128
Don't have the programs I want 23.0% 71
Times don't work 21.4% 66
Other- Write In 20.4% 63
Not that interested in recreational activities 18.4% 57
Use other recreational programs (by other providers) 13.6% 42
Cost is too high for programs 12.0% 37
Had a bad experience with them 3.2% 10
DRAFT
Other - Write In Count
none 2
Accessibility and accommodations for disabilities info is not readily available 1
Again,just busy 1
As a single woman, I would not feel safe visiting a park alone. 1
Ball fields need new lighting. It was part of the master plan many years ago when my late cousin 1
Tony was working with the parks department.
Basketball isn't available in a attractive location with the proper marketing. 1
Child (4) not old enough for after school program yet 1
Distance from home is too far 1
Don't know where to find the information about the recreational programs. 1
Don't live in Lansing 1
Everything is on the north side 1
Facilities are okay, not great 1
Have a bingo night, carnival that everyone could come, maybe a rummage sale! Maybe open the 1
game room put games and crafts in the game up stairs at gier!
Have a hard time committing to the schedule 1
I bought a membership to the East Lansing Hanna Center because of the variety of Prime Time 1
creative classes offered.
I do use them! 1
1 don't get on line often so I miss things 1
1 don't really want activities, other than Moores Park pool. 1
I use several of the programs. Exercise,Tai Chi, Bingo, Puzzle,trips. 1
1 use them a lot 1
1 use them and like them, but would use them more with more options 1
Totals 61
DRAFT
Other - Write In Count
I use them! 1
I'd love to have more times hosted. Craft nights, reading clubs etc. Something free in a space 1
especially in winter.
I'm busy nowadays but will likely use them more in the future. I do go to Concerts in the Park 1
and similar events when I can though
It's challenging to plan schedule around short term inconsistent beginner/introductory 1
programming. Would prefer longer term opportunities that develop my skills/interests beyond
the intro phase to something more intermediate. It's fun to try new classes but some current
classes (boxing, etc) are repetitive if you participate more than one season
Lacks quality instruction in several sport activities. 1
Late night activities are usually unsafe for me 1
Location 1
Location, most of the senior programs are at Schmidt and I live near Foster 1
Many of the programs my family is interested in are only offered at facilities prohibitively far from 1
us.
Most youth sports are on the south side of Lansing,which is the opposite side of town for us. 1
Also would love to see budget put into retaining sport coaches on staff as I would be willing to
pay a little more for mileage or sporting cost to support having coaches as opposed to parent
coaches.
My Rec. interests are not best provided for in an urban setting.. No problems with your 1
programs.
My own physical limitations; it's nothing about the activity, per se. 1
N/A 1
N/a 1
Na 1
Need more for older kids, work with the Lansing school district to bring down the cost and offer 1
more programs.
None in city's southeast side 1
Not competitive enough and lack of teaching-Sports Specifically 1
Totals DRAFT
Other - Write In Count
Nothing 1
Nothing 1
Nothing stops us. 1
Only use Gier park. We are out of town 1
Safety 1
Since I'm an event manager&programmer, I don't havetime for other activities 1
Soggy field 1
TIME 1
The cancellation policy. I took a class I signed up for and it was too strenuous for me. I was not 1
able to cancel and receive ANY refund.
They are poorly managed and low quality 1
They conflict with school extra curricular timing. 1
Too easy. 1
Use them 1
curating my own recreational programs 1
hard to use website 1
i work them 1
not a lot that I can participate in - most either for elderly or young. 1
nothing in ward 2 1
pool closure/maintenance issues 1
to much mosquito 1
too busy to probably do it anyway 1
Totals 61
DRAFT
6. What parks and recreation facilities would you like to see expanded or
improved? (Check all that apply)
80
60 —
U_ 40 — — — —R
N
20 — — — — —
0
&
k�a QJa �yaJt aae a�J era��`e�o�c Q`oc``yea as�a a5r�e`aeQ�0
k�ep`oo�`vo o`L-,�tayt``��yGo��S Qac aJ�r ��ao
ce Q aye c aoa \y, �yo ",oa
koo�ayaoae�`\
,pa
DRAFT
Value Percent Responses
Trails 69.8% 229
Public gardens 51.2% 168
Natural areas/shade 50.3% 165
Nature centers 40.9% 134
Community centers 34.8% 114
Playgrounds 30.8% 101
Picnic areas/grills 30.5% 100
Hard surface courts (pickleball,tennis, basketball, etc.) 28.0% 92
Splash pads 23.5% 77
Athletic fields (soccer,football, baseball,etc.) 20.7% 68
Dog park 19.2% 63
Mountain biking trails 17.7% 58
Other- Write In 17.7% 58
Disc golf courses 12.2% 40
Skate parks 11.0% 36
Boat launches 11.0% 36
BMX tracks 5.5% 18
DRAFT
Other - Write In Count
A roll skate rink surface for roller derby and roller hockey and open skate 1
Accessible bathrooms 1
Accessible water access 1
Additional facilities at the bmx track would be nice. Better maintained and safer restrooms at the 1
top of the hill, better parking lot, picnic tables at the pump track and ones not falling apart.
Additional walkable entrances 1
Again,the river train would be an amazing space to ride my bike if it wasn't so 1
dangerous/damaged.And the city streets has zero road bike lanes, so this is the only option and
the state of the trail is terrible!
Benches to sit on,tables to eat at 1
Biking access with decent routing to get to them. I often see families drive to Hawk Island to ride 1
together. Not very easy for a family to bike to the parks.
Bocci ball 1
Cherry hill launch is not wheel chair accessible unless you go down backwards with assistance 1
due to grade. Ranney is in disrepair and discourages beginning skaters
Classes in art,writing and targeted to seniors 1
Community concerts, amphitheatre or band shell 1
Connective walks and area with bus stops/bike parking 1
Contained soccer fields like the one at Ferris are great, but could be better maintained 1
Dirt Bike Track 1
Dog park so people stop using Armory Park/Eastern High School as a dog park 1
Exercise gym area in Bancroft 1
Expanded biking trails rivet trail is sketchy in areas 1
Get rid of Schor 1
Golf 1
Totals 55
DRAFT
Other - Write In Count
Hiking trails that aren't paved 1
1 would NOT like to see more paved, salted, striped trails. It takes away from the experience of 1
being in nature.
Indoor pools 1
Kayak launches, roller hockey rink 1
More Gym Space 1
More garbage and recycling containers that are emptied more regularly 1
More relevant classes- look at the Prime Time newsletter that East Lansing offers in terms of 1
reasonably priced physical&creative classes offered
Native plant diversity; ground covers which function and provide environmental benefits. Less 1
turf grass.
Native plantings, riparian restoration along the Grand River 1
Natural playgrounds - like logs and rocks etc. 1
Nature Playgrounds, parkour playgrounds 1
None 1
Outdoor exercise equipment 1
Planting more native trees and plants while removing invasive plants in order to improve the 1
ecosystem in our area
Please put a community center in ward 2!! We have no place to come together. 1
Please seek to maintain rather than expand. More is not better, in this case! 1
Pools, workout equipment for adults (not the goofy machines that no one uses, but traditional 1
equipment like pull up and dip bars, crunch platforms, etc).
Programs or classes in the arts ( such as drawing, painting, crafts, pottery for adults. 1
Proper field/stadium 1
Restrooms 1
Totals 55
DRAFT
Other - Write In Count
River trail 1
Safe access,fewer fences, more entrances and ways in 1
Safer ways for cyclists and pedestrians to get to parks 1
Securing the grassy areas at Moore's Park. Many people including parkaintenance drive over the 1
grassy areas to park closer to basketball courts and pavilion.
Separate community centers activities and another specifically for adult activities. Kids programs 1
should have to fight for space over adults.
Small dog and big dog friendly agility course. 1
Soccer fields like beacon, and basketball courts with top quality backboard and floors with 1
canopys hanging over them to protect from rain
The downtown boardwalk may be improved using plastic-infused wood that lasts longer.Also 1
increased clean-up efforts -trash detracts from the experience.
Turner-Dodge would benefit from more operational resources&better grounds care both 1
Summer&Winter
Water Access for Tubing, Swimming, Kayaking. 1
Wouldn't go it will be another place for crime and for homeless to live 1
city ran indoor ice rink 1
none 1
rest rooms 1
ward 2 needs a community center. old mclaren building?Lansing makers network?also 1
CONNECTIVITY between parks would be nice
Totals 55
DRAFT
7. If someone in your family has a disability, either visible or invisible, what
changes could make parks or trails in Lansing easier and more enjoyable
from them to use? (Check all that apply)
40
30 —
N �
i 20
N
0_
10 —
0
A e1,
�`e a�ca a�z �yo c5 `a ,\ei 'cet
P`61
00 p,`\e
Q�.
Value Percent Responses
Not applicable 39.1% 125
Accessible restrooms 35.6% 114
Paved/hard surface trails 34.1% 109
Sensory gardens 25.0% 80
Flatter, easier grades 21.9% 70
Accessible parking spaces 21.6% 69
Accessible playgrounds 19.7% 63
Other- Write In 10.0% 32
DRAFT
Other - Write In Count
None 3
The mow vendor's gas riding mowers are incredibly loud for people with sensory challenges. 2
Has there been thought about using electric mowers instead?
Accessible water access 1
Additional walkable entrances 1
All these things can be individually found at different area parks, but rarely are more than one or 1
two found together.
Amenities not so far from parking lot 1
Better online maps with notes on accessibility:to know before we go 1
Better website information (virtual tours or more photos -AbleVu would be a great resource) 1
Flooding 1
Get rid of Schor 1
Have more events for us to do at the community center with out costing a bunch of money art 1
contest, and crafts maybe Easter egg hunt have a Christmas dance for people with disabilities
I don't know if quiet areas for calming down are an option for sensory overwhelm 1
1 don't think all trails have to be accessible 1
It would be nice to have a handicap pad and access to water fearures at the Hawk entry of the 1
dog park
Maintain them so they are not so much a safety hazard. 1
More and comfortable places to sit down. E.g., ergonomically contoured for sitting, easy to rise 1
from, and arm rests.
Mowing the grass with the deck down. 1
Open restrooms and functional water fountains 1
Restrooms available more,they are often locked. 1
Seating or pavilion closer to parking lot 1
Totals 29
DRAFT
Other - Write In Count
Studies clearly show what makes parks more accessible 1
Turner-Dodge needs to create a professional grade video tour of the 2nd &3rd floors for those 1
who cannot use the stairs.
Welcome the sunflower: https:HhdsunfLower.com/us/ 1
it is very hard to get wheelchairs to athletic fields 1
Love the idea of sensory gardens 1
pot holes, cracked pavement. Repair uneven surfaces. 1
Totals 29
DRAFT
8. What types of trails/non-motorized paths do you usually use?
4%Other-Write In \
4%Regional water trails(ex.Red I
Cedar and Grand River Water ^
Trails) /
7%I don't use trail systems
56%Regional hard surface trails
30%Trails within parks
(ex.Lansing River Trail)
Value Percent Responses
Regional hard surface trails (ex. Lansing River Trail) 55.8% 184
Trails within parks 29.7% 98
1 don't use trail systems 7.0% 23
M
Regional water trails (ex. Red Cedar and Grand River 3.9% 13
Water Trails) •
Other- Write In 3.6% 12
•
Totals: 330
DRAFT
Other - Write In Count
All of the above, in Lansing mainly the River Trail and Fenner 1
All of the first three choices 1
All of these 1
Both Lansing River Trail as well as non-paved hiking trails within parks (Like Fulton Park, Fenner 1
Nature Center, and Crego Park trails)
Don't feel safe on bike trails solo 1
1 don't use thectails 1
1 use all the trails! 1
1 use both paved trails and trails within parks equally. 1
It won't let me choose multiple but we use both regional trails 1
McNamara mountain bike trails, Eastgate. 1
Trails within and outside of parks. 1
Totals 11
DRAFT
9. How many times did you use trails in the past year?
16%A few times a year / 12%Daily
7%Quarterly -_
\ 39%Weekly
26%Monthly /
Value Percent Responses
Daily 12.2% 37
Weekly 38.8% 118
Monthly 26.3% 80
Quarterly 7.2% 22
A few times a year 15.5% 47
Totals: 304
DRAFT
10. What Lansing parks and recreation programs do you or your family
take part in? (Check all that apply)
50
40 —
30 —
U
V
i
V
a- 20 —
10 —
0
c°°k e e0 y °may a J��ec cayy a a``oycc c`°�y a`�e a a�Ga a eJ``` toa�r
�o a°o SQe�ao OQra�a`c fi�Gep� eoF`\J°o'•�o�°°\5��ot`5O'a Cte ya�moo°'
e, 4' a Qa�<` \aoJ a
'0 yoy°a egeoo �o-`o
°se Ile,
� a
pa,°_\e,`Va•`��
DRAFT
Value Percent Responses
None of the above 41.9% 137
Special events 27.8% 91
Sports (youth and adult; baseball, softball, basketball, 22.0% 72
soccer,tennis, archery,volleyball)
Community Center open activities (ex.open gym, game 19.9% 65
room, basketball,volleyball, pickleball, swim)
Fitness (yoga,walking programs, aerobics, boxing, 16.5% 54
conditioning)
Aquatics (swim lessons and lifeguard classes) 12.2% 40
Seniors 9.5% 31
Creative arts and painting 6.7% 22
Dance (youth and adult) 6.1% 20
Therapeutic recreation (inclusive recreation for people 5.2% 17
with disabilities) a
Martial arts (youth and adult) 4.0% 13
•
DRAFT
11. The money from the City Park Millage is used for improvements,
supporting grant funding, and maintaining recreation areas. How would
you spend this money?
17%Recreational programs(such \
as swim lessons,etc.)
� 54%Park improvements(i.e.
/ construction projects)
30%Park maintenance(such as
mowing,etc.)
Value Percent Responses
Park improvements (i.e. construction projects) 53.6% 173
Park maintenance (such as mowing, etc.) 29.7% 96
Recreational programs (such as swim lessons, etc.) 16.7% 54
Totals: 323
DRAFT
12. What is the best way to let you know about activities and services
from the City of Lansing Parks and Recreation Department? (Check all that
apply)
80
60 —
+�
C)
U- 40 —
N
20 —
0
o'- e�
�5ac�o�
Q�aoc AJ O cep � �
DRAFT
Value Percent Responses
Social media 64.2% 212
Website 53.0% 175
Parks and Recreation guide 52.1% 172
E-mail 45.8% 151
Direct mail 29.1% 96
E-newsletter 26.7% 88
Signage 24.8% 82
Flyers 19.1% 63
Word of mouth 18.5% 61
Newspaper 7.0% 23
Cable TV 6.7% 22
Other - Write In 6.4% 21
DRAFT
Other - Write In Count
City Pulse 2
Radio 2
All of the ways listed. 1
Any of the above are fine. I like getting the booklet in the mail that is quarterly 1
City Pulse and other calendars 1
Flyers in businesses and community boards would also be helpful 1
1 read the local news online at WLNS and Lansing State Journal 1
Improve the website - it's terrible. 1
Lansing guide 1
Local TV involvement 1
Local morning news! 1
Local news segments 1
More details about the programs - where they're at, how long,what type environment,where to 1
park.Working with Able Eyes would go a long way to making me feel more comfortable at city
facilities.
Neighborhood meetings (like CDCA) 1
Please start texting when registration opens 1
Radio 1
Text updates w link to the website 1
text 1
Totals 20
DRAFT
13. What are the ages of the people in your household who use parks and
recreation facilities in the City of Lansing? Please select the number of
people within your household that are in each age group.
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Responses
Under
13 33 56 30 8 10 1 0 1 0 0 0 139
Count 23.7% 40.3% 21.6% 5.8% 7.2% 0.7% 0.0% 0.7% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
Row
13 -
18 33 36 13 4 3 1 0 1 0 0 1 92
Count 35.9% 39.1% 14.1% 4.3% 3.3% 1.1% 0.0% 1.1% 0.0% 0.0% 1.1%
Row
19 -
29 30 42 23 3 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 101
Count 29.7% 41.6% 22.8% 3.0% 1.0% 1.0% 0.0% 0.0% 1.0% 0.0% 0.0%
Row
30 -
39 16 68 60 4 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 151
Count 10.6% 45.0% 39.7% 2.6% 1.3% 0.7% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
Row
40 -
49 32 52 38 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 126
Count 25.4% 41.3% 30.2% 1.6% 0.0% 0.8% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.8%
Row
50 -
59 32 30 22 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 86
Count 37.2% 34.9% 25.6% 0.0% 0.0% 1.2% 0.0% 1.2% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
Row
60 -
69 28 35 17 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 83
Count 33.7% 42.2% 20.5% 0.0% 1.2% 0.0% 1.2% 0.0% 1.2% 0.0% 0.0%
Row
DRAFT
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Responses
70 -
79 32 29 10 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 72
Count 44.4% 40.3% 13.9% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 1.4% 0.0%
Row
80
and 34 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 42
older 1.0% 14.3% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 4.8%
Count
Row
Totals 892
100.0%
DRAFT
14. What do you like most about parks and recreation in the City of
Lansing?
• kids programs playgrounds
City lansing
green ' areas
eniovt r a i e
close
natura, parks
tur variety
riverbike
activities access
ResponselD Response
2 There's a park in every neighborhood and they're in ok shape
3 1 like that there are multiple options, and the grass is usually cut well.
4 The river Trail connects many of the parks. I just wish it felt safer to get to them from my
home. When I lived by Ferris Park, I didn't used that park very often, but i didn't have to
cross unsafe roads to get to the river trail.
5 The beauty of the natural environment.The trails,the proximity,the connectivity. But
again,the River Trail,from Moore's park to Old Town to Hawk Island needs a make-over!
It would also be amazing if bike lanes to our roads were added to the cities priorities...
6 We love having neighborhood parks to go to.
7 All of the river trails. Love the new playground downtown.
9 It's affordable and open to everyone.
10 1. River trail! 2. Playgrounds 3.After-school programs @ Foster 3. Natural areas (eg big
trees and hills at Bancroft), everything peaceful with big trees and nature)
11 Trails
13 The River Trail. Also love kayaking access to the river.
14 Outdoor options like green/natural spaces,the river trail and playgrounds
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
16 There are lots of options for parks!The river trail is an excellent resource and is
maintained well
17 Close to where I live.
18 Substantial recreation space available throughout the City. Fantastic trail system that is
accessible in many areas with helpful signage to stay aware of your location. Great for
running and training!
19 The opportunity to get into nature and and breathe easy
20 1 love the Lansing River Trail! I walk on it (mostly) daily. Safety is a huge concern for me. I
appreciate seeing the volunteers in the electric carts.
21 That there are many parks
22 Pools, workout equipment for adults,the Turner-Dodge House,trails, and nature centers.
I think pools,workout equipment, and the Turner-Dodge House should be much higher
priories in terms of investment. I especially want to see more investment in hours and
programs for the Hunter Park Pool, including swimming lessons and support for youth in
the neighborhood to become lifeguards (instead of just recruiting mostly white kids from
affluent schools with swim teams).
23 Easy access from neighborhood. Fun to explore, new adventures, love to walk or ride bike
on trails
24 Rivertrail and expansions to other communities.
25 Old growth trees,gardens, rivers, modern amenities
28 Lots of parks to choose from!
29 How close they are to natural assets - rivers, lakes,woods.
31 Easy accessibility, senior programs are great
32 1 love seeing a young kids out there in the park playing with their parents.And I love
going walking on the trails throughout the city.
33 1 really like the amount of green spaces there are, and the variety of activities that are
offered
34 Ease of access
35 The many options and varieties!
36 1 love walking my dog at various locations along the river trail. Lots of shade, and
pleasing to the eye. DRAFT
ResponselD Response
37 Senior programs
38 The people at my local rec center are really friendly.
39 1 loved Cooley Gardens &river trL esp during covid &when i lived close to both. As a sr I
Love schmidt for exercise socializing &education. It has transformed my retirement to
healthy&fulfilling.
40 The community actually wants to go outside in the digital era. It's nice to be around
people and enjoy nature.
42 Being outside
45 offering after school program and camps for youth
47 1 appreciate the variety of parks, community centers and programs that the city of Lansing
offers
48 Variety
49 Somewhere for the kids to burn off energy. Need to have Less smoking of weed on the
grounds.
50 1 Like that the recreation programs are affordable and pretty good. I Like that the trail
system has been expended though taking it even further through the city would be great.
51 The trails winding through the woods.
52 Natural area and a nice place to walk the dogs.
53 Low-cost recreation.Trails.
54 Love the youth activities -from after care, summer camp,to athletics. Love the river trail
and seeing it grow and improve! Love the natural areas within parks, like Bancroft. Love
the playgrounds!
55 classes, clean parks and trails, and access to doggie bags and trash receptacles.
56 The river trail is a great resource, but lacks enforcement to make it safe for everyone.
Better to improve what we have before trying to build out or create even more programs.
57 We Love how close we are to multiple parks. Love that usually the parks are well Lit,
accessible by walking or biking and have playground areas/open spaces/and courts
58 Nature areas
59 The River Trail is a true treasure that we use frequently in the warm months. Having
parks in most neighborhoods is nice. DRAFT
ResponselD Response
60 Updated playground equipment,wide open spaces, and the extensive trail network
61 Love having green space, but would like better maintenance.The hired mowers do a
terrible job.
62 It's close to home
63 Being able to enjoy nature not that far or in the city
64 There are a lot of options.
65 The continued growth and connection of the trail systems
66 The many parks Lansing offers.There's always one close by. Playgrounds and other
ways to keep kids busy.Walking paths
67 Lots of trails and parks
68 1 really enjoy being able to get to my destinations by going through parks. I also really
enjoy relaxing in parks.
69 seeing my friends
70 1 Like that the parks are stable and are very playable.
71 1 Like these parks because they are a fun bonding time to do with your family and a way to
spend time with your family.
72 i Like how there are many and you dont have to walk far for any of them
73 1 Like that its a park
74 1 don't know.
75 Swing sets
76 they are fun and some are clean
78 that theres trails
79 Cheap
80 IDK
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
81 Because you can do a lot of stuff there
82 I'm not sure
83 being able to breath
84 Flower, Fountain.
85 The things they offer.
86 The good swings
87 Nature trails and beautification of land.
88 lot of people use them I meet friends there they are clean
89 Variety, low cost,friendly staff
90 1 LOVE how many parks we have within ten minutes from wherever you are in the city of
Lansing. I love how affordable the recreation classes are for families. I LOVE the Lansing
River trail and the trails leading to it from our many parks. I love how much nature we
have in an urban setting like wild turkeys, deer, and so on.
91 1 LOVE how many parks we have within ten minutes from wherever you are in the city of
Lansing. I love how affordable the recreation classes are for families. I LOVE the Lansing
River trail and the trails leading to it from our many parks. I love how much nature we
have in an urban setting like wild turkeys, deer, and so on.
92 The staff is always friendly. I love that there are multiple community centers.
93 1 think there's a good quality of programs. Once you know to go out to the website and
register.There are so many different things you can find and do. Being able to participate
in open events and special events is also really nice. I don't feel pressure to commit to a
schedule for these and the low cost of entry is never a deterrent.
94 The River Trail, I run and bike on it almost every day. I also really enjoy the pull-up bar at
Benjamin Davis Park and the outdoor athletic center at Maguire Park. It's important to me
because I get a lot of my fresh air, sunshine and exercise through the park and trail
system.
96 Many are accessible by the river trail
97 Thank you Parks and Rec!
98 1 like that I am never very far from a park-that there are so many parks. I love the river
trail system - nice to be able to bike places along the path with my family.
100 Having nature available within the city is important to the quality of life. DRAFT
ResponselD Response
101 Having nature available within the city is important to the quality of life.
103 1 adore the availability of parks and green space.There are beautiful parks with
playgrounds all over the city,tucked into neighborhoods everywhere.The trails are a
wonderful place to explore while walking or biking. I especially love that I can find so
many spots to slip a canoe or kayak into the river right in the middle of town!
104 1 like the fact that there are lots of parks located throughout the city and are easy to find.
105 Most"recreational" programs are provided at a relatively low cost.
109 The staff is phenomenal. I think it's incredible we have multiple community centers.
110 Great city
111 We primarily take part in BMX and bike riding at both Grier Park and throughout the
community.What we appreciate the most is that both BMX and bike riding is something
that anyone of almost any skill can do.The BMX track and pump track, anyone of any
ability skill or age level is more than welcome and treated like family.We've been able
to assist kids in the local community with getting a bike to ride and supporting them in a
positive athletic outlet. We also enjoy Potter Park and the zoo. We spend lots of days
picnicking along the river, but struggle to find areas without geese poo to sit.
112 It's convenient, Fun I bowl on Tuesdays and it's been so much fun bowling bring out in
community and having lots friends and meeting new ones too
113 The new pump track and BMX track brings people to the community from all over the
state
114 How accessible many of them are from our home by walking or biking.
115 The park's director is great, we love the BMX Track and pump track inside of Gier. We
need more lights and bathroom facilities in the front of the park.
116 Everything to do with capital city BMX great people doing a greatjob I would love to see
them grow
117 Bmx track and pump track
118 Many to choose from.
119 How many neighborhood parks there are
120 The bmx track and bike park
122 Swimming
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
123 The people who run it. It's a fun and entertaining, exciting, sports, community centers,
kids programs, seniors programs,just a fun place to be.,
124 That we have so many of them and that they are all different.
126 1 like the playgrounds for kids, kids programs, and open volleyball at foster
127 Being able to access trails in the neighborhoods around me for walking and running
130 The river trail is a huge asset- maintaining the trails and preserving the natural areas is
imperative.
131 The river trail is so cool,the zoo is great, and the community events are fun
132 We love the miles of walking paths,especially the River Trail which can connect you to
all parts of the city.We enjoy the concerts in the parks and seeing our grandchildren and
neighborhood children enjoy the playgrounds. We also enjoy visiting the public garden
spaces and appreciate the improvements at the Frances Park Rose Garden.
133 Programs and activities that cater to everyone.
134 1 really enjoy walking the Riverfront Trail.
135 A park is with in 5 minutes of any place in the city.
136 River Trail
137 As a long distance runner, I love the River Trail system! It's very close to our apartment,
and it's in our requirements to buy a home that it's near walking/biking trails.
140 Aquatics,trails and bike paths.And the people who staff the parks and community
centers are great. The aquatics program has really improved by taking it back in-house!
141 They offer a variety of activities.
142 Welcoming Staff,All the great special events offered.
143 Parks staff work very hard and put on great programming, although they often lack the
resources they need -- especially staff hours for program planning &facilitation &
dedicated full-time marketing staff.
144 That there are many different park options in and around Lansing :)
145 1 can go shoot hoops, play catch at a ballfield, play tennis,walk the dogs all within about
a mile from home.
146 Locations
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
147 Nothing
148 Nothing
149 My daughter requests to go to Adado all the time, she loves the playground and we love
that we can meet our friends who are disabled there and it's fun for everyone. Our whole
family loves the river trail, and the trails at Hawk Island and Fenner.We love to visit the
Chestnut trees at Fenner.We know they're fighting blight but they are a treasure
nonetheless, please do not cut them down if making improvements to Fenner.
150 River trail
151 The trails system
152 1 like that different parks have walking paths and lots of trees.
153 we like to walk around hawk island and scott woods, we like to bike.we like the archery
courses and some other classes (but they are very far from us).we use hawk island and
the ymca for swimming.
154 How it makes me feel connected to the city
155 For the ones I frequent I find the nature to be quite nice, especially Fairview Park.
156 Variety and options
157 Using the River Trail to get to various places around the city safely, rather than risking
busy roads with little to no biking infrastructure or safety from cars.
158 The convenience.
161 1 like the river trail and the canoe launches.
162 1 love the paved pathways in our parks.The Lansing river trail is a gem in this community.
163 How close it is to home.
164 1 like how many parks there are and, on the whole, I like that the prices of anything that
costs money is pretty low.
165 Community feels connected and passionate about local environment
166 Quiet. Clean. Safe. Peaceful.
167 So many great parks and green spaces within the city.
169 Excellent,well-maintained facilities.
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
170 1 love the summer camp offerings,the Todd Martin tennis opportunities and swim
Lessons.The community centers are a wonderful resource and we plan on having our
son's birthday party at Lett's and taking advantage of the e-games room. We also had
his 3rd birthday at Letts.
171 LAP Inc has done a greatjob at creating a common identity/sense of place for all the
parks they have designed. Clear views, common plant types, accessible,with modern
amenities
173 Abundance of options. River trail
174 Lots of nice green space and convenient locations
175 1 love Bancroft
176 Variety of parks like the river trail but it has more sketchy areas to ride thru.
177 The river trail
179 Having green spaces to escape car infestation/infrastructure
180 There are so many options to choose from, whether we're looking to dive into nature
hikes, paddle waterways or hit our neighborhood playgrounds.
181 1 would like for each side of town and also one in downtown to be an Ultra Modern
Community Center with saunas and steam rooms and basketball courts and gymnasium
for working out with a small track and a sitting area we can grab snacks and that was
really people can conversate
182 Accessibility to all.
183 Trails and fishing
184 LRT and E-Bike access.
185 The amount of parks
186 We love Lansing Parks! We are always out at one park or another. We have young kids
who enjoy the playgrounds, and we also like to hike and bike trails (including the river
trail).
187 The ability to travel the city and have walkable natural areas
188 Lansing has nice spots of parks in just about every neighborhood. Lansing also
recreational programs.Though knows very little about them or no reminders of such.
189 Proximity.
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
190 The number of parks
191 Lansing has a great trail system. I love Scott Woods where I can connect with the trees
and waterways plus get some exercise.The trails need some love regarding
maintenance to the boardwalk downtown and regular trash pick-up.There are certain
areas that cause concern for safety.Although, I am sympathetic to those experiencing
mental health and housing issues.
192 How many parks there are,that they are scattered throughout the city and that there are
several larger parks with undeveloped/natural areas.
194 Open space,woods,trails
195 variety of programs
196 The abundance and variety of the parks and activities, and how well run the department
is.
197 Connectivity between parks, commercial areas (REO, downtown, Old Town, East side),
access to river and ponds. Often travel via bike on River trail and enjoy parkland for
breaks
198 1 would like to see actual after school recreation programs brought for our youth to
participate in.Also more activities for senior citizens that wouldn't require a lot of
mobility to participate.
199 1 love that I live within walking distance of several green spaces. Having a variety of
natural and human-created features (Moore's Park is more wooded, Quentin has the
baseball diamond, Riverside is on the banks of the Grand River).And of course the River
Trail! Plus,your community engagement processes (like this survey) are great! I felt
connected to park decision making and park staff.
200 Having space to walk and take in nature
201 good trails, close to water and natural areas,trees &plants
204 trees,freshness,getting outside,dogs must be leashed
206 1 like Fenners trails and I did take classes in the past like basket making and wreaths
made from found materials in the park. I went to yoga in the past but stopped going due
to the time offered. I live on the east side and not many activities at the Foster Center
which I am closest to.
207 The river trail and being able to get around the city safely by bikes. Lansing just needs to
expand the river trail.
208 1 have often used the river trail to get from East Lansing to the Capitol and back, and
always consider it a great time. DRAFT
ResponselD Response
211 1 really enjoy the River trail and use it daily for recreation as well as commuting. I
appreciate the opportunity to be immersed in nature and also enjoy getting out on the
water. I don't know about the cities organized recreational opportunities but would enjoy
adult sport or disc golf leagues.
212 The programs for seniors
214 1 like that we have access to natural areas and trails and the river within the city and are
able to be removed from vehicle traffic.
220 1 don't like the Lansing parks, I don't feel safe due to lack of security. I used the golf
courses until most of them closed, and Grosbeck's fees are the same as much better
courses outside of Lansing.
221 Lansing River trail is the core. Good new pickleball courts.trail maintenance continues to
improve
222 Community Centers & Senior Program's
223 How far we can go on the trail system
224 The ability to be so close to nature.
225 The river trail and connection between everything. Francis is one of the prettiest spots in
Lansing and hawk Island has amazing amenities. River trail is jewel of Lansing though.
226 Senior activities at Schmidt Community Center and adult recreational softball at Gier
park.
227 connectivity of trails
228 1 love the shaded trees and natural landscapes of our parks
229 1 like walking around trails and enjoying nature while still being in the city.
231 River Trail
232 Their abundance, cleanliness, and proximity to nature and natural spaces
233 1 like that there are so many. Big ones, small one, ones that are just bigger than a pocket.
When you're in Lansing,you're never far from a park.
234 Parks are great, awesome way to get outside and destress. I appreciate the natural
beauty and the ability to meet neighbors in a shared safe place. We have picnics and
walks in parks
235 Variety, proximity to population, respect of natural and historic material
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
236 Usually clean and green in a bustling city, nice place to relax and just breathe the fresh
air.
237 We like how many there are and how close they are to the house.We like the inclusive
playground.We really liked the weekly park activity in Quentin park last summer for
kids.
240 Nothing Lansing sucks, nothing too do,when there is an event it's the same old boring
thing.
242 Excellent wildlife viewing/birdwatching
243 Plenty of walkability!Well kept! Would love to see more areas for swimming locally!
244 River Trail systems and all the natural water features. (Rivers lakes ponds streams)
245 Potential
248 Safety is a top concern, I enjoy Fenner as there are laces to walk, places to picnic and
places to just sit and enjoy nature.
249 The nature
250 That there are many
251 That they are plentiful and well maintained.
252 Enjoying natural scenery and playgrounds and activities for children
253 The number of parks in our neighborhoods. We also need to feel safe and security
cameras and lighting is needed.
254 1 like how many are connected by bike trails.
256 Lots of nature,variety, and I love the new accessible playground at Adado. My child does
not have special needs, but the accessible design just makes it a better experience for
everyone. Felt safer and easier for parents to interact.
257 Access to natural resources,gardens,trail connectivity
258 The variety and sheer number of parks.
260 Walking paths through trees that allow for bird watching
262 The open spaces, connection to rivers,
263 I like the activities my kids can do
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
264 There's a skate park
265 1 love the Lansing parks! I appreciate the flat, paved trails for roller skating, it's much nicer
than bumpy sidewalks
267 1 only go to 2, Fenner and Slater (because it's in my neighborhood).A number of them
feel unsafe and some are too far from my home
269 Hidden, quiet, peaceful
270 Our city has a lot of parks.And I love our community centers. Foster has a lot of great
programming and feels like it's utilized really well.
271 Natural features. Historic structures like the Moores Park pool, gardens, gazebos, picnic
areas, overlooks, and concerts in the summer
272 The city trails that have access to the grand river or if there are trails for running/biking
273 Several great locations
274 Their potential
275 For the little amount of funding put in (via milage) I will say that the city seems to do a
pretty good job of getting the bang for the buck as it were. But more funding would be
great.
276 The variety of parks, each park has something for everyone.
277 The history of the parks and the vast greenspace
278 Nature.
279 How broad and numerous they are.You can always find exactly what you are looking for
in a park.
280 How I can access parks in every area of Lansing; I'm never far from a park
282 Most have a unique draw.The diversity.
283 Trees
284 How many parks there are
285 There's lots of great hiking trails.
286 Easily available,there are so many parks that if one has an event and I don't feel like
participating it's so fast and easy to find so many parks with similar traits
DRAF6T
ResponselD Response
287 1 love the natural areas and trails that offer a slice of peace and quiet in an otherwise
Loud and bright city.
288 green space, river trail
290 Playgrounds and pavillions
292 There are a lot of parks in the city and most of them are pretty well maintained. I love all
of the walking trails, and green spaces. Lately we've been really into pickle ball so ay
place that has courts is a plus. It be really fun to see some volley ball nets and more disc
golf courses too!
293 Running paths (not-paved) and tennis courts.
295 The proximity and the value they add to our neighborhoods and community. Our kids
Love the playgrounds and my wife and I love walking in the trail system.
296 The high number of them scattered throughout the city.
297 How many options there are throughout the city for parks. It feels like no matter where
you are,there it a park that's not too far away.
298 natural setting
299 Affordable Programs
300 Bancroft Park feels like living next to a deep forest. It's great to be able to escape the
city. Loop 2 at Bancroft is so beautiful. Hawk Island is a great destination for biking. My
wife and I love riding down there from our home near Bancroft.
302 What i DONT like is the lack of maintenance. I am not sure who you hire or if it's the
management telling them what to do are acceptable. I clean up more trash than anyone
else in my neighborhood's park.We even created a neighborhood group to take weekly
spots to clean one of your largest parks, Moores river.That is unnecessary when we pay
taxes.The reason we don't go there often anymore,with a 5 and 3 year old, is because of
the lack of yard maintenance, new play set is not kid friendly, and the bathroom is never
open. Moore's park has never properly been cleared of leaves and sticks. My kids and
myself have been stabbed and sticked several times walking to the playground. I am not
talking about the soccer zone area...that always looks beautiful. But the part under the
amazing large trees where you placed a very under thought new play equipment.That
new set, it is unbelievable. Also you couldn't have replaced the mulch or the rubber
under the swings?That's a hazard too.The kid play area is junk. We often skip the new
play area there and walk to the old one by the pool. My kids enjoy that one more. So
after that rant,we prefer Frances park because for some reason it seems to be more
maintained. However I still pick trash up there too.Though it is the best park we have
and that's why it is my go to. So treat moore's park the same!Washington park we like
but the play set is to geared for older children. I like the work out station. However,
again, it's full of trash...And why can't you bring back the ice rink there? ItDa om .RAF6T
ResponselD Response
303 1 love the wildlife diversity found in Lansing. Spring ephemerals, nut trees, birds and
bugs!There are so many sites that the habitat is diverse enough to host a lot of species
304 1 like the opportunity to walk in places where you can see nature. Green space and
access to waterways is extremely important for personal and community health.
307 Trails
310 The variety of programs and activities and all the beautiful parks!
311 1 keep learning more about parks nearby. It has been fantastic.
313 Well maintained, paved trails
314 The river trail, and ESPECIALLY Hawk Island are our favorite parts of living in Lansing. I
am able to ride my bike to work every day,we are able to walk our dog on well
maintained and beautiful trails and paths. I adore the parks and trails of the city of
Lansing.
315 They are plentiful and decently maintained.They offer beautiful nature within the city.
316 Bancroft Park-the trails,forest, and wildlife.
317 1 have not been to the majority of the City of Lansing parks, but my wife and I love the
hiking trails in places like Fulton Park, Hunter's Ridge, Fenner Nature Center, and Crego
Park. I love that there's so much mostly undisturbed natural area to explore. We have a
toddler and a baby, so we really love and appreciate the paved pathways as well as
playgrounds at Benjamin F. Davis,the Inclusive playground at Adado, and the Lansing
River Trail. Wainwright Park is right in our neighborhood, so it's perfect for hosting
neighborhood events.
319 The sheer number of spaces is one of the best things about the Lansing Area.A friend
moved here recently from Arizona and can't believe how many parks there are.
320 We love how many parks there are and how diverse the offerings are at each of them. No
matter what were in the mood for there's likely a park that can provide it. I would love a
more organized directory of what all our parks offer in the city.
321 1 like the vierity of parks we have and I love the river trail.
322 Love the river trail,very much enjoy co-ed softball.
323 River trail is close to work so lots of afternoon walks
324 Programs for kids.
325 Not one single thing.
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
327 Variety of options
328 The parks are maintained adequately and feel safe most of the time
329 Plenty of parks across the city
330 Proximity to the river trail
331 Availability
334 The variety of parks,trails and programs to meet the interests of all people in Lansing.
335 1 love that there are so many parks that I can access easily for a walk with my dog,
whether I've got 30 minutes or a few hours.
336 The availability throughout the city.
337 Not much! Not enough beginning Art classes
338 The abundance of them! I love taking walks in the area and stumbling on all the little
gems all over.
339 The updates to the parks
340 Way to get exercise
341 Love all the parks and green spaces. Love the walking and riding trails especially the
River Trail system. We also love the Concerts in the Park in the summer. Used to play
softball, not sure if there are senior leagues ... and other leagues like pickleball.
343 Good number of parks
345 Very close and frequent throughout the city. A lot of variety.A place where you can
really have a good time.All walks of life. Decent balance of people from all walks of life.
346 Well maintained and manicured landscaping,trails to walk, beautiful nature views,
places to meditate.
347 The trees and the trails. We have several large parks that provide an "escape." I also love
that Lansing has a park for every type of vibe. If i want to be near activities, I have parks
downtown. If I want quiet, I have parks like Fenner or Bancroft. Lansing has so many
awesome parks and the department should be proud of what it does with the resources it
has. Parks are one of the reasons we are proud to call Lansing home.
DRAFT
15. What is one thing you would do to improve parks and recreation
within the City of Lansing?
maintained
community lansing
rec river city trail add
or vg
safe
safety ar blean
ike
other trash
areas
public activities
ResponselD Response
2 Have trash receptacles available year round. I use the trails all year and it's really gross.
I'm a responsible dog owner and there's no place to dispose of poop bags.
3 1 really would like soccer fields that are well kept. Soccer fields typically need a lower cut
than the grass is cut.Also putting out some goals for all of the community to use would
be nice when I host pick up soccer in summer
4 Buy up some long abandoned property along E Michigan so it can be a park instead of an
eyesore.
5 The River Trail,from Moores Park to Old Town to Hawk Island needs a make-over! It
would also be amazing if bike lanes to our roads were added to the cities priorities...
6 Upkeep on keeping the parks mowed, clean and safe.
7 00cr
9 We need to find better ways to protect our homeless neighbors during cold weather.
Letts Community Center is NOT a good place to have a warming center.The facility is
inadequate for what the homeless folks need and having the warming center there
interferes with programming.We need to do better.
10 River trail needs to have less closures so that I can get where I need to be. Parks
department needs to STOP selling park land to developers!!!
11 Safety. Sometimes I don't feel safe at certain parks if I go alone.
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
13 Keep up with trail maintenance.Add more kayak launch points.
14 Focus on what works and what the public uses the most. Maintain and make those
spaces as welcoming as possible. Cut the waste on things that drain funds.
15 Better water quality protection, evaluation, and treatment with surface water bodies.The
high phosphorus content caused by nearby storm drain discharge into the Soldan Dog
Park pond causes significant and extensive algal blooms.These blooms negatively
impact our dogs health. It's critical to keep in mind that humans have to go into that
water--sometimes dogs need to be separated, a toy needs to be retrieved, a young pup is
struggling to swim.To keep our dogs safe we must go in that water. Failure to address
the harmful algal bloom situation with structural controls (not heavy metals in the water
our dogs ingest and wear) is a failure to keep Lansing residents safe.
16 More adult fitness/rec sports programming
17 Secure grassy areas at Moore's Park so people do not drive over the grassy to the
basketball courts and pavilion.Two tracks have been created by these individuals and
the maintenances workers cleaning the restrooms and picking up trash. Please stop this
behavior.
18 Maintenance of the river trail could be improved in the winter, plowing to maintain use
throughout the seasons can help people stay active throughout the year.
19 Provide more opportunities for Seniors
20 Keep improving the Lansing River Trail! Such an asset for our community. Safety is a big
concern for me.
21 Move the youth football team to a different park other than them practicing on the
outfield of the softball area at Washington park.
22 Swim lessons and other programs at the Hunter Park pool. I'm certain you could get the
Allen Neighborhood Center to partner on that.
23 Better lighting under bridges for safety at night
24 Trail improvements. Education on appropriate use of parks, notjust people sitting in their
cars in the parking lot(they can do that at Walmart).
25 More community events and volunteer opportunities.
28 Upkeep of parks and rec centers
29 More playscapes, cleanliness, public art
31 ???
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
33 More time slots for the activities and for parks to be made a little safer
36 Restroo.s would be nice.
37 Larger areas for Senior programs.
38 Hold more seniors activities on weekends or evenings. Not all of us are retired.
39 Make them more accessible to people with mobility issues.
40 Maintenance upkeep....mowing,trash, parking
41 Have a bathroom at Scotts Woods Park and move the disk golf course from next to the
Fenner Nature Center Preschool to another park like Poxson
43 Make the Lett's Center more of a community center for the actual community
45 more programming for teens and tweens to reduce violence, youth hiring park clean up
program. provide more space for community gardens
47 right now there aren't any adult art classes available. I am interested in not only taking
them, but would be happy to volunteer to lead a monthly or biweekly craft project meant
for adults!
48 More services within the parks to complete with other non-park facilities.
50 1 would expand the trail system to make it a more effective way to get around the city and
I'd keep it clearer in winter.
51 Expand the trail network, including adding non paved trails.
52 More natural area/wild life friendly, not as much cut grass and manicured areas.
53 This is a tough and expensive project, but I think it is time for the city to consider another
indoor ice rink. Washington Park used to have one.The Lansing area is only home to one
rink (not including Munn Ice Arena at MSU). Many customers would like to see another
option, and this would be beneficial to those who would use it on a regular basis but also
could boost the economy.
54 Improve the playgrounds as the equipment becomes vandalized Maintenance of public
garden spaces (ie: Foster Community Center)
55 change the cancellation policy. At least allow the person to receive SOME compensation
if they find the class too challenging.
56 Continuous enforcement of leash laws for dogs - I am on the river trail every other day,
and EVERY DAY I see off leash dogs. Motorized vehicles (dirt bikes,ATVs) on the trail
make it unsafe but there isn't enforcement to keep them away. DRAFT
ResponselD Response
57 Some parks need more maintenance/repairing of playground equipment. Change the
Lawn mowing contract,they are not that great and do not take care with the job they do.
Additionally would love to see when the city comes out to trim a specific tree for a
complaint,that other trees are also trimmed and maintained at the same time, instead of
making multiple trips to the same park.
59 The switch from more traditional playground equipment in recent years is not my
favorite.
60 More slides! It seems a lot of equipment with slides was removed/upgraded in favor of
other types of playground equipment.
61 Better maintenance.The parks need more than just a fast mowing.We need trash pick
up, cleanup under mature trees, dead tree removal and replacing the dead trees, down
Limb pick up,weeding,general care and cleanup. I would love to see a city employee
maintenance team again, other than private companies.
62 Expand the river trail- better non-road linkages to East Lansing and Delta Twp trails,
improve park areas that are lovely but have been neglected for years (I'm thinking in
particular about the abandoned gardens behind Turner Doge - it's a lovely area that the
City has allowed to fall apart), add back access to the River Trail at Dietrich Park
(removal of that reeks of classism and racism due to the prevailing views of the
neighborhood - so gross of the City to do that when revamping the Grand River bridge),
thank you for the update at Comstock Park, it wasn't in time for my kiddo to use it but it
has definitely benefitted the neighborhood.
63 Increase safety, less homelessness, less drug use.
64 Paying for 4 kids gets quite pricey- I would love to see a family rate or a bundle rate (like
if you enroll 4 kids, pay less or if you join multiple recreations over the year, pay less, etc).
Add more play structures to the smaller parks that connect for better"floor is lava"
games for kids.
65 Better advertisement of the parks and rec options -they aren't widely known about for
the most part
66 Repair and maintain infrastructure- pools, buildings, sidewalks and trails
67 Create one annual fee for admission into all of the city parks...pay one parking or
admission fee and visit as much as you want.
68 1 would greatly appreciate the Lansing River Trail being treated as a top priority for snow
clearing and ice treatment as it serves as a commuter route. I would also appreciate
sand/grit being used as an ice treatment instead of salt as sand/grit is friendlier to animal
paws,the environment, and bicycle parts.
69 they need to be clean
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
70 The cleanliness, I'm pretty sure I got the flu after falling face flat on a slide.
71 They need to be cleaner
72 theres a lot of vandalism
73 no
74 1 don't know.
75 None
76 clean environment.
78 hte metal slides
79 Taking care of the animal poop.
80 Add music soccer or other sports.
81 1 would Put swing Park close to it
82 people throwing away their trash
83 ad more benches
84 take animals like parrots, Domestic dogs, Cats.
85 Clean and make them safer.
86 to add more activities in the park.
87 Increase community gardening initiatives.
88 police friendly visits or classes of some kind a bigger community relationship with them.
89 Increase maintenance support
91 1 wish more new people to Lansing were aware of the offerings and the parks available
to them, so they would be more inclined to build roots in Lansing like others including
myself have.
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
93 1 think a key part is marketing. It took me a while to Learn about all of the different
programs that are available to us through the system and registration can get a little bit
expensive for some programs, such as archery I think having more programs that are
open drop in or Less of a commitment are also a good way to involve the community and
get them to know others that might be interested in parks and recreation. Finally, I think
offering some of these spaces that are not being used to community members that might
want to host a zumba class, or something more casual could increase word of mouth
engagement.
94 Continued maintenance of the River Trail- maintaining the trail itself repairing cracks and
potholes, maintaining the wooden bridges. Repair/maintenance and improvement of the
outdoor athletic equipment. Possible expansion of the trail system to make it
Longer/extend to new areas. Improvement/maintenance of the natural areas- removing
invasive, promoting health of flora/fauna in the park system.
96 additional placemaking: benches,tables, pavilions, gardens,trash cans, restrooms.
97 Activate more youth programs for kids in our city
98 Winter river trail maintenance,expand restroom facilities (open them), more interesting
Landscaping/native plant areas/pollinator gardens.
100 Make them a priority. Do not sell our parks off.
101 Make them a priority. Do not sell our parks off.
103 Perhaps make the public restrooms easier to access
104 More staff maintaining them, cleaning up the trash. Could also use some better Lighting
and cameras to make residents feel safe.
105 More collaboration between the school district and the parks and rec department.
108 More youth programs in the summer at City parks.
109 1 would Like to see more highlights of local creators outside of the art trail.We have a
great local music scene and Lots of creative young people who could bring a Lot of energy
into Lansing events and programs.
111 Additional improvements to Grier Park would be great. Better retroom facilities, at the
top of the hill. Picnic facilities.A tiny playground, even.The park is so often used but
needs upgrades and advancements to keep drawing in visitors.
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
112 Bathrooms at all community centers having floor hockey games and tournaments back at
gier! Instead of just bowling for people with disabilities have more things to do dances,
board game night with prizes ,bingo for people with disabilities have the rooms up stairs
at gier opened for kids to do events if something goes on on Saturday morning s! Have a
family game night with other families have the room designed across from concession at
gier for teams to hang out before there game!A bigger gym at foster!
113 Many improvements to the BMX track including replaced berms, lights to hold night
races, and an indoor track for the winter months.
114 Invest in more urban tree canopy to improve shade, air quality and the natural ecosystem.
115 Brighter signs and more signs on main roads leading to individual park locations.
116 More bike related activities like trails
117 Better mowing company....They honestly are not good at mowing
118 More resources for parks staff.
119 More trash cleanup
122 Accessibility, cleaning up trash
123 More kids camps
124 Upkeep like mowing and trash pick up.
126 Updating playgrounds that need maintenance
127 Improve housing for unhoused population so they don't have to live in the parks. I feel
Like I'm disturbing them by running or walking through or near where they are living.
130 More frequent cleanup of litter at parks such as Hunter Park.There is often broken glass
on the paved walkway which is dangerous for pedestrians and pets.
131 Fix drainage so rain doesn't flood and block paths necessary for everyone to enjoy these
spaces
132 1 think more dog parks are essential. We are regular, daily, walkers and there are always
many dogs being walked. Unfortunately some owners are letting them off their leashes
which is dangerous on multiple levels. We witnessed two occasions of unleashed dogs
chasing deer at Frances park directly through the playground area. Had small children
been presented a serious accident resulting in injury could have occurred. Unleashed
dogs in any of our public spaces needs to be unacceptable.
133 Start up creative/art programs again. I know adults are missing them.
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
134 Update sections of the RiverFront trail near Old Town, such as a bridge that has sunk
down one side. Clean up litter.A lot of people experiencing homelessness use this area.
Sometimes I get catcalled and it feels unsafe and they leave a of trash around.
Opportunity to work with homeless shelters and provide information about them, or to
provide food/essentials in these areas.
135 Better maintenance and upkeep of the parks.
136 Better bike and pedestrian access to trails. Protected bike lanes. Sidewalk improvements
137 Expand the River Trail and have more monitoring/upkeep. Lots of debris from unhoused
folks along the banks of the river, and traversing the trail adds up.
138 Trash removal. Most parks have broken glass on the paths at some point.
140 Find a way to get people to stop smoking pot and having open alcohol in Moores and
Frances parks ... all the parks for that matter.
141 More investment in quality athletic programs and facilities for the area youth.The
"recreation" aspect is taken way too seriously and leaves a void of knowledge in its wake
forcing people to look in other places.
143 Turner-Dodge should have 2 full time staffers who are paid &treated as professionals in
the fields of history and event programming. Park& Rec employees should be on a
professional track in their respective roles &be treated as such from hire to retire. In
years past an over-reliance on part-timers has impeded Parks ability to function at a
higher capacity--from kids camps to historical programming. From Marketing to
maintenance. If these roles were professional level,full time jobs,there would be much
better results.
144 Accessible bathrooms along walking trails
145 I'm originally from Houghton in the UP. I've always wished there were a real ice outdoor
rink.
146 Make decisions about parks and recreation more public and transparent.
147 More activities that are free a guide in the parks shelters in most pRks
148 More activities that are free a guide in the parks shelters in most pRks
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
149 This is complicated because the root of the issue is outside of parks and rec, which is the
city needs a more robust program to help house unhoused individuals.When we were at
Adado last week we couldn't walk down the trail because a tent was under the bridge
blocking the trail.The solution isn't to be clearing encampments, everyone needs to sleep
somewhere but putting pressure on the city to help create affordable housing and more
inclusive,temporary shelters to get folks under roofs which not only gets folks on a path
to success but allows us to enjoy the river more.Something more directly controllable by
parks and rec is just in general keeping trash out of the river.We were walking along the
river trail that runs next to Frances park and I had to climb down the rocks to pull an
entire sex doll out of the river because I thought someone had drowned when I first saw
it.Then I realized what it was and had my husband take our daughter far enough away I
could pull it out and throw it away.There was trash every where on my climb down and
back.Also planting native filter plants to keep runoff from the roads would help.
150 Better care of the natural environment surrounding and within the parks
151 More playgrounds at parks.
152 Improve facilities in locations near apartments in Ward 2 like Kaynorth. Add picnic areas,
accessible toys for kids, seating etc.
153 connections between parks and trails on the south side. it's not safe to allow kids to walk
to our local parks because of cars, lack of sidewalks, and lack of bike infrastructure. our
12-year-old used to be able to walk to parks with her friends in our previous city.
154 More cleaning to make the parks safe for kids and people in general (restroom
cleanliness, litter/trash disposal)
155 Better maintenance and improving some of the parks that are basically just green space,
Like Marshall Park. Fairview Park could also use some work on the asphalt trails. In the
winter it would also be nice if Fairview Park could have its trail plowed to make it more
accessible.
156 How to learn more about what each offers
157 Honestly many facilities are trashed.
158 Put signs in all city parks and at all entrances to have people keep their dogs on a leash
at all times as well as cleaning up after their dog. Everett Waldo and Poxson need more
signs. Limit the soccer use at Everett Park so other residents can take full use of the park
for their families etc and not be limited in what they can do when it's overrun by soccer
use.
160 No more grifting Schor
161 More public art in our spaces. Get rid of that silly little village/ice skating thing
downtown. It's an eyesore and no one uses it.
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
162 1 would like to see some cleaner parks, I already clean up hunter park and right now I
cannot remember if there are enough trash cans there or they need to be emptied more
frequently. I would like to see some more clean public restrooms. I would like to see
more free city events,there is one that happens the same weekend every August I would
Like to see it happen at other times of the year as well.
163 Park maintenance needs to improve.
164 1 dislike having to drive to other municipalities parks to do outdoor pickleball! I wish there
were more options
165 More native and conservation plantings and education on local wildlife
166 More open gym access. More times. More days.
167 More bathrooms near the river trail
169 Continue expanding the bike path.
170 I'm continually impressed with the parks and rec offerings.
171 Maintenance in lesser visited areas to encourage use of all parks.Advertise/plan more
Large community events.
172 Improve the parks.There are a lot.of small parks without much to do. It would be nice to
have one or two feature parks (like Hawk Island).
173 Expand the river trail. Focus efforts on trail as a resource for a less car centric commute
from neighborhoods to downtown. Current focus on recreation is nice but population
would use the trail and an expanded network to get to work and if it was heated/plowed
it could be used all year
174 Pickleball!
175 more accessible bathrooms , more doggie bag stations, more trash receptacles,trail
maintenance, invasive species management.
176 More paved bike trails and park more walking trails thru parks something similar to
Valhalla in holt
177 More cycle route connections that don't cross roads
178 More activities and events. Maybe outdoor movies.
179 Narrow roads and demolish parking lots to increase area for parks,
pedestrian/bicycle/bus lanes, &tree cover. Or integrate native plants into more natural
Landscaping/decrease lawns
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
180 Many playgrounds are badly maintained. Rust, sharp edges, dangerous wear and tear.
Add this to lack of accessibility for even minorly disabled children, and the fun can get
sucked out fast.
181 1 would upgrade all the community centers to make them have Ultra Modern facilities
and I would also improve our funding for hosting and organized basketball events
popular rise in them or they become common and very popular and will become known
as the city of tournaments
182 More attention to timely repairs. Perhaps hire more personnel.
183 Improve boardwalks and trails
184 Better access and maintenance
185 Clean grounds, maintained/updated facilities.
186 Keep up the good work! General playground updates
187 Expand the river trail and maintenance the existing trails
188 More frequent flyers, mailers of recreational programs. Perhaps a dedicated website for
Lansing recreation with an interactive calendar. Add more amenities to some parks even
if that means closing other neighborhood parks and selling the land.The later is
controversial I know, but city parks are lot to maintain.
189 Naturalization.A lot of parks have too much turf grass in edge areas or less than ideal
areas that make any use difficult so that could be converted for animaVinsect habitat.
Build a roller hockey rink. Finish river trail throughout city.
190 Hire a company that will take pride in maintaining the lawn of each park.And not keep
using united who constantly cuts with the deck in the locked all the way up position.
Leaving clumps and half cut grass 6-8" long all season.
191 The Downtown and Parks and Rec should coordinate to plan/encourage a more bike-
friendly downtown with connectivity to the neighborhoods and river trails. Please
maintain the urban canopy downtown and along Michigan Ave.Thank you for all your
work.
192 Quit with the contract maintenance and get a robustly sized staff back in place. Open,
green space is vital to physical and mental well-being -- so care for it, like it deserves to
be taken care of. Currently it is overwhelmed by trash, run-down/busted equipment, lack
of rest-rooms, high-hazard trees and A TOTAL LACK OF COMPREHENSIVE
MANAGEMENT OF those spaces!! I am a volunteer steward for one of the parks and
know these things from experience.
194 Cleanup, empty trash, rest room availability
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
195 maintain parks, more free programs for all children in Lansing
196 Add more activities and entertainment(concerts in the park, Meetups, live music, live
painting, performances, etc.) geared toward working adults, adults who don't have kids,
and young/middle aged professionals.We have more than enough "fun for the whole
family".
197 Increase of river trail connections between key areas
198 Secure them in the evenings to try and prevent vandalism and/or vagrants from entering
after hours.These days too much illegal activity occurring at night in parks, making it
unsafe for citizens to feel comfortable.
199 Having more native plantings and gardens is my biggest priority. I would love to have
fewer grassy lawns and more winding trails between gardens within each park. I know
the question asks for a single most important feature, but I think it is worth mentioning
that many parks lack benches and shade!
200 Maintain and mow them as they should be. Parks have been an embarrassment the last
few years with them not being maintained!
201 signage to small parks and parking, have a toilet at all locations
204 Covered shelter is nice
206 More classes for adults/seniors on east side of Lansing
207 More bike paths like the river trail.
208 In my opinion, more bike trails and proper, protected bike lanes on major thoroughfares.
209 Build better trails and riverfront.The boardwalk should be awesome along the river (look
at detroit).Yet, Lansing's is shut down half of the time because the boards are rotten.
There should be flowers along the river, public art,things to do, Street vendors. But
there's nothing.
211 1 would continue to expand the river trail to link parks and invest in or promote
opportunities for adults to have sport leagues
214 The parking areas could use some improvement and moderate expansion.
219 Find a safe place where unhoused people can go other than the parks
221 1 would like to see more connections within Lansing and connections to delta township,
Dewitt, etc. Add athletic fields or hard court to downtown adjacent parks. More intense
trash management and policing the homeless population
222 Promise the programs offered DRAFT
ResponselD Response
223 Security or more oversight from staff as far as inappropriate behavior by people at the
parks. It's rare for us to go without hearing someone cussing someone out at a full yell,
smelling weed every 5 minutes, or some random drunk is on the sidewalk asking for
money.
224 More free events
225 Keep them out of disrepair. Many hard surfaces are unusable. Moore's park is one of the
biggest and best parks but our hard surfaces are completely useless apart from the 3v3
basketball court,that I don't think is even apart of the park system technically, but the
old school.
226 While we are pleased that the school district is experiencing student expansion at Hill
school, as seniors we are concerned that this may have a negative impact on senior
activities at the same location. We started going to the center a little over a year ago and
have seen a significant increase in its popularity in the same time.
228 B2 lacks walkable access to parks. Waverly has no sidewalks to cross the bridge nor
safe crosswalks. I'd love to see a foot path between Sunset Hill and Wilson
neighborhoods to Grand Woods and elsewhere south of the river
229 1 would love to see better connectivity between parks that aren't on the Lansing River
Trail. It would also be great to see some initiatives to teach residents about native plant
species and invasive plant species that they'll see while spending time in the parks.
Resources could be provided on how residents can help to stop the spread of invasive
species and how to safely remove them. Similar to how Hawk Island has information
posted about invasive garlic mustard.
231 Connect them to safe walkways and bikeways
232 Make them more connected for people without access to cars
233 Open geese hunting
234 Connectivity to neighborhoods. It's hard to get to fenner across aurelius. Why can't I get
from my hope cemetery across aurelius? I have to go in a big loop north. Or from the
south?All fense. Scott woods is fences off. Hawk Island is fenced off.There are so many
dangerous fast streets on the south side. We need traffic calming and more entrances
235 Work to activate and program Moores Park Pool; partner with groups to hold events in
smaller parks. Allow the use of pop up tents on parks for events. Generate earned
revenue through events, programs and sponsorships.
236 More water features to add to the relaxation. Can still remember as a little girl driving
downtown on a hot night for a root beer float then a drive past the fountain at Reutter
park
237 Upgrade playground equipment DRAFT
ResponselD Response
239 Security.Too many times I've seen a fight, or someone extremely messed up on drugs, or
someone blasting very foul music. It's the biggest reason we end up leaving or don't go.
240 Instead of fixing the parks,find a place for people who live under bridges and sleep in
the parks
242 Pollinator reefs/gardens
243 Clean areas to swim! Restrooms
244 Continue linking and expanding non-motorized trails and update signage (especially
including maps along trails).
245 Safety and cleanliness
246 The website for parks and rec classes is difficult to navigate.Also, I wish there were
swimming lessons offered for adults.
248 I'd have more opportunities like skating, kayaking,that youth can participate in.
249 Perform major improvements to depleted parks and failing infrastructure
250 Snacks lol
252 Cleaner and better maintained, most playgrounds often are filled with garbage that is
dangerous to children
253 Make programs more affordable, increase age to include teenagers, work with the school
district to have more facilities and lower the cost.
254 Focus on accessibility and safety for the parks
256 Continue accessibility improvements and increase security on the River Trail.
257 Improve access and safety. Parks should be accessible by foot from adjacent
neighborhoods
258 More public communication about parks/nature within Lansing people can enjoy for free.
260 Interconnected bike trails between parks
262 Open the restrooms year round, maintain the parks, have adequate trash removal and
trash cans
263 Better communication with the activities guides. I used to get them in the mail but for
some reason I don't anymore.
DRAF8T
ResponselD Response
264 Provide accessible bathrooms open hours and trash cans
265 I'd love to see more money devoted to Fenner Nature Center to support their work. In
addition to natural areas I'd also like a skate park in the city.
267 More programs at Foster
269 Make sure they are maintained
270 It's hard to pick one thing. I know Parks and Rec has already been working on this, but I
think continuing to develop and sustain programs where young people esp.teens can get
involved after school is important right now. I don't think young people are getting
enough support and guidance in general in our city
271 More trash cans in the parks and parking lots.
272 Add more trails to the smaller neighborhood parks that promotes running. Incorporate
nature on trails and make improvements with updating old equipment
273 More multi-use spaces (trails with playgrounds and rec areas) and better maintained
parks
274 Make them nice, all of them not just the few
275 Litter control seems to be an issue.
276 Creating more outdoor fitness areas, sensory areas, assebility for everyone
277 Keep parks open until 12 midnight and add bon fire pits. Also an ice skating rink NOT
made of plastic.
278 Keep them maintained and secured better.
279 Increasing the variety of the types of trails, etc.
280 Create more infrastructure for public,fun, active use, such as disc golf and pickleball
courts
281 A lot of the traditional playground equipment has been replaced with equipment that
neighborhood kids don't like. We've discovered these playgrounds to be underutilized.
Bring back swings and slides for example. And have toddler and small child play areas.
282 Other than previously mentioned. Enhance bike, pedestrian, and bus access. Create
family friendly corridors for bike travel between parks. Lansing is an extremely car-
centric place to live; it would be nice to see that diminish.
283 A rink for roller skating
DRAFT
ResponselD Response
284 Keep trash cleaned out, address dumping and camping
285 The parks are great. Some of them need maintenance. And more safety. Moore's park is
super sketch sometimes. It also doesn't help that police don't respond when you have an
issue there.
286 Have monthly clean ups with the surrounding neighborhoods of city parks and get
volunteers to continue to build our community
287 1 don't know what can be done about creepy old white men harassing me on the trails,
but sometimes I don't go just because I don't want the risk. Also a natural areas that
could be enjoyed after dark in the winter would be so helpful. In winter it's already dark
when I get home from work but all parks close at dusk, so it's difficult to find a nice place
to walk my dog.
288 security, liter, homeless camp trash.
289 Improve safety (specifically on the river trail)
290 Safety.
291 Expanded arts programs for adults - I take ceramic classes through the city of East
Lansing since they aren't offered here. I'd also like more class options or a fitness center
at Letts,the community center closest to me.
292 I'm definitely interested in the recreation activities the city has to offer, but as someone
new to Lansing, I didn't know about them for a while. I'd love to see more athletic
facilities-tracks, pickle ball courts,volleyball nets etc.
293 Increase the connectivity of the river trail to the Westside
294 Add more options.The nice places are too busy.There's not enough safe places to go
anywhere else.
295 We live Moores park but it seems like it could be safer.We sometimes feel uneasy there.
296 Water the trees that we do plant, and plant more.
297 Improvement of run down areas and maintenance of the park. (mowing, gardens, etc.
298 more trails
299 More gym space for sports/sports practice
300 Litter cleanup especially glass. Graffiti control. Continue to have great art projects on the
River Trail. Keep Bancroft safe and natural, don't sell it to the golf course!
302 See prior comment DRAFT
ResponselD Response
303 We have the infrastructure already build for restrooms and yet they're often closed
except by events request. Public amenities are the backbone of a city. We need to find
the maintenance of the restrooms to keep them open year round. (Example- Bancroft
park relies on a gate opener and closer. Why not have them lock the restrooms at night
and open in the morning and then those are eyes that can report maintenance issues)
304 1 would make more forested areas and do better stewardship practices so that invasive
plants don't get spread by mowers. Find ways to reduce fossil fuel use and become more
sustainable for the future.This would reduce noise and air pollution while also
supporting wildlife better.
305 improve safety (policing)
307 Maintain them better. More trash cans.
308 Proper lighting in and around the parks including parking lot light.
309 Know more about events going on. More safe walking options.
310 The river trail so I can ride my bike without destroying my bum and my bike.
311 Work to dissolve the mediation agreement at Soldan's Dog Park only 1 remaining
signature resides in the area.
312 Make programs cheaper and offer free after school care available AT the schools again
313 Additional enrichment and fitness programming for adults
314 The only thing I would suggest is raising general awareness of how functional and well-
maintained the River Trail is. It's really such a huge perk and attraction.
315 Signs to communicate with patrons. I.e. programming, upcoming changes, etc.
316 More access to nature in the city. Maintained paths in the winter.Access to bathrooms.
317 Have more paved interconnected bike trails connecting more parks in Lansing. Have
playgrounds in parks be a mix of platforms and climbing structures.And swings. More
nature-y wandering trails throughout parks.
319 Enforcement of no motor vehicle policies (dirt bikes, ATVs) on trails and within parks.
320 More winter activities.The city needs a great sledding hill.
321 1 ould improve the safety along the river trail, Reuter and Letts park. I would also make
more adult activities during the weekend and off hours.
DRAF8T
ResponselD Response
322 Safety!!!!!Too many dangerous, off leash dogs and zero enforcement of leash laws. Also,
many motorized rec vehicles (dirt bikes,four wheelers) on river trail. So dangerous, no
enforcement.
323 Less "Karen's"
324 Improve ease of finding programs on website.The website filtering is difficult and does
not provide results one would expect.As if programs are not categorized the way
someone would expect.
325 We're planning to move.
327 Offer more options for working adults in the evenings and weekends. More community
based interest groups (like a walk/run club)
328 Use the vacant land owned by schools or the city to expand parks. Grow low
maintenance native plants and flowers instead of grass. More drinking fountains or water
bottle filling station
329 Add more sports fields
330 Basic maintenance
331 Na
333 the bathrooms at ranney skatepark need to be open to public not just for the use of
Lansing community college softball games
334 Accessible covered picnic pavilions
335 1 would love for the paths to be better maintained and for there to be accessible
bathrooms.
336 Some have parking issues.as to needing repaved.And also litter control
337 Offer more of a varietyy of art classes - us old folk need to keep our minds sharp!
338 More native trees, more trees in general planted. We have a lot of old trees and I am
concerned about the canopy being replaced as those older trees get taken down for
varying reasons.
339 The employees who are responsible for maintaining things like the bathrooms at the
parks should be better, my husband works with the women that are responsible and he
says they're lazy and don't even do their job. Remove the drug use, and homelessness
taking over.Washington park for example, all that"natural" area did was create the
perfect environment to hide and do illegal activities at the park. Go there some time in
the summer and see everyone hanging out of their cars or up on the field where they
shouldn't be and you will be surprised at what you see. DRAFT
ResponselD Response
340 Maintaining surfaces, removing trash
341 If would be nice to not have so many homeless people and encampments around the
rivertrail and parks. Wish they had housing and a place to gather not laying on the trail,
under the pavilions, etc...
343 Dedicated safety and regular maintenance
344 Clean them up, especially broken glass and trash.
345 A campaign to keep the parks clean. People little too much. Campaign to discourage
graffiti. We have amazing stuff just need community empowerment to keep it maintained
346 Add clean bathrooms.
347 1 would increase native plantings and try to restore some of the riverbank (restore is
probably not the right term). Our rivers are an incredible asset and having the riverbank
in better shape would be awesome.
DRAFT
a
Q
J
Q
H
ix
Q
3
m
AFT
r
n tyy.' f�,tom.•. �.,s �E�1� � xt a
�J � � Tc •. ,y_ �.�ar
ArIF
LU
lap
aw
04
lot
1+_ t
•. - - P k �.
1
I -
_ it ✓" �
Id
F I j
/ T'
.1�
1 1