Help Shape the Future of Grand Rapids Parks & Recreation

The City of Grand Rapids is updating its Parks & Recreation Strategic Master Plan - the roadmap that will guide future investments in parks, trails, recreation programs, and public spaces through 2032. This survey will help identify community priorities, understand how people use our parks, and explore new opportunities for recreation and connection.

Whether you visit a neighborhood park every day or only a few times a year, your experiences and ideas will help inform the next chapter of Grand Rapids Parks & Recreation.

Estimated time: 10-15 minutes

Thank you for participating and helping us build a healthier, more connected, and more vibrant Grand Rapids.

 

Let the survey begin! 

How often do you visit Grand Rapids parks, trails, or recreation facilities?

Daily
Several times a week
Several times a month
A few times a year
Rarely
Never
Closed to responses

Which parks or recreation amenities do you use most often?

Select up to 5.

Trails
Playgrounds
Sports fields/courts
Splash pads
Dog Parks
Open lawns
Natural play areas
Riverfront parks
Picnic shelters
Community events
Recreation programs
Community gardens
Fishing areas
Boat Launches / river access
Kayaking
Walking Paths
Disc golf
Skate parks
Outdoor fitness / exercise equipment
Mountain bike trails
Other
Closed to responses

How would you rate the following Grand Rapids Parks & Recreation items:

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When you think about the future of Grand Rapids parks, which improvements would have the greatest positive impact on your community?

Select up to 3.

Better neighborhood park maintenance
More trail connections between parks
Improved access to the Grand River
More trees and natural areas
More recreation programs and events
More gathering spaces for family and friends
Better accessibility for all abilities
Safer parks through design and activation
Better athletic fields and courts
More public art and cultural experiences
More opportunities for teens and young adults
Better winter recreation opportunities
Other
Closed to responses

Looking ahead, what should Grand Rapids Parks & Recreation be known for?

Rank the following priorities from highest to lowest. To rank, drag each item into your preferred order and select "Save Selection" when you're finished.

Closed to responses

What NEW OR EXPANDED recreation opportunities would you most like to see in Grand Rapids parks?

Select up to 5.

More opportunities to connect with nature
Kayaking, paddling, and river experiences
Birding and wildlife programs
Nature play and exploration areas
Winter recreation (sledding, snowshoeing, ice activities)
Outdoor fitness classes
Walking clubs and community hikes
Bike pump tracks and cycling skills areas
Climbing or bouldering features
Outdoor concerts and movie nights
Public art and temporary art installations
Cultural festivals and community celebrations
Flexible gathering spaces for events
Teen gathering spaces
Adventure playgrounds
Expanded summer and after-school programs
I would like to see existing amenities improved before adding new amenities
Other
Closed to responses

If additional funding became available, where should the Parks & Rec Department focus first?

Select up to 3. Think about the investments that would make the biggest difference for you, your household, or your neighborhood.

Multi-purpose athletic fields
Basketball, tennis, pickleball, and futsal courts
Skate parks and wheeled recreation
Bike pump tracks and mountain biking
Trails and walking loops
River access and paddling facilities
Outdoor fitness equipment
Playgrounds and family recreation
Picnic shelters and gathering spaces
Dog parks
Other
Closed to responses

Which amenities would make you feel the safest in parks?

Select all that apply,

Visible sight lines
Lighting
Activation
Security cameras
Patrolling
Maintained and clean park space
Other
Closed to responses

How safe do you feel in Grand Rapids parks?

Slide to select your response. Then, if you'd like, tell us more in the comment box below. Whether it's a personal experience, a specific park, or an idea for the future, your comments help us better understand what will make our parks safer.

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What barriers make it difficult for you or your household to use parks and recreation programs?

Select all that apply. Then, if you'd like, tell us more in the comment box below.

Lack of time
Distance/transportation
Safety concerns
Cost
Lack of awareness
Accessibility limitations
Programs don't match my interests
Language/cultural barriers
Lack of shade or comfort amenities
Parks are not well maintained
Lack of equipment
Programs occur at inconvenient times
I do not feel welcomed
No major barriers
Other
Closed to responses

What are the MOST important roles parks and recreation should play in Grand Rapids?

Select up to 3.

Improving physical health
Supporting mental health and relaxation
Protecting nature and wildlife
Connecting neighborhoods
Providing youth activities
Supporting community events and culture
Creating safe gathering spaces
Expanding trail and bike connections
Increasing access to the Grand River
Supporting older adults and families
Addressing climate resiliency/environmental sustainability
Other
Closed to responses

What is the single most important change you would like to see in Grand Rapids parks over the next 5 years?

Closed to responses

Before taking this survey, were you aware of the following?

Select all that apply.

Recreation scholarships
GR Outside/ Gear Library
Summer camps
Adaptive recreation programs
River recreation programs
Park improvement projects
Closed to responses

Is there anything else you'd like us to know?

Share your ideas, experiences, or hopes for the future of Grand Rapids Parks & Recreation. Whether it's a favorite park, a challenge you've experienced, a new idea, or something we haven't asked about, we'd love to hear from you.

Closed for Comments