Parks
Building on a firm foundation
by (FriendsofGRParks)
Submitted 11-12-2013 under PLACE-MATTERS
During the last few months there has been a lot of discussion about the history, value and funding of parks in Grand Rapids. Last month, The Rapidian featured a three part series “Why Parks Matter” by Michael Tuffelmire where he explored...
Parks as place markers record our city's history
by (Tim Gleisner)
Submitted 10-15-2013 under PLACE-MATTERS
Our parks tell the story of many of our historical moments as a city, and serve as gathering places as we process the events of our lives. “[I can] never forget one incident of that terrible day of the assassination of President...
Why parks matter: The current condition of parks and how the millage will help
by (Michael Tuffelmire)
Submitted 10-10-2013 under OPINION
The first step to solving a problem is admitting you have one. That is what Grand Rapids must currently do in order for the city to continue to grow to its full potential. Presently the City of Grand Rapids owns and operates 73 parks and public...
Why parks matter: How our parks affect city life
by (Michael Tuffelmire)
Submitted 10-09-2013 under OPINION
In an era of urban revitalization that is creating increased populations in American urban environments, it is important for cities to maintain the appropriate levels and quality of green space to keep up with the growth. Various studies indicate...
Planting trees, growing community
by (FriendsofGRParks)
Submitted 09-03-2013 under PLACE-MATTERS
You enjoy the benefits provided by trees every day. Some of them are obvious; others are not. Perhaps not entirely intuitive is the role that trees play in our community. Various research demonstrates that trees help to make streets safer, deter...
Mark Sala, Sweet J Band perform for final Concert in the Park of 2013
by (magical)
Submitted 08-12-2013 under NEWS
The weather appeared to be threatening the last summer Concert in the Park at Lamar Park. However, their was plenty of sunshine in time for the concert on August 6. There were plenty of activities for both the young and old to enjoy. There were...
What the Flood of 2013 tells us about the importance of a healthy urban forest
by (FriendsofGRParks)
Submitted 07-01-2013 under NONPROFITS
Trees are often associated with nature; the woods, the forest, or perhaps a national park. But trees are also an important part of our urban landscape. Walk down any City street or enjoy some time in a park, and you’ll recognize the numerous...
Friends of Grand Rapids Parks to receive National Arbor Day Foundation Award
by (FriendsofGRParks)
Submitted 04-21-2013 under NONPROFITS
Friends of Grand Rapids Parks is the recipient of a 2013 Arbor Day Award in honor of its outstanding contribution to tree planting, conservation and stewardship, the Arbor Day Foundation announced today. Friends of Grand Rapids Parks will receive...
Pleasant Park receives $300,000 development award
by (George)
Submitted 12-08-2011 under NEWS
The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) has committed $300,000 of the total $731,00 needed to convert an empty 2.3 acre parking lot at the southeast corner of Madison Avenue and Pleasant Street to a fully functional neighborhood park....
[AUDIO] Joe Taylor Park Set to Open on Grand Rapids' SE Side
by (WYCE_Matt)
Submitted 06-21-2011 under NEWS
West Michigan Environmental Action Council's Dan Schoonmaker speaks with Steve Faber, Executive Director of Friends of Grand Rapids Parks. Faber talks about Baxter neighborhoods' new Joe Taylor Park, opening June 29th, saying the world-class...