Changes to Millennium Park’s master plan unveiled today

Five years ago, Kent County Parks officials developed a master plan for their crown jewel attraction, Millennium Park. Much remains the same – a testament to the planners’ vision – but proposed changes will be unveiled today from 3-7pm at the park’s Beach House.

Millennium Park, which drew nearly 500,000 visitors last year, stretches 1,500 acres along the Grand River on the city’s southwest side. It connects Johnson Park with John Ball Park to amass nearly 1,800 acres of green space total. Inside are picnic areas, a beach with volleyball courts and other facilities, trails, sculptures and a host of other amenities nestled into the natural setting.

Proposed changes to the master plan are huddled in three areas.

Some changes are under consideration for the gateway center on the park’s east end, near John Ball Park. An “international play area” is planned that will suggest such faraway destinations as the Alps and Easter Island to youngsters. A new civic plaza, enlarged trailhead, welcome center and park administrative offices are also possible.

In the middle of the park, officials are planning a commons area, complete with picnic areas, parking, restrooms and education facilities (both a heritage and nature center). The major change here is the relocation of the nature center to cut down on the amount of land disturbed throughout the park.

On the west side, improvements to the wetlands system are planned – including a concerted effort to rip out invasive species of plants. And the park’s trail system will be enlarged to nearly 20 miles, according to the new plans.

To date, nearly $20 million has been spent on land acquisition, construction and conservation. The master plan’s original budget is $25 million; about $15 million coming from the county, $5 million from the state and another $5 million from private donors. Roger Sabine, parks director of Kent County, said additional funding would come from grants and donors.

Source: Roger Sabine, Kent County Parks Director