In the heart of Grand Haven Charter Township, a new recreational haven has emerged, thanks to the generosity of Jim Schmidt and the collective effort of numerous stakeholders. Schmidt Heritage Park is a sprawling public recreation site that stands as a testament to effective community collaboration and innovative planning. The journey began with a significant donation from Jim Schmidt, a local businessman committed to preserving his family’s legacy. Schmidt donated nearly 75 acres of land to the Township with the condition that the park must be completed by a specific deadline or the land would revert to him. This stipulation set the stage for an ambitious project requiring meticulous planning and swift execution.
Prein&Newhof was enlisted by Grand Haven Charter Township to transform Schmidt’s vision into reality. The team, led by Project Manager Kevin Kieft, PE, had a role that encompassed everything from planning and budgeting to community engagement and utility coordination. The challenge was not just to design and build, but to do so within a tight timeframe while ensuring the park met the diverse needs of the community. Prein&Newhof’s comprehensive services included soil borings, groundwater testing, topsoil evaluation, site and drainage design, and the design of essential infrastructure such as sanitary sewers and water mains. The diverse team of engineers and landscape architects also developed detailed conceptual renderings, cost estimates, and site designs to guide the project from start to finish.
To address the community’s recreational needs, Grand Haven Charter Township and Prein&Newhof’s landscape architecture team, led by Matt Levandoski, PLA, collaborated with the Northwest Ottawa Recreation Commission. The team conducted thorough assessments to determine the optimal sizes and configurations for soccer, baseball, and softball fields. They also engaged with the local pickleball community to confirm that the design of twelve pickleball courts would make the park a prime destination for future tournaments. Designing the park required extensive consultation with experts across various fields, including irrigation and turf management. This collaborative approach would help the park to not only meet the community’s current needs but also to be sustainable and easy to maintain in the long term.
Following the successful passage of a recreational millage funded by the community, construction began during the winter of 2022. Accurate cost estimates and engaging renderings had successfully generated excitement and support, paving the way for this critical step in breaking ground. The first phase included the construction of soccer fields, baseball and softball fields, pickleball courts, trails, restrooms, shelters, and parking areas. The site’s underground infrastructure, including water mains and sanitary sewers, was completed during the winter months before mass grading began to maintain a smooth process.
Prein&Newhof played an important role throughout the construction process, providing detailed project administration from construction staking to overseeing the development of park amenities. CopperRock Construction served as the general contractor and worked to bring the design to life, including the complete construction of key facilities like restrooms and boardwalks. The project’s success was bolstered by the emphasis on using local subcontractors, which not only supported the local economy but also encouraged the project’s completion to the highest standards.
The newly constructed Schmidt Heritage Park now offers a diverse array of recreational opportunities. Active spaces include soccer fields, baseball and softball diamonds, and pickleball courts, while passive areas like the “Jo-Jo Jogging Trail” feature trails through wooded uplands and elevated boardwalks. The park also includes shelters for gatherings and organized activities, enhancing its role as a gathering place for the community. The involvement of local recreational groups was instrumental in tailoring the park to community needs and confirming that the facilities would support the expansion of local sports and activities. The establishment of a maintenance fund through the community foundation secures the park’s ongoing upkeep and service quality while reflecting a commitment to long-term sustainability.
The completion of Schmidt Heritage Park marks a significant milestone for Grand Haven Charter Township. It highlights a successful collaboration between a dedicated donor, a proactive design and construction team, and an engaged community. The park not only provides a venue for various recreational activities but also embodies the heart of the Township’s slogan: “Live Where You Play.”
As the park continues to thrive, it stands as a lasting tribute to Jim Schmidt’s vision and the community’s dedication to enhancing local recreational opportunities. The project’s success demonstrates the importance of community involvement, detailed planning, and creative problem-solving in achieving shared goals. Schmidt Heritage Park is more than just a recreational facility; it is a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together to create something truly special.
Does your community need assistance with creating recreational spaces? Call Matt Levandoski, PLA at 616-364-8491.
