Heart-to-Hart: Transforming a Downtown Space into a Vibrant, Family-Friendly Oasis

City of Hart

The Story

Nestled in picturesque Oceana County, the City of Hart is celebrated for its welcoming atmosphere, vibrant culture, and scenic beauty. Located near the Hart-Montague Rail Trail and just a short drive from Lake Michigan, Hart combines outdoor activities with small-town charm.

To enhance community spaces, Hart set out to transform a small green space between S. State Street and a parking area connecting to S. Courtland Street into a downtown pocket park. The city hosted a public placemaking and design charrette to gather input and develop a concept plan based on key principles: Sociability, Access and Linkages, Comfort and Image, and Uses and Activities.

Funded by CDBG funds and city financing, the pocket park emerged as a unique, family-friendly space featuring a fountain, play areas, seating, and landscaping. This transformation revitalized a central location in downtown Hart, creating a vibrant area for community gatherings and activities.

Our Role

Landscape Architecture

Contact

Matt Levandoski, PLA
Project Manager
616-394-0200

Funding

CDBG and City Financing

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