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.