Northville Parks & Recreation is planning its future and needs the public’s assistance in mapping it out.

It has launched a brief online survey to collect preferences on how the community likes to have fun when it comes to its recreation programs and area parks. The answers will drive the new 5-Year Parks Master Plan, which shapes future projects and operations for the next several years.

To access the survey, participants should visit www.surveymonkey.com/r/NorthvillePR. It will take 5 to 10 minutes to complete.

Because Northville Parks & Recreation is a shared service between Northville Township and the City of Northville and used by the region’s visitors, the survey includes questions tailored to which municipality the participant resides. Those who are from Northville Township, for instance, will have questions that touch on Legacy Park, the 332-acree green space formerly home to the Northville Regional Psychiatric Hospital. One consistent query throughout: What new or expanded recreation activities should be offered?

This survey and the 5-Year Master Plan are the first projects for new Northville Parks and Recreation Director Derek O. Smith, who stepped into office July 3.

“This is a great opportunity for me to learn about what’s important to residents directly from them and from our nearby neighbors,” Director Smith said. “It’s also an important tool to ensure our community’s happiness with our parks and recreation system long term.”

Not only does this 5-Year Master Plan provide a roadmap for growth, but it also opens up opportunities for grants through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) to support its vision. The Master Plan must be approved by MDNR and updated every five years.

“Northville Parks and Recreation will use it to inventory existing facilities and resources, identify community recreation and open space needs to create a plan of action,” Director Smith said.

The opinion survey is the first step in learning what the community needs and desires for its park system.

Two public meetings are planned for collecting further input and to discuss possibilities of enhancing park programs and amenities. The first open-to-the-public meeting will be held at:

The Northville Community Center
303 W. Main Street in Northville
Thursday, Aug. 3, 2023
3– 7 pm

Residents may talk with the planners and provide direct input into the master planning process.  

“Northville Parks & Recreation’s offerings have always been top notch,” said Northville Township Supervisor Mark J. Abbo. “This survey and the 5-Year Parks Master Plan are an important check-in with our residents to make sure we are growing, improving and enhancing the quality of life for those who are fortunate to call this region home.”