Heartside Park is a2.99 acres park in the Heartside neighborhood of Grand Rapids, and is a result of residents working together toward a common goal.
Formally occupied by railroad tracks and a rail yard, the site's conversion to a park arose when Catholic Central High School eyed it for a playground and soccer field. That idea dispersed in 1995, but residents continued to advance the idea for a park. The park was dedicated in 2004.
In 2007 the Heartside-Downtown Neighborhood Association (HDNA) worked with City Parks and Recreation Department officials to develop community garden space along the westernmost edge of the park. 6 raised beds were constructed during the annual Clean Sweep event. Volunteers currently maintain the garden during growing season. The garden intentionally grows produce that park users will enjoy. For this reason, no fences were constructed around the beds. Garden plots can be reserved with priority given to individuals who are homeless or who otherwise have no garden space. Garden plot reservations can be made at the HDNA website.
Plans for the 2008 growing season include planting requests from Hard Times Cafe members.
