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Wahlfield Park Improvements Increase Access for Mountain Bikers Looking to Shred Extensive Trail System
Grand Rapids (Aug. 28, 2023) - Area mountain bikers will have easier access to the trail system at Wahlfield Park in Comstock Park after a new trailhead and parking lot were completed as part of a Phase I development project, the Kent County Parks Department announced today.
The project was made possible through a funding partnership with Kent County Community Action, which used Community Development Block Grant CARES Act funds. The funding has a special focus to benefit income eligible populations and help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
“These types of inter-county collaborations are a great way to help expand access to our parks system and allow even more people to enjoy some of the best parks in the country,” said Kent County Board of Commissioners Chair Stan Stek. “Wahlfield Park is a wonderful place that everyone can enjoy, and it’s especially gratifying to see it become a destination spot for mountain biking.”
The 280-acre park provides free recreation for visitors to hike, mountain bike, or use the picnic pavilions and playgrounds.
“Two county departments were able to work together to identify a need to expand outdoor access in response to COVID-19,” said Gustavo Perez, Kent County Community Action director. “Over 28,000 residents live within a ten-minute drive of Wahlfield Park -- nearly half of whom have low to moderate incomes. The new north entrance and parking lot help alleviate congestion previously experienced in the one small parking area and provide easy access to enjoy the outdoors.”
The Kent County Parks Department conducted a public master plan process for the park in 2020. The plan included activating the north half of the park to include a new mountain bike trailhead parking lot, restrooms, enclosed and open shelters, and an off-leash dog park.
“Wahlfield Park is already an incredible asset to the county, and this project ensures more of the park is open and accessible to our residents,” said Ben Swayze, the Kent County Parks Department director. “We are excited to begin Phase II of the project to provide even more recreation opportunities for the community.”
Phase II will include permanent restroom facilities and an open shelter to be funded through a combination of county Capital Improvement Plan and American Rescue Plan Act funds. The county continues to seek funding to include the dog park as part of Phase II.
The new north parking lot and trail connections will be open to the public on Labor Day weekend.
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