There are big plans to improve Hall Park in Benton Harbor. University of Michigan architecture professor Craig Borum told Benton Harbor City Commissioners Monday a series of public meetings was held this year and a survey went out to residents to find out how they would like to develop the park. A team of planners has its eye on a $1 million grant, and they’ve come up with a draft plan for a series of improvements. Borum outlined phase one.
“The outline of what would be included in that are some restorations to the overall landscape, removing rubbish, upkeep of the landscape, taking out dead and invasive species of trees and plants,” Borum said. “We plan to replace and expand the basketball courts with two full courts with more permanent seating. At the end of that, a permanent stage. Right now, there’s a temporary one that’s built. We’d like to formalize that.”
The first phase would also include a paved walking trail around the park, restored stairs, and an accessible parking lot. Borum said future phases could include a restored baseball field, new seating, fencing, and a playground. He said the planning team is confident about its chances of getting that first grant. Commissioners suggested the plans should include more for children to use the park. However, Commissioner Ron Singleton said learning of any improvements at Hall is “music to my ears.”
