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A variety of developments are planned for Kearsley Park. The following is a description of Phase One improvements, which are presently being designed.
A large playground facility will be developed in the park. The playground will be of barrier-free design with fibar safety surface and concrete edging. The playground will address the need for recreational facilities for neighborhood children and families.
The existing ball field in the northwest portion of the park will be converted into a regulation baseball field. It will be improved by regarding and reseeding the field, adding new fencing, new lighting, an irrigation system and portable bleachers. In addition, the existing parking area south of the ball field will be improved.
The pedestrian bridge crossing Gilkey Creek, between the parking lot and baseball field, will be improved. The bridge will provide safe, convenient access to both sides of the creek for park users. Security lighting will be provided in the parking area and near the bridge.
A pedestrian link will be created to strengthen the connection between Kearsley Park and Dayton Park, the eight-acre park on the west side of I-475. A pathway will proceed under I-475, linking the two parks so they will function as one park rather than two. A small bridge will span a low area between Cesar Chavez Drive and Dayton Park. It should be noted that Dayton Park is located across Boulevard Drive from the Flint River and the Flint River Trail. This pedestrian connection will provide a necessary tie between Kearsley Park and the Flint River Trail. A future Kearsley Park project will be the development of a system of barrier-free nonmotorized trails through the park. This system will serve many functions, it will: link facilities within the park; allow convenient access through the park; connect Mott Community College to the Flint River Trail and other destinations throughout the park.
The pavilion in the park is a unique architectural landmark. The pavilion will be renovated, including painting, building repair and a new restroom added. In addition, a new pavilion will be constructed. The structure will include new restrooms and a storage area.
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In addition to the Phase One projects, future Kearsley Park projects include:
A soccer field will be developed in the park with portable bleachers so winter sledding will not be affected. The existing softball field in the southeast portion of the park will be reoriented and improved. Improvements to this softball field include an expanded bleachers section, concessions area and expanded parking area. It is anticipated this facility will become a major softball center for the region, hosting major tournaments and events.