News From Your Parks Department

Published in 2026 Van Buren Today First Quarter


parks and rec old pavilian
Pavilion Rentals

Warm weather will be here before we know it, making now the perfect time to start planning your summer gatherings!

Pavilion rentals for the 2026 season are now open to everyone at Van Buren Park, French Landing and Riggs Park.

Planning a birthday party, family reunion or company picnic? From casual get-togethers to larger celebrations, our parks offer welcoming spaces to help you make the most of the summer season.

Reservations can be made online at vbtmi.gov, or in person at the Van Buren Community Center, located at 46425 Tyler Road. Have questions? Our staff is happy to help – just call (734) 699-8921.

Please note that Quirk Park’s pavilion was removed at the end of 2025 as part of planned capital improvements scheduled for 2026. As a result, pavilion reservations at Quirk Park will not be available during the 2026 summer season. These improvements are an important step toward enhancing the park and ensuring it remains a safe, enjoyable space for the community for years to come.

While pavilion rentals will be unavailable, Quirk Park’s Splash Pad will remain open for visitors. Be advised that the small shelter near the changing rooms and restrooms is not available for rental, and personal tents of any size are not permitted in the park areas due to underground utilities.

We appreciate the community’s understanding and patience during this improvement period, and look forward to welcoming everyone back to an enhanced Quirk Park in the future.


Van Buren Park

The sled hill at Van Buren Park has been growing – literally! In December 2025, work began to expand the north side of the sled hill, creating more room for winter fun and future snowy memories.

Trees and brush along the fence line near the sled hill ramp were carefully removed, additional dirt was brought in and – thanks to the expertise of Davenport Bros. Construction – a brand-new slope has taken shape. This expanded area will offer more space for sledding enthusiasts of all ages.

The new section is designed with multiple slope levels, giving younger children the chance to enjoy shorter, gentler rides, while more adventurous sled riders can work their way up to longer runs. The added space will also help improve access to the hill and reduce congestion during busy winter days.

Work on the sled hill improvements will continue, with the goal of being fully prepared for the 2026–2027 winter season – though some of our most enthusiastic (and brave!) park visitors were already able to test out the new terrain during this past winter.

These sled hill enhancements are just one of the first projects envisioned for the Van Buren Park entrance area. In 2025, PEA Group was engaged to develop a design plan for future improvements to the front of the park. Stay tuned for updates as exciting new projects take shape at Van Buren Township’s largest park.
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