Every day, residents of Kentwood and Grand Rapids pass by a breathtaking parcel of rolling fields, wetlands, and trees once known as the Patterson family farm—a place with rich historical roots (even President Gerald R. Ford milked cows there!) and irreplaceable natural beauty. Located near the corner of 28th street and Patterson Road, the 150 acres are home to many of Michigan's native plants and animals.

Now, that land is under threat. The City of Grand Rapids has outlined potential development plans and a real estate developer from Bloomfield Hills has its eye on the parcel. The Patterson family trust still owns the property, and there's still time to advocate for something more meaningful: a public nature preserve or community park that honors both the family’s legacy and the land’s ecological importance.

This land isn’t just empty space—it’s home to deer, birds, pollinators, and wetlands that filter our water. It's a wild, peaceful refuge for humans and animals alike. It’s also one of the last remaining green oases on this stretch of our city where we have seen our green spaces shrinking and concrete developments growing. Animals continue to be displaced in our city and will soon have nowhere left to go. Whether you love animals, the beauty of nature, or honoring the history of the Patterson family, I hope this petition resonates with you.

We are urging the Patterson family, along with community leaders and local conservation groups, to consider preserving this land as a public natural space. Let this be a place where:

• Families walk, play, and connect with nature
• Wetlands are protected, not paved
• The Patterson family is honored through a lasting legacy park
• The land continues to give, long after development profits would be spent

We believe this land deserves more than concrete. Let’s create something future generations will thank us for - the Patterson Family Park.

Please sign this petition to show your support for saving this land from development. Let’s work together to protect this vital green space and encourage the Patterson family and local leaders to consider conservation and community benefit over short-term construction. THANK YOU!