Smallenburg Park was named after Dick Smallenburg (1893-1960). Smallenburg was born in the Netherlands and immigrated to Holland, MI, where he became a prominent figure, remembered for his dedication to maintaining the city’s public spaces and landscaping. The park was named after him in April 1959, less than a year before his passing. Later, Bouws Pool was funded by Russ Bouws in 1973 and opened to the public in 1976. The skate park was added to Smallenburg Park in 2011 and opened in 2012. 

After some debate, the skate park will remain at Smallenburg Park despite the rec center renovations. Holland residents can also expect Bouws Pool to remain; however, it may receive a facelift. The playground will also be refreshed, but likely reconfigured to make room for the new rec center. 

Earlier this month, Holland City Council members unanimously approved the first phase of the project, around a 1 million dollar endeavor that included clearing the space for the new build. The total budget is expected to be released this November; however, the project is expected to cost around 25 or 26 million. The rec center was largely made possible by the 5 million estate donation by the late James P. Heeringa. The remaining 20 million, according to Mayor Nathan Bocks, will be collected through bonds. 

The rec center will feature four basketball courts that can be converted to serve other sporting purposes: pickleball, volleyball, etc. There will also be breakout rooms for various group activities and gatherings. The plans also include 231 on-site parking spaces. The 83,000-square-foot facility hopes to serve both children and adults.  

The rec center is projected to open in November 2027.

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