Park Township Airport (HLM)

Park Township Airport (HLM) is a historic aviation site located in Holland, Michigan, situated along the scenic shores of Lake Michigan. Established in 1937, the airport served for over eight decades as a vital general aviation hub for the region, playing a significant role in World War II pilot training and regional airmail delivery. Following a transition in its operational status in 2020, the facility is currently undergoing a transformative redevelopment into a multi-use community park. While the primary paved runway has been removed, the site retains its aviation character through a remaining grass strip (12/30) and ongoing plans for an on-site aviation museum to preserve its rich local heritage. The former passenger facilities at Park Township were characteristic of a boutique regional airfield, designed for maximum accessibility and pilot convenience. The terminal building was a single-story structure that once housed administrative offices, a welcoming pilot lounge, and basic passenger processing areas. The layout was exceptionally compact, allowing for near-instantaneous transitions from the parking area to the aircraft parking ramps. During its peak years of general aviation activity, the airport provided a stress-free alternative to the larger commercial hubs in West Michigan, offering personalized service that was highly valued by local residents and summer vacationers exploring the Holland area. Facilities at the site are now transitioning to serve as a 100-acre community recreational space. The master plan for the former airport includes the development of walking paths, native meadows, and specialized sports facilities such as pickleball courts and a splash pad. While traditional airside services like commercial refueling and maintenance have ceased, the site remains an important piece of Holland's infrastructure, connecting the community to its maritime and aerial history. The professional management of the transition ensures that the site continues to provide value to the region, with the nearby Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) in Grand Rapids now serving as the primary commercial gateway for travelers visiting the world-famous Tulip Time Festival and the historic Holland city center.