The years 2018 and 2019 have been extremely prosperous for the City of Walker, and most indicators indicate a continued positive trajectory. Yet, the recent recession is still fresh in the minds of many City stakeholders, making it all the more necessary to create a master plan that will be resilient to trends and cycles. As a result, the City must be careful to create a plan in a language that all residents can understand and be comfortable with.
While the city is located 25 miles inland from Lake Michigan, the climate in Walker is moderately warm throughout the year. The most comfortable months are August, July, and June, while January is the coldest. The city is located just 25 miles west of Grand Rapids, the primary business and cultural center of western Michigan. The city's hardwood forests once made it a furniture-producing center in the early twentieth century. However, the city has since switched its focus to high-tech office furniture. As a result, Walker is less susceptible to fluctuations in the auto industry than other parts of Michigan.
The population of Walker City is estimated to reach 24,929 in 2020. Its population is 91% white, which is not as diverse as many other cities. Walker is also a family-friendly community, with 57% of residents being under 18 years old. In addition to its size, Walker is also known for its high school enrollment, as 97% of its students are attending an accredited college. However, the city's low diversity may have contributed to the low population density in the area.