Loading...
The URL can be used to link to this page
Your browser does not support the video tag.
Home
My WebLink
About
Resolutions - 2023.01.26 - 37845
AGENDA ITEM: Approval of Five Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan 23-7 ITEM CATEGORY: Other Action COMMITTEE MEETING: Board of Commissioners DATE: Thursday, January 26, 2023 6:21 PM - Click to View Agenda ITEM SUMMARY SHEET DEPARTMENT SPONSORED BY Parks & Recreation Kristen Nelson INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND Oakland County Parks and Recreation (OCPR) develops a Five-Year Recreation Master Plan ("Recreation Plan") every five years. The current plan expired at the end of 2022. The new plan will provide direction and goals and objectives for the Parks and Recreation Commission and staff from 2023 through 2027. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) requires that all entities submitting for grants from the MDNR have a Five Year Recreation Master Plan approved by the DNR on file. However, the Recreation Plan does much more than just making OCPR eligible for grant applications. The Recreation Plan evaluates and reaffirms the mission and vision for the park system, and includes a Strategic Action Plan with goals, objectives and key performance indicators (KPIs) for the park system that guide the efforts of the Commission and staff in making decisions. The plan includes a Park Action Plan for each of the 14 parks operated by OCPR, and new for this plan, staff and the Commission have developed Core Values that will serve as lenses through which all decisions will be evaluated. The Core Values include: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Health and Wellness, Environmental Sustainability and Natural Resource Stewardship, and Fiscal Responsibility and Organizational Excellence. Highlights from the Recreation Plan include: the Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan; Farmer's Market Modernization and Improvement Project (recently funded through the congressional spending bill); designating some of our parks as nature preserves with new standards for management and access; planning for our clubhouses, event centers and waterparks; providing increased access to rivers and lakes throughout the county; and developing an environmental sustainability program within the parks. The plan was posted for 30 days for public comment, with nearly 400 people taking an online survey to provide their feedback and input. Once approved by the Oakland County Board of Commissioners the plan will be submitted to the MDNR by the February 1 deadline for review and approval. COMMITTEE REPORT TO BOARD Resolution #2022-2412 WHEREAS the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission has developed a five-year parks and recreation master plan which describes the physical features, existing recreation facilities, and the desired actions to be taken to improve and maintain recreation facilities during the period between 2023 and 2027; and WHEREAS the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission developed this plan in accordance with the most recently published version of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources “Guidelines for the Development of Community Park, Recreation, Open Space, and Greenway Plans”; and WHEREAS the goals and objectives of the 2023-2027 Five Year Recreation Master Plan were developed in response to needs identified by citizen surveys and input from Oakland County communities, the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission and staff members; and WHEREAS the public was given a well-advertised opportunity and reasonable accommodation to review the draft plan for a period of 30 days; and WHEREAS an advertised public hearing was held at the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on January 4, 2023; and WHEREAS the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission has developed the plan for the benefit of the entire community and will utilize the plan to assist in meeting the recreation needs of the community; and WHEREAS the goals and objectives will assist the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission in determining future planning by providing direction while remaining flexible to allow for adjustments by creative and responsible management. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Oakland County Board of Commissioners approves the Oakland County 2023-2027 Five Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan. POLICY ANALYSIS This is a request to approve the Oakland County Parks and Recreation (OCPR) Five-Year Recreation Master Plan. The Master Plan clearly identifies Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) aligned with OCPR’s core values, and their strategic goals and objectives in the next 5 years. A framework is provided that informs the public of organizational structure, funding sources, budget, partnerships, and more. Additionally, an Action Plan has been created for each County Park and addresses features such as natural resources and park history, as well as priority areas such as accessibility, sustainability, natural resources management, park facilities and features, and more. This plan is submitted pursuant to the requirements set forth by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Compliance with these requirements will allow for more funding opportunities and benefit residents who will experience parks improvements and new recreation opportunities. BUDGET AMENDMENT REQUIRED: No Committee members can contact Michael Andrews, Policy and Fiscal Analysis Supervisor at 248.425.5572 or andrewsmb@oakgov.com, or the department contact persons listed for additional information. CONTACT Chris Ward, Director Parks & Recreation Donna Folland wardcc@oakgov.com ITEM REVIEW TRACKING Kristen Nelson, Created/Initiated - 1/26/2023 David Woodward, Board of Commissioners Approved - 1/26/2023 Hilarie Chambers, Executive's Office Approved - 1/28/2023 Lisa Brown, Clerk/Register of Deeds Final Approval - 2/2/2023 AGENDA DEADLINE: 01/26/2023 7:06 PM COMMITTEE TRACKING 2023-01-17 Legislative Affairs & Government Operations - Recommend to Board 2023-01-26 Full Board - Adopted ATTACHMENTS 1. OCPR.RecPlan2023 2. OCPR.RecPlan2023.AppendixA.CommAssess.ETC 3. OCPR.RecPlan2023.AppendixB.PublicComment 4. OCPR.RecPlan2023.AppendixC.HealthyComm.OHM.ARPA 5. OCPR.RecPlan2023.AppendixD.RedOaksGolfETC.DF 6. Presentation 5-Year Plan January 26, 2023 RESOLUTION #2022-2412 _ 23-7 Sponsored By: Kristen Nelson Parks & Recreation - Approval of Five Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan Chair and Members of the Board: WHEREAS the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission has developed a five-year parks and recreation master plan which describes the physical features, existing recreation facilities, and the desired actions to be taken to improve and maintain recreation facilities during the period between 2023 and 2027; and WHEREAS the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission developed this plan in accordance with the most recently published version of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources “Guidelines for the Development of Community Park, Recreation, Open Space, and Greenway Plans”; and WHEREAS the goals and objectives of the 2023-2027 Five Year Recreation Master Plan were developed in response to needs identified by citizen surveys and input from Oakland County communities, the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission and staff members; and WHEREAS the public was given a well-advertised opportunity and reasonable accommodation to review the draft plan for a period of 30 days; and WHEREAS an advertised public hearing was held at the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on January 4, 2023; and WHEREAS the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission has developed the plan for the benefit of the entire community and will utilize the plan to assist in meeting the recreation needs of the community; and WHEREAS the goals and objectives will assist the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission in determining future planning by providing direction while remaining flexible to allow for adjustments by creative and responsible management. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Oakland County Board of Commissioners approves the Oakland County 2023-2027 Five Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Chair, the following Commissioners are sponsoring the foregoing Resolution: Kristen Nelson. Date: January 26, 2023 David Woodward, Commissioner Date: January 28, 2023 Hilarie Chambers, Deputy County Executive II Date: February 02, 2023 Lisa Brown, County Clerk / Register of Deeds COMMITTEE TRACKING 2023-01-17 Legislative Affairs & Government Operations - Recommend to Board 2023-01-26 Full Board - Adopted VOTE TRACKING Motioned by Commissioner Robert Hoffman seconded by Commissioner Yolanda Smith Charles to adopt the attached Other Action: Approval of Five Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Yes: David Woodward, Michael Spisz, Penny Luebs, Karen Joliat, Christine Long, Robert Hoffman, Philip Weipert, Gwen Markham, Angela Powell, Marcia Gershenson, Janet Jackson, Gary McGillivray, William Miller III, Yolanda Smith Charles, Charles Cavell, Brendan Johnson, Ajay Raman (17) No: None (0) Abstain: None (0) Absent: (0) Passed ATTACHMENTS 1. OCPR.RecPlan2023 2. OCPR.RecPlan2023.AppendixA.CommAssess.ETC 3. OCPR.RecPlan2023.AppendixB.PublicComment 4. OCPR.RecPlan2023.AppendixC.HealthyComm.OHM.ARPA 5. OCPR.RecPlan2023.AppendixD.RedOaksGolfETC.DF 6. Presentation 5-Year Plan STATE OF MICHIGAN) COUNTY OF OAKLAND) I, Lisa Brown, Clerk of the County of Oakland, do hereby certify that the foregoing resolution is a true and accurate copy of a resolution adopted by the Oakland County Board of Commissioners on January 26, 2023, with the original record thereof now remaining in my office. In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the Circuit Court at Pontiac, Michigan on Thursday, January 26, 2023. Lisa Brown, Oakland County Clerk / Register of Deeds 5-Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 Final Draft for Approval – January 3, 2023 Staff contact: Donna Folland, Supervisor of Planning follandd@oakgov.com or 248.736.9087 Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Gary R. McGillivray, Chairman J. David VanderVeen, Vice Chairman Ebony Bagley, Secretary Christine Long, Executive Committee Member Yolanda Charles, Commissioner Amanda Herzog, Commissioner Andrea LaFontaine, Commissioner Jim Nash, Commissioner Nancy L. Quarles, Commissioner E. Lance Stokes, Commissioner Coordinated Management Team Chris Ward, Director – Parks and Recreation Melissa Prowse – Manager – Planning & Development Jim Dunleavy – Manager – Parks and Recreation Operations Brandy Boyd – Chief – Recreation Programs Sarah Cook-Maylen – Chief – Sustainability, Resource Management and Planning Zachary Crane – Supervisor of Parks Engineering & Development Donna Folland – Supervisor of Planning & Resource Development Thomas Hughes – Chief of Operations, South District Stephanie Mackey – Supervisor of Organizational and Employee Development Desiree Stanfield – Chief of Marketing and Communications Aaron Stepp – Chief of Business Operations Staff Thank you to the many staff members across the park system who contributed to the development of this plan. Oakland County Parks and Recreation 2800 Watkins Lake Road Waterford, MI 48328 OaklandCountyParks.com Final Draft for Approval – January 3, 2023 Staff contact: Donna Folland, Supervisor of Planning follandd@oakgov.com or 248.736.9087 Table of Contents Executive Summary ....................................................................................................................................................1 Community Description ..............................................................................................................................................5 Oakland County ......................................................................................................................................................5 The Social Determinants of Health .........................................................................................................................5 Identification of Priority Equity Communities and Households .............................................................................6 Community Data Tables .........................................................................................................................................6 Administrative Structure ......................................................................................................................................... 17 Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission ........................................................................................... 17 Staff Description and Organizational Chart ......................................................................................................... 17 Current Funding Sources ..................................................................................................................................... 19 Budgets ................................................................................................................................................................ 19 Volunteers ........................................................................................................................................................... 21 Partnerships ......................................................................................................................................................... 23 Recreation Inventory ............................................................................................................................................... 25 Park Inventory ..................................................................................................................................................... 25 Recreation Programs and Services ...................................................................................................................... 28 Accessibility Assessment ..................................................................................................................................... 30 Grant-Assisted Parks and Facilities ...................................................................................................................... 34 Service Portfolio .................................................................................................................................................. 34 Priority Investment Ranking (PIR) ....................................................................................................................... 38 Service Strategies ................................................................................................................................................ 41 Inventory of Regional and Community Parks in Oakland County ....................................................................... 42 Natural Resources Inventory ................................................................................................................................... 49 Natural Resources in Oakland County ................................................................................................................. 49 Natural Resources Outreach ............................................................................................................................... 50 Natural Resource Zones ...................................................................................................................................... 50 Planning Process ...................................................................................................................................................... 53 Planning Methods................................................................................................................................................ 53 Facility Planning and Development ..................................................................................................................... 54 Public and Community Engagement ....................................................................................................................... 57 Return to Table of Contents Parks Commission Visioning ................................................................................................................................ 57 Community Needs Assessment ........................................................................................................................... 63 Staff Strategic Action Plan Development ............................................................................................................ 66 Healthy Communities Park Improvements Engagement .................................................................................... 66 Red Oaks Golf Course Survey .............................................................................................................................. 67 30-Day Public Review Period (November 17 to December 20, 2022)................................................................. 68 Public Hearing ...................................................................................................................................................... 76 Strategic Action Plan ............................................................................................................................................... 81 Vision ................................................................................................................................................................... 81 Mission ................................................................................................................................................................ 81 Core Values .......................................................................................................................................................... 81 Strategic Goals and Objectives ............................................................................................................................ 84 Park Action Plans ..................................................................................................................................................... 89 Addison Oaks County Park .................................................................................................................................. 90 Catalpa Oaks County Park ................................................................................................................................. 101 Glen Oaks County Park ...................................................................................................................................... 108 Groveland Oaks County Park ............................................................................................................................. 116 Highland Oaks County Park ............................................................................................................................... 125 Holly Oaks ORV Park .......................................................................................................................................... 132 Independence Oaks County Park ...................................................................................................................... 141 Lyon Oaks County Park ...................................................................................................................................... 152 Orion Oaks County Park .................................................................................................................................... 162 Red Oaks County Park ....................................................................................................................................... 170 Rose Oaks County Park ...................................................................................................................................... 185 Rose Oaks County Park – Water Road ............................................................................................................... 192 Springfield Oaks County Park ............................................................................................................................ 196 Waterford Oaks County Park ............................................................................................................................. 205 Waterford Oaks County Park / Oakland County Market ................................................................................... 214 White Lake Oaks County Park ........................................................................................................................... 221 Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan ................................................................. 229 Improvements to Existing Oakland County Parks ............................................................................................. 231 Park Improvement Capital Grants: Hazel Park and Royal Oak Township ......................................................... 232 Local Park Partnership: Beech Woods / Southfield ........................................................................................... 234 Return to Table of Contents Local Park Partnership: Hawthorne Park / Pontiac ........................................................................................... 237 Local Park Partnership: David H. Shepherd Park / Oak Park ............................................................................. 240 Property Acquisition: Troy Schools Property ........................................................................................................ 243 References ............................................................................................................................................................. 247 End Notes .............................................................................................................................................................. 249 APPENDICES Appendix A. 2022 Oakland County Community Needs Assessment Appendix B. 2022 Recreation Plan 30-Day Public Comment Period Appendix C. 2022 Healthy Communities Research Report Appendix D. 2022 Red Oaks Golf Survey All appendices are available at OaklandCountyParks.com/RecPlan Return to Table of Contents This page left intentionally blank Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 1 Executive Summary The Oakland County Parks and Recreation (OCPR) 5-Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 ("Recreation Plan") will guide staff and the Parks Commission over the next five years to provide high-quality recreational opportunities to the residents of Oakland County. The Recreation Plan updates and replaces the Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2018-2022, which expires on December 31, 2022. Preparation of this plan follows the Guidelines for the Development of Community Park, Recreation, Open Space, and Greenway Plans (MDNR 4/26/2021) provided by Grants Division of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR). Approval of this Recreation Plan by the MDNR qualifies Oakland County Parks and Recreation to apply for grants administered by the State of Michigan. The planning team is grateful to the Parks Commission, OCPR staff, and our Oakland County and local community partners for your contributions into this draft Recreation Plan. We are looking forward to your continued engagement and to input from Oakland County residents as we prepare for the next five years of Oakland County Parks and Recreation. The Recreation Plan updates OCPR's strategic plan Vision and Mission, as well as adding four Core Values that will help us build an equitable, sustainable, diverse, inclusive, and resilient future for Oakland County Parks. The opportunity is now to build this future for our organization and its parklands, and for our communities. Vision Everyone in Oakland County has access to a park, public space, or recreational opportunity to relax, be active, socialize and connect with nature. Mission We create and operate accessible, welcoming, and sustainable parks and public spaces, provide recreational and educational programs and opportunities, preserve open space, and steward the environment to help all people be healthier and build resilient, connected communities in Oakland County. Core Values Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion - Ground all actions and decisions in equity and justice and provide parks and recreation services that feel safe and welcoming to everyone. Health and Wellness - Increase access to the spaces and experiences that promote physical, mental, and social health for all. Environmental Sustainability and Natural Resources Stewardship - Plan, build, and operate our parks and services in a sustainable manner while collaborating with local communities. Care for the natural environment, preserve land and open space for future generations, meet current recreation needs without compromising the future and build community resilience and adaptation to climate change. Fiscal Responsibility and Organizational Excellence - Implement our mission with a robust, innovative, and diverse parks and recreation organization and ground our decisions in sound fiscal policy. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 2 Recreation Plan 2023-2027 Highlights HEALTHY COMMUNITIES PARK AND OUTDOOR RECREATION INVESTMENT PLAN: In October 2022, the Oakland County Board of Commissioners approved a proposal from the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission for $15M in Oakland County American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds to invest in park and outdoor recreational spaces in areas that have been disproportionately impacted by COVID. Identified projects include improvements to Oakland County Parks – see Catalpa Oaks, Lyon Oaks, Red Oaks, and Waterford Oaks; long-term local partnerships that enhance parks and expand the OCPR park system – see Beech Woods Park in Southfield, Hawthorne Park in Pontiac, and Shepherd Park in Oak Park; and park improvement capital grants and partnerships with local communities – see Hazel Park and Royal Oak Township. OAKLAND COUNTY FARMER’S MARKET MODERNIZATION AND IMPROVEMENT PROJECT: OCPR has submitted a congressional appropriation request to fund major improvements to the market that will increase accessibility at the market for 200,000+ annual visitors, create new program space for educational activities (ours and many partners), develop a commercial kitchen for popular cooking demonstrations and possible incubator use, build accessible/family restrooms, and improve the overall site with storm water management and demonstration gardens. We will increase and promote access to healthy, nutritious food, while better supporting our 100+Michigan farmers. See Oakland County Farmer’s Market. NATURE PRESERVES: Natural resources preservation and management has long been a priority for the Parks Commission. With the Recreation Plan, we will designate our most precious natural parks as Nature Preserves and develop standards and protocols for management and access. This includes the planned acquisition of the 70-acre Turtle Woods property in Troy. See Highland Oaks, Rose Oaks, Rose Oaks/Water Road, and Troy Properties. Photos Left: Lyon Oaks (top), Independence Oaks (middle), Oakland County Farmers Market (bottom) Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 3 Recreation Plan 2023-2027 Highlights CLUBHOUSES AND CONFERENCE CENTERS: Oakland County Parks has several buildings that are costly to maintain and have limited or no usage by the public. We will review these facilities in detail and examine alternatives to determine how to eliminate subsidy of private events and increase the public’s access, use, and awareness of these assets. Assets to be reviewed include the historic Buhl Estate Conference Center at Addison Oaks; the historic Clubhouse at Glen Oaks, the Clubhouse at Lyon Oaks; Davis House, Activity Center, and Golf Clubhouse at Springfield Oaks; the Activity Center at Waterford Oaks; and the Clubhouse at White Lake Oaks. WATERPARKS: Red Oaks and Waterford Oaks waterparks are well-loved destinations that need significant investment, or a more modest investment coupled with an adjustment in focus and operation. We will review detailed facility condition assessments for both waterparks and examine alternatives to determine how to meet public need and be fiscally sustainable. See also Red Oaks and Waterford Oaks waterparks. WATER ACCESS: Oakland County residents love their rivers and lakes. We want to continue to improve and expand access by improving beaches, shorelines, docks, and fishing piers, as well as offering kayak and canoe rentals and programs that get people out on the water. We will also work with our local partners to identify new opportunities for kayak and canoe access. See water access at Addison Oaks, Groveland Oaks, Independence Oaks, Orion Oaks, White Lake Oaks, Beech Woods in Southfield, and Hawthorne Park in Pontiac. ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY: In 2022 OCPR created a Chief of Environmental Sustainability and Natural Resources position within the park system, as well as a Sustainability Committee made up of staff and Commissioners guide sustainability practices and investments within the park system. Each of the Park Action Plans has a section on sustainability, and all projects have a sustainability review before making recommendations for scopes or bidding contracts. Photos Right: Red Oaks (top), Orion Oaks (middle), Catalpa Oaks (bottom) Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 4 Figure A: OCPR parks and projects Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 5 Community Description Oakland County Oakland County resides on the ancestral, traditional, and contemporary lands of the Anishinaabe, known as the Three Fires Confederacy, comprised of the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi. Oakland County is in southeast Michigan, adjacent to Detroit, and covers 910 square miles. It is home to the headwaters of five major rivers, the Clinton, Flint, Huron, Rouge, and Shiawassee Rivers, all of which are important to the long-term health of the Great Lakes Ecosystem. Many diverse ecosystems are in the county due to the area’s complex topography and geological history and are an important element in the character of the county. See Natural Resources Inventory chapter for more information. Within Oakland County, there are 30 cities, 21 townships, and 11 incorporated villages, in urban, suburban, and rural landscapes. The Social Determinants of Health Social determinants of health (SDOH) are defined by the Centers for Disease Control as the “conditions in the places where people live, learn, work, and play that affect a wide range of health risks and outcomes”.1 Two of the five areas of SDOH outlined by the CDC are especially relevant to parks and recreation agencies: social and community context, and neighborhood and built environment. SDOH disparity contributes to wide health inequities and lowers life expectancy relative to people who have access to conditions that support positive health outcomes. Parks and recreational spaces are core infrastructure that support the quality of life, economic prosperity, environment, and physical and mental health of our residents. Unfortunately, gaps exist in access to these benefits and the gaps disproportionately impact marginalized or underserved groups, including communities of color, people with physical or cognitive disabilities, low-income people, immigrants, and people in LGBTQ+ communities. According to the CDC, race and ethnicity are risk markers for underlying conditions that affect health. Underlying conditions include socioeconomic status, access to health care, and exposure to the COVID-19 virus related to occupation. Native American, Black, and Hispanic populations are at the greatest risk compared to White, Non- Hispanic persons, with Asian populations at a somewhat lower risk.2 The Black or African American population was 13% of Oakland County in 2022. Four communities have a majority population of Black persons – Lathrup Village, Oak Park, and Royal Oak Township. Evidence of historic underinvestment in parts of Oakland County can be seen in the 1930s Home Owners’ Loan Corporation redlining maps that identified neighborhoods with minority occupants as dangerous or declining and therefore high-risk for mortgage lenders.3 Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 6 The 2021 population of Hispanic persons in Oakland County was 5% of the county population. Higher percentages of Hispanic population are in Pontiac, Keego Harbor, Auburn Hills, Waterford Township, and Wixom. Identification of Priority Equity Communities and Households As a preliminary step in identifying communities and census tracts that are a priority for providing equitable park and recreation services, OCPR staff used the guidelines provided by the U.S. Department of Treasury in its Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) Final Rule 4. This method uses income levels to identify priority communities and is only a first step. We intend to collaborate with partners, particularly the Oakland County Health Division, to identify a more robust methodology that considers minority and other populations (such as LGBTQ+) where disparities may exist, and to identify households who may be underserved by parks. The U.S. Department of Treasury’s acknowledges that pre-existing disparities magnified the impact of the COVID-19 public health emergency on certain households and communities and provides methodology for identifying those households and communities. The Final Rule identifies Qualified Census Tracts (QCTs) as the primary indicator of areas disproportionately impacted by COVID-19.5 These census tracts are identified by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) as having lower income and a higher rate of poverty. The Final Rule further indicates that parks and other services that reach a general geographic area can measure the median income of the area being served (Area Median Income or AMI), instead of identifying individual households. The following criteria identifies low- and moderate-income areas using the Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG)6. Use household size of 3 for services to a general geographic area 2022 FPG for household size of 3: $23,030 Low income: at or below 185% of FPG = $42,606 Moderate income: at or below 300% FPG = $69,090 Community Data Tables Data sources are the Southeast Michigan Council of Government’s (SEMCOG) data portal 7 and the 2022 American Community Survey (ACS) data accessed via ESRI Business Analyst 8. Table 1 identifies the cities, villages, and townships in Oakland County and provides data on population trends and population density (populations per square mile) (SEMCOG Community Profiles). Table 2 explores population characteristics in each community – Median Household Income and percent population race and ethnicity. Table 3 identifies the census tracts in Oakland County that are QCTs or have low- or moderate-income and provides population, median household income, percent population race and ethnicity. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 7 Figure B: Oakland County communities and recreation lands Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 8 Table 1: Oakland County communities and population density (Source: SEMCOG Community Profiles 1) Community Name Community Type Square Miles 2020 Census Population Percent Change from 2010 2020 Population per Square Mile Oakland County County 907 1,274,395 6.0% 1,405 Addison Township Township 35.6 5,879 -1.2% 165 Auburn Hills City 16.7 24,360 13.8% 1,459 Berkley City 2.6 15,194 1.5% 5,844 Beverly Hills Village 4 10,584 3.1% 2,646 Bingham Farms Village 1.2 1,124 1.2% 937 Birmingham City 4.8 21,813 8.5% 4,544 Bloomfield Hills City 5 4,460 15.3% 892 Bloomfield Township Township 26.1 44,253 7.8% 1,696 Brandon Township Township 34.9 14,008 2.0% 401 Clawson City 2.2 11,389 -3.7% 5,177 Commerce Township Township 28.2 38,514 7.4% 1,366 Farmington City 2.7 11,597 11.8% 4,295 Farmington Hills City 33.3 83,986 5.3% 2,522 Fenton 2 City Ferndale City 3.9 19,190 -3.6% 4,921 Franklin Village 2.7 3,139 -0.3% 1,163 Groveland Township Township 36.1 5,912 8.0% 164 Hazel Park City 2.8 14,983 -8.8% 5,351 Highland Township Township 36.1 19,172 -0.2% 531 Holly Village 3 5,997 -1.5% 1,999 Holly Township Township 33.4 6,009 13.9% 180 Huntington Woods City 1.5 6,388 2.4% 4,259 Independence Twp Township 36.3 36,686 5.8% 1,011 Keego Harbor City 0.5 2,764 -6.9% 5,528 Lake Angelus City 1.6 287 -1.0% 179 Lake Orion Village 1.3 2,876 -3.3% 2,212 Lathrup Village City 1.5 4,088 0.3% 2,725 Leonard Village 1 377 -6.5% 377 Lyon Township Township 31.7 23,271 60.0% 734 Madison Heights City 7.1 28,468 -4.1% 4,010 Milford Village 2.5 6,520 5.6% 2,608 Milford Township Township 32.6 10,570 10.6% 324 Northville (Oakland)3 City 1 3,326 2.9% 3,326 1 https://semcog.org/data-and-maps/community-profiles/custom 2 Fenton is in Genesee County with a very small portion extending into Oakland County 3 Northville is in Wayne and Oakland counties, data for the Oakland County portion is provided here Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 9 Community Name Community Type Square Miles 2020 Census Population Percent Change from 2010 2020 Population per Square Mile Novi City 31.2 66,243 20.0% 2,123 Oak Park City 5 29,560 0.8% 5,912 Oakland Township Township 36.7 20,067 19.6% 547 Orchard Lake Village Township 4.1 2,238 -5.8% 546 Orion Township Township 34.6 35,330 9.0% 1,021 Ortonville Village 1 1,376 -4.6% 1,376 Oxford Village 1.5 3,492 1.6% 2,328 Oxford Township Twp 33.9 18,927 10.7% 558 Pleasant Ridge City 0.6 2,627 4.0% 4,378 Pontiac City 20.1 61,606 3.5% 3,065 Rochester City 3.8 13,035 2.5% 3,430 Rochester Hills City 32.9 76,300 7.5% 2,319 Rose Township Township 36.1 6,188 -1.0% 171 Royal Oak City 11.8 58,211 1.7% 4,933 Royal Oak Township Twp 0.7 2,374 -1.9% 3,391 South Lyon City 3.7 11,746 3.7% 3,175 Southfield City 26.3 76,618 6.8% 2,913 Southfield Township 4 Township Springfield Township Township 36.7 14,703 5.5% 401 Sylvan Lake City 0.8 1,723 0.2% 2,154 Troy City 33.6 87,294 7.8% 2,598 Village of Clarkston City 0.5 928 5.2% 1,856 Walled Lake City 2.4 7,250 3.6% 3,021 Waterford Township Township 35.3 70,565 -1.6% 1,999 West Bloomfield Twp Township 31.3 65,888 1.9% 2,105 White Lake Township Township 37.1 30,950 3.1% 834 Wixom City 9.5 17,193 27.4% 1,810 Wolverine Lake Village 1.7 4,544 5.4% 2,673 4 Southfield Township comprises the villages of Beverly Hills, Bingham Farms, and Franklin. The unincorporated part of the township not included in the villages occupies 0.17 square miles with a population of approximately 20. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 10 Table 2: Oakland County communities and population characteristics (Source: ESRI Business Analyst) 2022 Median Household Income Percent of 2022 Population Community Name Community Type 2022 Population 2022 Diversity Index 5 White Black / African American Native American Asian Other Race Two or More Races Hispanic Oakland County County 1,284,183 $88,531 53.3 70% 13% 0.3% 9% 2% 6% 5% Addison Township 6 Township 6,293 $106,068 20.9 91% 1% 0% 1% 1% 5% 3% Auburn Hills City 24,744 $73,633 65.6 59% 16% 0.4% 14% 3% 7% 7% Berkley City 15,135 $94,512 25.6 89% 2% 0.2% 2% 1% 7% 3% Beverly Hills Village 10,505 $140,112 34.1 83% 7% 0% 3% 1% 6% 3% Bingham Farms Village 1,130 $157,170 41.8 77% 11% 0% 5% 1% 6% 3% Birmingham City 21,760 $145,314 30.8 86% 3% 0.2% 4% 1% 6% 3% Bloomfield Hills City 44,000 $147,675 41.2 78% 6% 0.2% 10% 1% 5% 3% Bloomfield Township Township 4,419 $200,001 31.8 84% 3% 0.1% 8% 1% 3% 2% Brandon Township 7 Township 15,577 $94,248 25.9 89% 1% 0.3% 1% 1% 7% 4% Clawson City 11,636 $79,833 25.9 89% 2% 0.2% 2% 1% 6% 3% Commerce Township 8 Township 43,424 $105,335 31.5 86% 2% 0.3% 4% 1% 7% 4% Farmington City 11,670 $83,761 60.1 60% 10% 0.3% 24% 1% 6% 3% Farmington Hills City 84,411 $93,177 61.4 59% 18% 0.2% 16% 1% 6% 3% Ferndale City 19,656 $77,357 36.7 83% 6% 0.3% 2% 1% 7% 4% Franklin Village 3,139 $184,265 39.1 80% 6% 0% 7% 1% 6% 3% Groveland Township Township 5,878 $102,133 23.1 91% 1% 0.5% 1% 1% 6% 4% Hazel Park City 15,031 $45,419 46.1 75% 13% 0.5% 2% 1% 9% 4% Highland Township Township 18,850 $95,039 18.4 93% 0% 0.3% 1% 1% 5% 3% Holly Township 9 Township 12,390 $76,096 25.9 89% 2% 0.3% 1% 1% 7% 4% 5 The Diversity Index from Esri represents the likelihood that two persons, chosen at random from the same area, belong to different races or ethnic groups. Ethnic diversity, as well as racial diversity, is included in Esri's definition of the Diversity Index. 6 Data for Addison Township includes the Village of Leonard 7 Data for Brandon Township includes the Village of Ortonville 8 Data for Commerce Township includes the Village of Wolverine Lake 9 Data for Holly Township includes the Village of Holly Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 11 2022 Median Household Income Percent of 2022 Population Community Name Community Type 2022 Population 2022 Diversity Index 5 White Black / African American Native American Asian Other Race Two or More Races Hispanic Huntington Woods City 6,363 $143,687 18.0 93% 1% 0.1% 1% 1% 5% 2% Independence Twp Township 36,366 $103,397 30.1 88% 2% 0.3% 2% 2% 7% 5% Keego Harbor City 2,799 $51,157 45.8 79% 6% 0.5% 3% 3% 9% 8% Lake Angelus City 293 $92,951 33.1 86% 3% 0.3% 2% 2% 6% 6% Lathrup Village City 4,158 $107,233 53.3 30% 63% 0.2% 1% 1% 5% 2% Lyon Township Township 23,804 $125,615 36.1 83% 2% 0.2% 8% 1% 7% 4% Madison Heights City 28,325 $57,975 43.7 77% 8% 0.3% 7% 1% 7% 4% Milford Township 10 Township 17,171 $105,099 24.0 90% 1% 0.3% 1% 1% 6% 3% Northville (Oakland)11 City 3,323 $129,314 31.1 86% 1% 0.2% 7% 1% 6% 4% Novi City 68,104 $105,243 61.9 57% 8% 0.2% 27% 1% 6% 4% Oak Park City 29,888 $57,389 57.4 37% 56% 0.2% 2% 1% 5% 2% Oakland Township Township 20,146 $160,146 37.1 82% 2% 0.2% 8% 1% 7% 4% Orchard Lake Village Township 2,290 $196,397 38.0 80% 6% 0.1% 8% 1% 6% 2% Orion Township 12 Township 38,807 $109,132 37.9 83% 3% 0.2% 4% 2% 8% 6% Oxford Township 13 Twp 22,522 $96,218 27.6 89% 1% 0.2% 2% 1% 7% 4% Pleasant Ridge City 2,622 $132,365 23.8 90% 2% 0.0% 1% 1% 7% 3% Pontiac City 62,384 $38,856 78.2 27% 48% 0.8% 2% 11% 10% 22% Rochester City 12,973 $101,136 39.1 81% 3% 0.2% 8% 1% 7% 5% Rochester Hills City 77,242 $103,316 49.9 72% 4% 0.3% 15% 2% 7% 5% Rose Township Township 6,213 $84,073 23.6 90% 1% 0.2% 1% 1% 8% 3% Royal Oak City 59,117 $89,904 31.6 85% 4% 0.2% 3% 1% 6% 4% Royal Oak Township Twp 2,399 $33,445 21.7 5% 90% 0.0% 0% 1% 3% 2% South Lyon City 12,209 $83,744 25.0 89% 1% 0.2% 3% 1% 6% 3% 10 Data for Milford Township includes the Village of Milford 11 Northville is in Wayne and Oakland counties, data for the Oakland County portion is provided here 12 Data for Orion Township includes the Village of Lake Orion 13 Data for Oxford Township includes the Village of Oxford Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 12 2022 Median Household Income Percent of 2022 Population Community Name Community Type 2022 Population 2022 Diversity Index 5 White Black / African American Native American Asian Other Race Two or More Races Hispanic Southfield City 76,990 $61,862 48.0 21% 70% 0.2% 2% 1% 4% 2% Southfield Township 14 Township 35.8 4% Springfield Township Township 14,766 $104,652 25.3 90% 1% 0.3% 1% 1% 6% 4% Sylvan Lake City 1,787 $94,390 25.6 89% 4% 0.4% 1% 0% 6% 3% Troy City 87,918 $108,243 57.0 62% 4% 0.2% 28% 1% 5% 3% Village of Clarkston City 995 $92,729 21.4 91% 1% 0.3% 1% 1% 6% 3% Walled Lake City 7,318 $60,850 40.8 80% 7% 0.3% 4% 2% 7% 5% Waterford Township Township 70,557 $73,473 42.4 82% 6% 0.4% 2% 3% 8% 8% West Bloomfield Twp Township 65,810 $116,571 47.7 72% 13% 0.1% 9% 1% 5% 2% White Lake Township Township 31,151 $94,555 25.4 89% 2% 0.3% 1% 1% 7% 4% Wixom City 17,497 $55,302 54.0 69% 15% 0.3% 8% 2% 6% 5% 14 Southfield Township comprises three villages: Beverly Hills, Bingham Farms, and Franklin – all are listed separately in this chart. There is also a small unincorporated part that is not part of a village that occupies 0.17 acres with a population of approximately 20 persons. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 13 Table 3: Oakland County census tracts identified as 2023 QCTs by HUD, are low-income, or are moderate-income and demographic data Percent of 2022 Population CVT Census Tract 2022 AMI Low or Moderate Income 2023 QCT (HUD) White Black / African American Native American Asian Other Race Two or More Races Hispanic Auburn Hills 261251401.01 $66,682 Moderate 70% 10% 0.3% 8% 3% 8% 8% Auburn Hills 261251403.01 $58,738 Moderate 51% 19% 1% 19% 4% 7% 9% Auburn Hills 261251405.00 $65,908 Moderate 63% 15% 0.4% 7% 4% 11% 11% Auburn Hills 261259815.00 $68,712 Moderate 65% 15% 0.0% 8% 1% 11% 17% Farmington Hills 261251666.00 $58,788 Moderate 53% 24% 0.1% 16% 1% 5% 3% Farmington Hills 261251673.00 $56,410 Moderate 66% 18% 0.3% 5% 2% 10% 7% Farmington Hills 261251674.00 $55,662 Moderate 61% 23% 0.3% 5% 3% 8% 6% Farmington Hills 261251689.02 $56,832 Moderate 32% 24% 0.1% 39% 2% 4% 3% Hazel Park 261251750.00 $50,990 Moderate 80% 10% 0.4% 2% 1% 8% 4% Hazel Park 261251751.00 $38,482 Low QCT 76% 13% 0.6% 1% 1% 9% 4% Hazel Park 261251752.00 $46,793 Moderate QCT 75% 14% 0.3% 2% 2% 8% 5% Hazel Park 261251753.00 $48,395 Moderate 72% 14% 0.6% 2% 2% 11% 5% Holly Village 261251245.00 $60,308 Moderate 90% 1% 0.3% 0% 1% 7% 4% Keego Harbor 261251542.00 $51,157 Moderate 79% 6% 0.5% 3% 3% 9% 8% Madison Heights 261251810.00 $36,247 Low 50% 22% 0.3% 20% 3% 5% 5% Madison Heights 261251813.00 $62,586 Moderate 80% 7% 0.2% 5% 1% 7% 4% Madison Heights 261251814.00 $62,095 Moderate 82% 5% 0.4% 4% 1% 8% 4% Madison Heights 261251815.00 $51,254 Moderate 82% 7% 0.5% 2% 2% 7% 5% Madison Heights 261251816.00 $55,534 Moderate 78% 8% 0.5% 4% 1% 8% 4% Novi 261251368.00 $65,935 Moderate 71% 13% 0.1% 9% 2% 5% 5% Oak Park 261251710.00 $60,446 Moderate 75% 16% 0.3% 2% 2% 5% 2% Oak Park 261251713.00 $54,986 Moderate 18% 75% 0.2% 1% 1% 5% 2% Oak Park 261251714.00 $64,860 Moderate 29% 65% 0.2% 1% 1% 4% 2% Oak Park 261251715.00 $59,997 Moderate 5% 90% 0.1% 0% 0% 3% 1% Oak Park 261251716.00 $38,820 Low QCT 40% 52% 0.3% 1% 1% 6% 2% Oak Park 261251724.00 $29,319 Low QCT 26% 63% 0.1% 3% 2% 5% 4% Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 14 Percent of 2022 Population CVT Census Tract 2022 AMI Low or Moderate Income 2023 QCT (HUD) White Black / African American Native American Asian Other Race Two or More Races Hispanic Pontiac 261251409.00 $42,667 Moderate QCT 34% 41% 0.4% 2% 12% 10% 24% Pontiac 261251410.01 $41,408 Low QCT 37% 29% 1% 4% 18% 10% 31% Pontiac 261251410.02 $52,259 Moderate 26% 52% 1% 3% 9% 9% 15% Pontiac 261251411.00 $48,473 Moderate 43% 33% 0.8% 3% 8% 12% 20% Pontiac 261251412.00 $21,594 Low QCT 26% 43% 1.2% 6% 10% 13% 23% Pontiac 261251413.00 $45,590 Moderate QCT 45% 17% 2.0% 3% 19% 15% 40% Pontiac 261251414.00 $48,739 Moderate 30% 33% 1.2% 3% 18% 13% 35% Pontiac 261251415.00 $41,169 Low QCT 17% 63% 0.4% 1% 10% 9% 20% Pontiac 261251416.00 $40,235 Low QCT 26% 44% 0.4% 4% 14% 12% 27% Pontiac 261251417.00 $31,788 Low QCT 29% 33% 1.1% 2% 19% 16% 38% Pontiac 261251420.00 $34,039 Low QCT 32% 46% 0.4% 1% 11% 10% 20% Pontiac 261251421.00 $32,431 Low QCT 26% 45% 0.5% 2% 13% 13% 25% Pontiac 261251422.00 $21,548 Low QCT 13% 71% 0.4% 0% 9% 7% 14% Pontiac 261251423.00 $18,795 Low QCT 15% 74% 0.6% 1% 4% 6% 10% Pontiac 261251424.00 $32,241 Low QCT 11% 75% 0.6% 0% 7% 6% 13% Pontiac 261251425.00 $53,010 Moderate 20% 67% 0.1% 2% 4% 7% 9% Pontiac 261251426.00 $56,593 Moderate 47% 32% 1.1% 2% 6% 11% 13% Pontiac 261251427.00 $39,077 Low QCT 8% 81% 0.3% 1% 4% 5% 8% Rochester 261251911.00 $66,705 Moderate 80% 5% 0.2% 5% 2% 7% 6% Rochester Hills 261251933.00 $66,428 Moderate 65% 8% 0.4% 18% 2% 6% 6% Rochester Hills 261251935.00 $63,384 Moderate 67% 4% 0.9% 9% 5% 13% 11% Rochester Hills 261251945.00 $41,006 Low 87% 4% 0.1% 3% 1% 5% 4% Rochester Hills 261259813.00 $60,207 Moderate 73% 19% 0.2% 2% 1% 4% 4% Royal Oak (City) 261251830.00 $66,004 Moderate 79% 7% 0.3% 6% 2% 6% 5% Royal Oak Twp 261251725.00 $33,445 Low QCT 5% 90% 0.0% 0% 1% 3% 2% Southfield 261251603.00 $33,769 Low QCT 20% 67% 0.2% 6% 2% 5% 4% Southfield 261251604.00 $48,129 Moderate 11% 80% 0.1% 4% 1% 4% 2% Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 15 Percent of 2022 Population CVT Census Tract 2022 AMI Low or Moderate Income 2023 QCT (HUD) White Black / African American Native American Asian Other Race Two or More Races Hispanic Southfield 261251605.00 $67,255 Moderate 37% 52% 0.4% 4% 1% 6% 3% Southfield 261251609.00 $60,118 Moderate 18% 70% 0.2% 6% 2% 4% 2% Southfield 261251610.00 $65,695 Moderate 13% 78% 0.8% 3% 2% 4% 1% Southfield 261251611.00 $47,771 Moderate 19% 76% 0.3% 1% 1% 3% 2% Southfield 261251613.00 $63,690 Moderate 32% 60% 0.1% 2% 1% 5% 3% Southfield 261251614.00 $55,808 Moderate 46% 49% 0.1% 1% 2% 3% 1% Southfield 261251616.00 $56,467 Moderate 20% 68% 0.1% 4% 4% 4% 5% Southfield 261251618.00 $52,844 Moderate 13% 80% 0.2% 1% 1% 4% 1% Southfield 261251621.00 $44,740 Moderate 2% 93% 0.2% 1% 0% 3% 1% Southfield 261251622.00 $47,988 Moderate 4% 89% 0.0% 1% 2% 3% 2% Southfield 261251624.00 $67,956 Moderate 18% 73% 0.1% 1% 1% 6% 3% Southfield 261251625.00 $54,865 Moderate 26% 64% 0.5% 1% 1% 6% 3% Troy 261251974.00 $59,192 Moderate 78% 5% 0.0% 7% 3% 7% 6% Troy 261251981.00 $32,102 Low QCT 64% 9% 0.2% 20% 2% 6% 5% Walled Lake 261251347.00 $58,006 Moderate 78% 8% 0.3% 3% 2% 8% 6% Walled Lake 261251349.00 $64,827 Moderate 81% 6% 0.3% 5% 1% 6% 4% Walled Lake 261251361.02 $59,296 Moderate 59% 19% 0.2% 13% 2% 7% 6% Waterford 261251447.01 $48,731 Moderate 68% 12% 0.5% 2% 9% 10% 16% Waterford 261251448.00 $59,766 Moderate 79% 6% 0.5% 2% 3% 10% 11% Waterford 261251449.00 $45,445 Moderate 75% 11% 0.2% 3% 4% 7% 8% Waterford 261251455.02 $64,851 Moderate 82% 6% 0.7% 3% 2% 8% 7% Waterford 261251457.00 $65,220 Moderate 80% 4% 0.4% 2% 4% 9% 11% Waterford 261251459.00 $45,631 Moderate QCT 63% 20% 0.5% 1% 5% 10% 13% Wixom 261251331.01 $36,656 Low 47% 34% 0% 9% 4% 6% 6% Wixom 261251331.02 $42,133 Low 59% 27% 0.3% 6% 2% 6% 7% Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 16 This page left intentionally blank Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 17 Administrative Structure Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission The Parks Commission was established in 1966 under Public Act 261 of 1965. The 10-member Parks Commission board is made up of six elected officials and four members of the public: Oakland County Executive or designee Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner or designee One member of the Road Commission for Oakland County Three members of the Oakland County Board of Commissioners Four members of the public appointed by the Oakland County Board of Commissioners The Parks Commission is responsible for planning, developing, and operating parks and recreation facilities, making rules and regulations of the parks system, establishing a fee structure and approving budget expenditures. The Parks Commission is also responsible for recommending the acquisition of new parkland, the acceptance of grant funding, and the entrance into use agreements, all of which require the approval of the Oakland County Board of Commissioners. Staff Description and Organizational Chart Oakland County Parks is led by the Director of Parks and Recreation, who reports directly to the Parks Commission. Two managers oversee various aspects of the organization and report directly to the Director. An additional position reporting to the Director, Coordinator of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) and Community Engagement, has been created and will be filled this year. See Figure C: OCPR organizational chart. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 18 Figure C: OCPR organizational chart DIRECTOR Parks and Recreation COORDINATOR DEI & Community Engagement MANAGER Operations and Recreation Programs Recreation Programs Interpretive Services Outreach & Events Archery & Events Adaptive & Active Adults Mobile Recreation Operations: Urban strategy, waterparks, recreation courts and fields Catalpa Oaks Glen Oaks Red Oaks Waterford Oaks New parks in southeast county Operations: Golf, banquet centers, campgrounds, ORV park, dog parks Addison Oaks Groveland Oaks Highland Oaks Holly Oaks Independence Oaks Lyon Oaks Orion Oaks Rose Oaks Springfield Oaks White Lake Oaks Park Operations Maintenance CHIEF Marketing & Communications MANAGER Planning & Development Sustainability, Resource Management & Planning Planning & Resource Development Natural Resources Management Business Operations Parks & Recreation Business Systems Organizational & Employee Development Liaison with Fiscal Services & Procurement Engineering & Development Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 19 Current Funding Sources Oakland County Parks and Recreation (OCPR) is funded by a quarter-mill tax on property located in Oakland County, as well as through fees, grants, donations, and other income sources. OCPR’s parks and recreation services are provided within the geographic boundaries of Oakland County and are open to county residents and all visitors to the county. The projected revenue in fiscal year 2023 is $36,466,257. The chart below shows allocation among revenue categories. Figure D: FY2023 Revenue allocation chart Source: (OCPR September 7 2022) Budgets The Parks and Recreation budget is developed through a multi-faceted review of park operations and financial activity to produce a triennial budget. The process starts with staff reviewing financial and activity reports and making assumptions based on trends. Use of this on-going process where staff is asked to review current operations to ensure budget accuracy and provide programmatic changes to their budget streamlines the budget process. On September 7, 2022, the Parks Commission approved the FY2023-2025 Operating Budget and the FY2023 Capital Improvement Program, Maintenance Management Plan, and Capital Equipment Plan. The operating expense budget in fiscal year 2023 is $36,466,257. Figure E shows the allocation of among expense categories. Budget Centers A budget center is defined as a segment of a business for which revenues and expenses are separately calculated. Within Oakland County Parks, each budget center is a distinctly identifiable division of the agency whose managers are responsible for all its associated revenues and expenses and for ensuring adherence to its budgets. Table 4 shows the budget centers and the 3-year operating budget for each. 65.60% 32.78% 0.82%0.28% 0.52%FY2023 Revenue Property taxes from the .35 Millage Charges for Services Other Intergovernmental Revenue Contributions Income on Investments & Other Revenue Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 20 Figure E: FY2023 Operating Expense allocation chart Source: (OCPR September 7 2022) Table 4: Department and Program Chart and approved three-year Operating Budget forecast Abbrev. Budget Center Descriptions Program Program Description FY2023 FY2024 FY2025 ADD PR Addison Oaks 160710 Campground $1,776,634 $1,802,834 $1,820,534 ADD PR Addison Oaks 160720 Conference Center $225,073 $226,173 $226,973 CAT PR Catalpa Oaks 160700 General Operations $253,726 $256,126 $257,726 FM PR Facilities Maintenance 160700 General Operations $2,397,776 $2,413,376 $2,437,776 GLG PR Glen Oaks 160010 Golf $1,115,867 $1,135,967 $1,149,867 GLG PR Glen Oaks 160720 Conference Center $204,100 $205,200 $205,900 GRV PR Groveland Oaks 160710 Campground $1,788,266 $1,812,666 $1,829,266 HGH PR Highland Oaks 160700 General Operations $65,550 $65,850 $66,050 HRV PR Holly Oaks 160700 General Operations $540,985 $550,085 $556,285 IND PR Independence Oaks 160700 General Operations $1,277,079 $1,297,579 $1,311,479 LYP PR Lyon Oaks 160010 Golf (Includes F&B) $1,785,681 $1,809,781 $1,826,581 LYP PR Lyon Oaks 160700 General Operations $340,651 $346,151 $349,751 LYP PR Lyon Oaks 160720 Conference Center $205,034 $205,334 $205,334 NR PR Natural Resources 160431 Natural Resources $2,030,954 $2,024,554 $2,044,054 NR PR Natural Resources 160432 Outreach (formerly NR - CISMA) $489,601 $497,801 $503,301 ORN PR Orion Oaks 160700 General Operations $208,330 $210,530 $211,930 RDP PR Red Oaks 160010 Golf (Includes F&B) $778,636 $790,136 $798,136 RDP PR Red Oaks 160700 General Operations $365,070 $371,470 $375,970 RDP PR Red Oaks 160740 Waterpark $1,955,204 $1,986,704 $2,008,104 35.76% 12.86%24.65% 4.61% 8.93% 4.75% 7.54% 0.69% 0.21% FY2023 Operating Expenses Salaries Fringe Benefits Contractual Services Commodities Depreciation Internal Services Budgeted Equity Adjustments Intergovernmental Transfers Transfers Out Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 21 Abbrev. Budget Center Descriptions Program Program Description FY2023 FY2024 FY2025 REC PR Recreation Programs & Services 160700 General Operations $2,113,904 $2,155,704 $2,184,404 RSE PR Rose Oaks 160700 General Operations $66,470 $66,770 $66,970 SPR PR Springfield Oaks 160010 Golf (Includes F&B) $1,168,748 $1,189,448 $1,204,048 SPR PR Springfield Oaks 160700 General Operations $652,712 $660,612 $665,912 WLG PR White Lake Oaks 160010 Golf (Includes F&B) $1,151,910 $1,173,210 $1,188,210 WLG PR White Lake Oaks 160720 Conference Center $169,841 $170,141 $170,141 WTR PR Waterford Oaks 160500 Market $218,891 $223,491 $226,591 WTR PR Waterford Oaks 160700 General Operations $783,800 $795,200 $802,900 WTR PR Waterford Oaks 160740 Waterpark $833,520 $847,920 $857,720 Planned use of balance 160666 Planned use of balance $2,670,370 $3,552,538 $4,227,288 ADM Administrative Services 160000 General Services Admin Services $8,267,705 $8,384,157 $8,475,557 FSA Fiscal Services 1820X0 Financial Planning $564,169 $576,149 $585,599 TOTALS $36,466,257 $37,803,657 $38,840,357 Capital Improvement Program $6,639,414 Maintenance Management Plan $911,050 Capital Equipment Plan $1,014,274 Source: (OCPR September 7 2022) Volunteers The volunteer services unit supports current volunteers and recruits new volunteers. Every year, individual volunteers renew their Volunteer Agreement and sign off on their Waiver of Liability so that records are current and accurate. Volunteer Recruitment Recruitment efforts include online recruitment and tracking tools and external partnerships. Volgistics is a web-based tracking database which records volunteer hours, assignments, contact information and interest areas and allows Volunteer Services and volunteer supervisors to communicate directly with volunteers. Volunteer Match is a web-based volunteer program that acts similarly to a job board, reaching new volunteers by tapping into individuals already interested in and seeking out volunteer opportunities. Volunteer Services collaborates with Communications and Marketing to promote volunteer opportunities and recognize notable service through social media channels, e-marketing messages and press releases. We develop and maintain external relationships through participation in the Southeast Michigan Volunteer Coordinator Network, establishing relationships with local high schools and college programs and through corporate relationships with companies that seek to involve employees in volunteer service opportunities. Volunteer Training Volunteers receive training and orientation for their specific position responsibilities from the supervisor of the specific area in which they are serving. General information about the volunteer program is communicated through Volunteer Services. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 22 Volunteer Opportunities Oakland County Parks and Recreation offers individuals and groups a variety of opportunities to give back to their community, in areas such as: Adaptive Recreation: Volunteers assist with events designed for individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities, seniors, and veterans. Activities include special events, socials, tours, and adaptive sports for individuals with disabilities. Campgrounds: Campground volunteers perform a variety of tasks that support customer service efforts, such as answering campers’ questions, explaining rules, providing directions, assisting with check-in, maintaining flower beds, picking up trash, clearing trails, monitoring restroom cleanliness and assisting with arts and crafts, dances, games and events. Corporate Workdays: As an increasing number of organizations are encouraging employees to volunteer and are often paying employees their regular salary to volunteer a certain number of hours each year, Volunteer Services receives frequent requests to accommodate large, corporate workdays. Park and/or program supervisors are able to request such a volunteer group to assist in completion of specific projects or assistance at events. Golf Courses: Golf volunteers support one of five golf courses as a starter, ranger, player’s assistant, or cart attendant. History Corps: As one of our newest programs, the historical program is a growing area of interest. These volunteers learn about history and preservation while supporting the excavation, identification, research, documentation, and archiving Oakland County Parks historical assets. Activities include exploration and documentation of historical sites through mapping, surveying, excavation, soil sifting and tagging. Volunteers in the history center archives conduct asset inventory, restoration, library management and artifact preparation. Nature Centers: Nature center volunteers assist staff by greeting guests; caring for captive animals; assisting with nature education programs, badge days and trail walks; preparing program and craft supplies; and maintaining gardens. Natural Resources Stewardship: Individuals, schools and corporate workday groups support restoration and management of natural areas. They help to control and remove invasive plant species and to collect and disperse native plant seed. Volunteers for Citizen Science focus on monitoring bluebird nest boxes. Scout Projects: Scouts requiring a service project as requirement for an award are often put in contact with a park supervisor and, when appropriate, have collaborated to complete a park- improvement project. Ski Patrol: Independence Oaks provides cross county skiing opportunities and rentals when weather permits, and the Ski Patrol volunteers patrol trails, provide customer service and assist park staff in emergency response. Some of Oakland County Parks’ ski patrollers are certified Nordic Ski Patrol volunteers, which requires special training and certification in backcountry emergency response. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 23 Special Events: The uniqueness of Oakland County’s volunteer program rests largely on the fact that volunteers do not have to make long term commitments when they choose to help with one-day special events such as Fire & Ice Festival, the Great Marshmallow Drop as well as events held all over the County throughout the year. Trails Ambassadors: Trails ambassadors patrol trails on foot to promote safe and proper use of the trails and to provide information to visitors about park rules and policies. They also identify and report areas of concern or maintenance needs to park staff. Partnerships OCPR has a variety of partnerships throughout the county with local communities, non-profit organizations, and the business community. Partnerships help us expand our reach into the communities and spread the word about the parks, facilities, and programs we provide. Strategic partnerships often develop around a specific need or goal that is shared by OCPR and our partner. OCPR currently benefits from a variety of dedicated partners who support park development, facility maintenance and management as well as recreation programs and services opportunities. Partners often provide educational resources, subject matter expertise and other resources to support OCPR’s core values and goals. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 24 This page left intentionally blank Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 25 Recreation Inventory Oakland County is blessed with an abundance of high-quality natural resources, green spaces, public parks and recreational facilities - including approximately 70,000 acres of federal, state, county and local parkland, 358 inland lakes, the headwaters of 6 major rivers, and more than 100 miles of regional trailways. Parks and recreational spaces are core infrastructure that support the quality of life, economic prosperity, environment, and physical and mental health of our residents. Unfortunately, gaps exist in access to these benefits and the gaps disproportionately impact marginalized or underserved groups, including communities of color, people with physical or cognitive disabilities, low-income people, immigrants, and people in LGBTQ+ communities. The Centers for Disease Control’s Healthy People 2030 ix sets data-driven national objectives to improve health and well-being over the next decade. The objective for physical activity is relevant: Improve health, fitness, and quality of life through regular physical activity. Only one in four adults and one in five adolescents in the United States meet physical activity guidelines for aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities. Most people do not get the recommended amount of physical activity and it can be especially hard for older adults and people with chronic diseases or disabilities. Strategies that make it safer and easier to get active — like providing access to parks and programs — can help people get more physical activity. Parks also provide access to nature, which has been shown to lower stress levels and improve mental health. COVID-19 and resulting mitigation measures have highlighted the essential role that parks, trails, and natural spaces play in supporting the mental and physical well-being of our residents. As attendance levels skyrocketed, our parks and green spaces became a place of recovery, restoration, comfort, social connectivity, and physical activity. Park Inventory Inventory Method – Oakland County Parks Oakland County Parks maintains a database of properties, assets, existing conditions, and projects. Table 5: Oakland County Parks and Recreation statistics and three-year trends Statistic FY2019 FY2020 FY2021 Geography Number of parks 13 parks 14 parks 14 parks Total park system acreage 6,748 acres 6,849 acres 6,851 acres Park System Usage Estimated total park visits 1,933,202 1,331,413 1,672,113 Percent increase in total park visits from previous year -2% -31% 26% Park Assets Total square feet of buildings 474,840 476,140 476,140 Total estimated replacement value of fixed assets $116,233,726 $119,814,330 $119,814,330 Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 26 Table 6: Facility inventory – Oakland County Parks and Recreation Parks Park Name Facility Type Addison Oaks Catalpa Oaks Glen Oaks Groveland Highland Oaks Holly Oaks Independence Lyon Oaks Orion Oaks Red Oaks Rose Oaks Springfield Oaks Waterford Oaks White Lake Oaks Acres 1,144 24 122 361 301 170 1,288 1,040 916 141 670 333 197 238 Entry Fee Banquets, activity centers, concessions Beaches Biking and skating Boating and fishing Camping Court games Disc golf Dog park Fairs and expositions Farmers market Field sports Fitness equipment Golf Historic and cultural features Hunting and archery Miniature golf Natural areas Nature centers Off-road vehicle Open space areas Pavilions, stages, amphitheaters Playgrounds Trails Waterparks ACTIVITY TYPE Equestrian Winter Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 27 Figure F: Location map of Oakland County Parks and Recreation parks Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 28 Recreation Programs and Services In addition to and in support of our 14 park facilities, OCPR has a robust Recreation Programs and Services (RPS) unit that provides programming and support throughout the park system as well as to local communities, non-profit organizations and other partners. The RPS unit helps to activate our parks and facilities by providing unique and exciting programs and events that bring people to our parks. Recreation Assistance Partnership Program (RAPP) The RPS unit provides recreation services to local communities through our Recreation Assistance Partnership Program (RAPP). This program provides outreach services to local communities to enhance their recreational programs and activities. Mobile Recreation OCPR’s Mobile Recreation section has a variety of mobile units that can be utilized throughout the county. We are constantly evaluating and managing our fleet of mobile units to meet the needs of local communities and park users. Historically mobile units could be rented for a fee and were also provided free of charge as part of the RAPP program. Current mobile units include: • Inflatable bouncers and mazes • Rock climbing tower • Mobile stages • Regional events • Bleachers • Inflatable movie screen • GO! Adventure trailers (fishing, golf) Park System Programming OCPR operates 14 county parks with various amenities throughout the county. The RPS unit develops and provides programs, special events and activities throughout the park system that bring in visitors and provide unique experiences for park users. Example programs include campground recreation programs, nature hikes, history programs, seasonal/holiday programs, etc. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 29 Adaptive and Active Adult Programming OCPR is known throughout the region for having a robust adaptive and therapeutic recreation program. We have also increased programming for seniors (or active adults), as the demand for this type of recreational programming continues to increase. Staff partner with local communities across the county to provide adaptive and therapeutic recreational programs and events, as this is not always a service that communities are able to provide on their own. Adaptive programs range from adaptive sports clinics and off-road vehicle tours to social gatherings and dances for persons with disabilities and their families and caregivers. Active adult programming includes activities for adults and seniors that get people outside and active. Programs include the River Walk at Red Oaks Waterpark, as well as kayaking programs at the lakes in our parks. Nature Education and Interpretation With this new Recreation Master Plan update OCPR has designated Nature Education as a core service. We will also be working to better integrate our nature center and nature education staff with our natural resources management team to provide even more nature and environmental education opportunities to our residents. Our nature education team provide services at two nature centers (Red Oaks Nature Center and the Wint Nature Center at Independence Oaks). They also provide programs and activities within our parks and out in the communities as part of the RAPP program. Popular programs include nature hikes, animal programs, nature crafts, star-lab (inflatable planetarium), and the long-standing Tuning Your Tot into Nature program for preschool age kids. The nature education team also provides programs and activities for school groups through field trips our outreach visits, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts through badge days and other educational programs, and parties at the nature center. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 30 Accessibility Assessment The 2022 Community Needs Assessment (see Appendix A) included a question asking the level of agreement with a set of statements regarding barriers to participation. The top reasons indicated lack of information, outdoor pests, not enough time. Health reasons and physical disabilities ranked in the middle. Inclusion issues such as feeling unsafe, unwelcome, or uncomfortable ranked lower. Figure G: 2022 Community Needs Assessment question regarding barriers to outdoor recreation The Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission recognizes the need to provide universally accessible facilities and adaptive recreation opportunities to the aging population and those with disabilities. According to the U.S. Census, 7.5% of persons in the United States under 65 have a disability (U.S. Census Bureau 2022). With the retiring of the boomer generation and increased longevity, there will likely be an increase in the number of older persons developing some type of disability. The table below shows the age trends of Oakland County’s population. The following sections describe our multi- pronged approach to providing facilities, programs and information that are accessible and inclusive. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 31 Table 7: U.S. Census data showing trends in ages of U.S. population Population Statistic 2000 U.S. Census Oakland County 2010 U.S. Census Oakland County 2020 U.S. Census Oakland County Population Total 1,194,156 1,202,362 1,243,970 Percent Change from previous census 0.7% 3.5% Age Persons under 5 years 6.7% 5.7% 5.2% Population younger than 18 years of age 25.2% 23.5% 20.5% Population older than 65 years of age 11.3% 13.2% 17.8% Adaptive Recreation Programs and Services The Adaptive Recreation Program at Oakland County Parks and Recreation was developed in 1980 to provide therapeutic recreation programs and services for individuals with disabilities. By forming partnerships with more than 30 non-profit agencies, schools, and disabled sports organizations, we can cooperatively provide unique recreation options. Working with other park staff, adaptive recreation specialists develop alternative methods of providing programs or services that do not change the primary focus of the program or service and ensure that events are as accessible as possible. Photo right: Friendship at OCPR’s Youth Abilities Program Adaptive Recreation Equipment We offer specialized equipment to people with disabilities to assist them in exploring and recreating within the parks. This equipment is available to those needing it at a cost equal to similar rental equipment. This equipment includes golf carts, pedal boats, pool transfer chairs, hand-cycles, and cross-country skis. ADA Transition Plans: 2006 and 2015 Update The Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission contracted with consultants in 2006 to complete the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Americans with Disabilities (ADA) Assessment and Master Plan. The report created a list of all deficiencies within the parks that would need correction to bring the park system fully in compliance with ADA, as well as best practices recommendations. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 32 Over the past 15 years, individual tasks have been prioritized and planned for as part of the annual capital improvement and maintenance management plans, generally associated with other facility updates and repairs. Facilities reach the end of their useful life are replaced to meet or exceed accessibility requirements, with the goal of meeting universal design standards. Updated ADA Transition Plans were created in 2017, incorporating the federal Department of Justice 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design. New Facilities and Universal Design Universal design results in a built environment that allows independent use and inclusive participation by people with disabilities, without separating them from others. When building new facilities or replacing existing facilities, we strive to design facilities and structures that are easily used by all. Photo right: Playgrounds are replaced with new installations that meet or exceed ADA guidelines Website Accessibility One of the highest priorities for Oakland County Parks and Recreation is to provide information in a format that can be readily accessed by people with disabilities. Oakland County websites are designed using standards provided by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), www.w3.org, an international community that develops open standards to ensure the long-term growth of the web, including web accessibility guidelines that are widely regarded as the international standard. Participation in Planning by People with Disabilities OCPRC understands that it cannot provide the facilities, programs, and services that individuals with disabilities want and need without their input into the planning process. As stated above, OCPR has formed a partnership with more than 30 non-profit agencies, schools, and disabled sports organizations. In addition, OCPR maintains a list of email addresses of about 150 people and organizations interested in accessibility issues. Using these means of communication, OCPR can quickly notify the disability community of events, public input opportunities, and other information of interest. Accessibility Updates in 2023-2027 Update of the ADA Transition Plans, actions that correct ADA compliance issues, and development of universally accessible new and replacement facilities is a top priority for OCPR in the next 5 years. This has been addressed in Strategic Action Plan and in each individual Park Action Plan. The chart on the following page estimates the level of compliance and the application of universal design in the major types of facilities in OCPR parks and calculates an average score for each park and each facility type. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 33 Table 8: OCPR Parks Accessibility Assessment Park Name Facility Type Addison Oaks Catalpa Oaks Glen Oaks Groveland Oaks Highland Oaks Holly Oaks Independence Oaks Lyon Oaks Orion Oaks Red Oaks Rose Oaks Springfield Oaks Waterford Oaks White Lake Oaks Facility Average Access routes and parking lots 2 4 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 4 3 2 2 2 2.57 Banquets, activity centers, concessions 3 3 3 3 3 4 3 3 3 3.11 Beaches 3 3 3.00 Camping and cabins 3 3 2 3 2 2.60 Dog park 4 3 3 3.33 Fairs and expositions 2 2.00 Farmer's market 2 2.00 Field sports 2 2 3 2.33 Fitness equipment 2 2.80 Golf courses 3 3 3 2 3 2.80 Nature centers 3 3 3.00 Pavilions and amphitheaters 3 5 3 2 2 2 3 3 2 2 2.70 Playgrounds 5 5 3 3 2 5 5 4.00 Trails 3 5 3 3 2 3 3 2 5 3 1 3 3.00 Water access, boating, fishing 5 2 5 3 5 2 5 4.00 Waterparks and spray parks 3 3 3.00 Park Average 3.43 4.20 3.00 2.88 3.67 2.25 2.57 2.90 2.40 3.60 3.67 2.00 2.75 2.67 2.89 Facility Accessibility Grade 1 – None of the facility meets accessibility guidelines 2 – Some of the facility meets accessibility guidelines 3 – Most of the facility meets accessibility guidelines 4 – The entire facility meets accessibility guidelines 5 – The entire facility was developed using the principles of universal design Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 34 Grant-Assisted Parks and Facilities Unless otherwise noted, all grant-funded facilities and improvements listed in the table below remain open to the public for the purpose of outdoor recreation. Please see individual Park Action Plans for a list of grant projects. Grant compliance reports are submitted to the DNR separate from this document. Service Portfolio The Service Portfolio is an inventory of our recreational services with market and cost recovery analyses. The overarching goal is a clear understanding of the services we provide, who benefits from those services, and a determination of the appropriate level of cost recovery (and therefore fees/charges, marketing efforts, partner/sponsor opportunities, etc.). This is intended to help the Commission and staff to design an optimal mix of recreation services that serve Oakland County residents and help sustain the park system financially into the future. The Service Portfolio pyramid above was originally developed in 2012. It shows the five tiers of beneficiaries of OCPRC services and the target cost recovery for each tier at that time. Adjustments to the tiers and targets are proposed in 2022 better reflect the operation of the park system and provide more measurable and actionable goals and targets. Recreation Services Cost Recovery Targets The chart on the next page outlines updated cost recovery targets for major recreation service categories with historic performance data. Target levels reflect the objectives set for each service area to be financially self-sufficient or to be supported by public funds. Services that provide greater benefit to individuals have increased expectations to achieve full cost recovery and to generate excess revenues that can be utilized to reinvest in facilities and equipment. Property tax revenues and other public funding sources are primarily dedicated to services that provide a broad community impact and fulfill the core mission of Oakland County Parks and Recreation. Cost recovery levels are determined by assessing the total amount of revenues generated versus total expenditures (excluding non-cash depreciation expenses). Performance measurements are utilized in developing strategy, establishing user fee levels, and evaluating budget and capital investment decisions. Recreation facilities or service that perform substantially below cost recovery target Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 35 objectives will be regularly reviewed by the Fiscal Sustainability Committee and staff to develop a fiscal improvement strategy and make recommendations to the Parks Commission. Tier 5 – Primarily Individual Benefit Cost Recovery Target = 100% Event Centers Event centers (formerly called conference centers) are facilities that are focused on providing a quality experience that includes providing food and beverage service to groups. Four event centers are provided below and are identified as a separate budget program. The Addison Oaks and Glen Oaks facilities are managed under contract by a private vendor who markets, schedules, and provides services to customers. OCPR is paid a set percentage of the vendor’s net revenue per the contract. Building and grounds maintenance and capital improvements are funded by OCPR. Lyon Oaks and White Lake Oaks are in the process of converting to a model with OCPR marketing and scheduling the venue and the customer engaging their own caterer. Bar service may also be provided by OCPR in the future. Budget Center Program Name ADD 160720 Addison Oaks Event Center GLG 160720 Glen Oaks Event Center LYG 160720 Lyon Oaks Event Center LYG 160720 White Lake Oaks Event Center Golf Courses Golf courses include golf carts, driving ranges, pro shop sales, and grill room food services. The golf courses across the system are generally performing at or near the 100% target. Budget Center Program Name GLG 160010 Glen Oaks Golf Course LYG 160010 Lyon Oaks Golf Course RDG 160010 Red Oaks Golf Course SPG 160010 Springfield Oaks Golf Course WLG 160010 White Lake Oaks Golf Course Waterparks Waterparks are enclosed facilities with pools and other water play features. Entry fee is required to use the waterparks. They are recognized as a separate budgetary program within two parks in the system. Budget Center Program Name RDP 160740 Red Oaks Waterpark WTR 160740 Waterford Oaks Waterpark Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) Areas The off-road vehicle park is a specialized facility and, per the lease agreement with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, is expected to full recover its costs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 36 Budget Center Program Name HRV 160700 Holly Oaks ORV Park Campgrounds OCPR offers camping at Addison Oaks, Groveland Oaks, and Independence Oaks and includes rental of cabins and yurts. Campgrounds are not currently identified as separate program areas in the operating budget for cost recovery calculation, but these rentals would also be identified at Tier 5. KPIs to evaluate campgrounds are under development. Other Tier 5 Services within Limited Access and Open Access Parks The Limited Access and Open Access parks (see below) contain facilities and offer services that have cost recovery targets that are aligned with different tiers but are not easily separated into budget centers and program. For these services, we are developing separate methods of cost recovery calculation and/or identifying other KPIs to evaluate. These include: Concessions and Vending Long-Term Leases Merchandise for Resale Tier 4 – Majority Individual Benefit Cost Recovery Target = 75% Farmers Market The Farmers Market at Waterford Oaks rents stalls and provides services for vendors of fresh local produce and crafters. The Market is open to the public and offers free programming and access to fresh food includes acceptance of food assistance programs. Because of this public benefit, the Market is partially subsidized. Budget Center Program Name WTR 160500 Waterford Oaks Oakland County Market Dog Parks OCPR offers dog parks at Lyon Oaks, Orion Oaks, and Red Oaks. The dog parks are not currently identified as separate program areas in the operating budget for cost recovery calculation. These facilities are identified at Tier 4, because of the strong individual benefit to dog owners, with some community benefit due to the preservation of open space and the ubiquity of dog ownership. KPIs to evaluate dog parks are under development. Other Tier 4 Services within Limited Access and Open Access Parks The Limited Access and Open Access parks (see below) contain facilities and offer services that have cost recovery targets that are aligned with different tiers but are not easily separated into budget centers and program. For these services, we are developing separate methods of cost recovery calculation and/or identifying other KPIs to evaluate. These include: Equipment Rental Mobile Recreation Services Rental Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 37 Tier 3 – Balanced Benefit Cost Recovery Target = 50% Fairs and Expositions The Fairgrounds, Ellis Barn and Activity Center at Springfield Oaks provide a venue for both private events, expositions, and community events, including the annual Oakland County Fair. It is considered to have an approximately even mixture of public and private benefits. Budget Center Program Name SPR 160700 Springfield Oaks Park Recreation Programs (not included with RAPP) Recreation programs are considered to provide an even mixture of public and private benefits. Individuals and groups register for the programs, which provide healthful activities that benefit the community. Recreation programs are not considered a separate program area from other services provided by the RPS budget center (Recreation Programs and Services). Others KPIs to evaluate recreation programs are under development. Tier 3 Services within Limited Access and Open Access Parks The Limited Access and Open Access parks (see below) contain facilities and offer services that have cost recovery targets that are aligned with different tiers but are not easily separated into budget centers and program. For these services, we are developing separate methods of cost recovery calculation and/or identifying other KPIs to evaluate. These include: Athletic Fields Rental Facilities – activity centers, meeting rooms, pavilions Tier 2 – Majority Community Benefit Cost Recovery Target = 25% Limited Access Parks (Vehicle Permit Required) The parks below require a vehicle permit to enter the park, limiting access to those who pay a fee. The fee is waived for veterans and resident seniors, who can receive a separate entry permit. Because of this barrier to entry, these parks have some individual benefit in addition to the very strong community benefit from providing open space and preserving natural resources and thus are expected to recover at least a quarter of their costs. Some of the parks also have other fee-based services, such as campgrounds, pavilion and lodge rentals, and dog parks. Budget Center Program Name ADD 160700 Addison Oaks Park (includes campground, pavilion, and lodge rentals) GRV 160700 Groveland Oaks Park (includes campground and pavilion rentals) HGH 160700 Highland Oaks Park IND 160700 Independence Oaks Park (includes campground, nature center, and pavilion rentals) LYP 160700 Lyon Oaks Park (includes dog park and athletic fields) ORN 160700 Orion Oaks Park (includes dog park) RSE 160700 Rose Oaks Park Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 38 Tier 1 – Primarily Community Benefit/Core Recreation Mission Cost Recovery Target = 0% Open Access Parks Three parks in the system do not require a vehicle permit and therefore have no barrier to entry. These parks also have other fee-based services, such as campgrounds, pavilion and lodge rentals, and dog parks. Budget Center Program Name CAT 160700 Catalpa Oaks Park (includes pavilion and athletic fields) RDP 160700 Red Oaks Park (includes nature center) WTR 160700 Waterford Oaks Park (includes pavilion, lodge, activity center and other rental facilities) Recreation Assistance Partnership Program (RAPP) OCPR provides programs and equipment free of charge to local communities based on community recreation need and equitable distribution of park and recreation services. Nature Education Centers and Interpretive Programs OCPR has nature education centers at Red Oaks and Independence Oaks and delivers interpretive programs throughout the county. A small fee may be charged for programs for the purpose of confirming registration. Natural Resources Management Preservation of natural resources has always been at the heart of the services OCPR provides to county residents by restoring natural habitats. Administration and Support Services Management of OCPR, as well as fiscal management, communications, and marketing, planning and resource development, information technology, and other services provides support for all aspects of the parks system. Priority Investment Ranking (PIR) The PIR is developed by ETC Institute and is part of their analysis of the Community Needs Assessment. The PIR equally weights the importance that residents place on facilities or programs and how many residents have unmet needs for the facility or program. 1 High – High priority facilities or programs have a PIR score of 100 or higher. This level tracks with OCPR’s core services. 2 Medium – Medium priority facilities or programs have a PIR score from 50 to 99. 3 Lower – Lower priorities facilities or programs have a PIR score less than 50. It is important to note that a Lower PIR may reflect a facility or activity with a niche audience. When a lower PIR activity is pursued, evaluating Alternative Coverage will be especially relevant and making plans to reach a specialized audience is important. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 39 Table 9: Priority Investment Rankings sorted by Facility or Service Category and Service Tier PIR Level PIR Rating Category of Service Service 1 2 Medium 55 Administration and support services Volunteer opportunities 3 3 Lower 23 Athletic fields Baseball and softball diamonds 3 3 Lower 22 Athletic fields Outdoor basketball courts 3 3 Lower 48 Athletic fields Outdoor pickleball courts 3 3 Lower 29 Athletic fields Outdoor tennis courts 3 3 Lower 23 Athletic fields Sports fields – soccer and cricket 5 1 High 117 Campground facilities Camping areas and cabins 4 1 High 111 Dog parks Dog parks 4 3 Lower 25 Exclusive use Equestrian centers and facilities 4 3 Lower 48 Exclusive use Golf courses – 9-hole 4 1 High 157 Farmer markets Farmers markets 5 2 Medium 53 Golf facilities Golf course driving ranges 5 2 Medium 61 Golf facilities Golf courses – 18-hole 2 2 Medium 43 Limited access Archery range 2 3 Lower 36 Limited access Disc golf 2 2 Medium 39 Limited access Ropes course 2 3 Lower 14 Limited access Trails – equestrian 2 3 Lower 47 Limited access Trails – mountain biking 2 2 Medium 51 Limited access Zip lines 1 2 Medium 77 Nature education and interpretation Bird/wildlife watching programs 1 2 Medium 86 Nature education and interpretation Nature education programs 1 3 Lower 42 Nature education and interpretation Nature stewardship programs 2 1 High 106 Open access Food truck rallies 1 2 Medium 80 Open access River access for canoeing and kayaking 1 2 Medium 85 Open access Sledding hills 1 2 Medium 84 Open access Splash pads and spray parks 1 or 2 1 High 121 Open access or limited access Adult fitness equipment 1 or 2 1 High 182 Open access or limited access Beaches 1 or 2 2 Medium 78 Open access or limited access Boating and fishing areas 1 or 2 1 High 114 Open access or limited access Canoe and kayak launch sites 1 or 2 3 Lower 28 Open access or limited access Hunting areas 1 or 2 1 High 132 Open access or limited access Natural areas and open space 1 or 2 1 High 104 Open access or limited access Nature centers 1 or 2 2 Medium 85 Open access or limited access Picnic tables, grills, and benches 1 or 2 2 Medium 81 Open access or limited access Playgrounds 1 or 2 2 Medium 61 Open access or limited access Trails - accessible 1 or 2 1 High 166 Open access or limited access Trails – hiking 5 3 Lower 23 ORV facilities Off-road vehicle areas Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 40 Tier PIR Level PIR Rating Category of Service Service 3 3 Lower 29 Rec programs Adaptive programs 3 1 High 175 Rec programs Adult fitness and wellness programs 3 3 Lower 32 Rec programs Archery programs 3 2 Medium 80 Rec programs Art and photography programs 3 3 Lower 43 Rec programs Before and after school programs 3 2 Medium 62 Rec programs Campground programs 3 3 Lower 41 Rec programs Citizen science programs 3 1 High 167 Rec programs Farmers market programs 3 3 Lower 44 Rec programs Fishing programs 3 2 Medium 60 Rec programs Golf programs and events 3 3 Lower 23 Rec programs Homeschool programs 3 3 Lower 29 Rec programs Pre-school programs 3 3 Lower 17 Rec programs Scouting programs 2 2 Medium 73 Rec programs Water fitness programs 2 2 Medium 86 Rec programs Winter programs 3 3 Lower 27 Rec programs Youth fitness programs 3 3 Lower 38 Rec programs Youth summer camps 3 3 Lower 45 Rec programs Youth swim lessons 5 2 Medium 51 Rental facilities, vehicles, equipment Bus trips 5 3 Lower 46 Banquet centers Banquet facilities 5 3 Lower 48 Rental facilities, vehicles, equipment Indoor event rental space 5 2 Medium 91 Rental facilities, vehicles, equipment Kayak, canoe, paddleboard rentals 5 3 Lower 12 Rental facilities, vehicles, equipment Mobile unit rentals 5 2 Medium 52 Rental facilities, vehicles, equipment Outdoor pavilions to rent for events 3 1 High 110 Special community events Art/antique/craft shows 3 1 High 128 Special community events Community festivals 5 2 Medium 82 Waterpark facilities Waterparks and waterslides Facilities not in the OCPR park system: Tier PIR Level PIR Rating Category of Service Service TBD 1 High 127 Undetermined Indoor aquatic centers TBD 2 Medium 72 Undetermined Indoor recreation centers TBD 3 Lower 45 Undetermined Indoor ice rinks and arenas Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 41 Service Strategies Table 10: Service Strategy Table Tier PIR High Alternate Coverage/ Meets KPI Targets High Alternate Coverage/ Does Not Meet KPI Targets Low Alternate Coverage/ Meets KPI Targets Low Alternate Coverage/ Does Not Meet KPI Targets Tier 1 All PIR Connect core services Connect and promote core services Invest in core services Invest in and promote core services Tiers 2 - 5 All PIR Maintain Divest Invest Evaluate to invest or divest Alternative Coverage We review whether other public or private agencies provide the service, and whether that coverage is high or how. We will update service area maps and identify other public and private facilities that provide a similar service. For day use parks, this will be the 10-minute driveshed. For golf, waterparks, campgrounds, and other facilities where zip codes are available from sales, we will use the median drive-time area. Key Performance Indicator (KPI) Targets See Strategic Action Plan for a list of proposed KPIs. Further development of KPIs with baselines and targets will be done in the first year of the Recreation Plan. Development of the service includes an evaluation of whether the service is meeting its KPI targets. Not meeting the targets may trigger a decision to invest in the service or facility to enhance performance or a consideration of divestment to no longer provide that service. Strategies Core Services – Services that are essential to OCPR vision and values and typically benefit all community members including under-resourced populations. These are the basic services that park agencies provide to communities. OCPR strategy is to evaluate if the park system is providing the subsidized service in a cost-effective manner and that the services are known by the community and accessible to everyone. This updated Service Portfolio identifies Core Services as Tier 1 services – i.e., those services that are of mostly community benefit, are completely subsidized by the Parks Commission, and the Community Needs Assessment has identified is needed by County residents. These are services with no or very low barrier to entry and are opportunities to improve the health of County residents through outdoor recreation. The 2016 Discovery Report (Skidmore Studio 2016) noted that “People say they like to do simple, basic things at parks; people like clean, quiet parks that are close to home; and, when given a long list of options, residents choose typical park activities as their most preferred.” Invest – Make improvements and promote to increase market share; evaluate pricing related to cost recovery and target markets. Consider expanding delivery of service. Consider improvements to Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 42 associated assets beyond maintenance of critical systems and resolution of health, safety, and compliance issues. Maintain – Maintain the service at its current level of investment. Maintain critical systems of associated assets and resolve health, safety, and compliance issues. Evaluate to invest or divest – Evaluate if duplication of services exists with other agencies and what adjustments could be made to diversity services, connect services, and broaden the reach of all providers. If no duplication exists or if changes are made to diversify, Alternative Coverage will change to Low. – the service is not meeting its target may be a signal of underinvestment or underpromotion of the service and investment of resources is needed. Consider divestment when the community is well- served by other providers for this service and our resources are better invested elsewhere. Divest – Stop providing this service Inventory of Regional and Community Parks in Oakland County The Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG) supports local planning through its technical, data, and intergovernmental resources. The work SEMCOG does improves the quality of the region's water, makes the transportation system safer and more efficient, revitalizes communities, and spurs economic development. The SEMCOG region includes the counties of Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, St. Clair, Washtenaw, and Wayne. As a county parks agency, it is important for OCPR to understand the resources and capacity of other regional park agencies (Huron Clinton Metropark Authority (HCMA) and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), as well as local community parks and recreation agencies. We rely on SEMCOG’s role as a clearinghouse for local and regional park information. The following inventory uses data assembled within SEMCOG’s Park Finder data application.15 Figure H (right): Oakland County park and recreation resources identified by Park Finder 15 https://maps.semcog.org/parkfinder/?mcd=all+communities&county=Oakland Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 43 Figure I: Oakland County recreation lands Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 44 Table 11: Regional Park Assets – Huron Clinton Metropark Authority PARK_OWNER Huron Clinton Metropark Authority PARK_NAME Indian Springs Metropark Kensington Metropark Stony Creek Metropark PARK_LOCATION Springfield Township Milford Township Shelby Township ACRES 2,547.53 4,489.02 4,418.28 BALLFIELDS BEACH BMX_AREA BOATING CAMPING CONCESSIONS CROSSCOUNTRY_SKIING DISC_GOLF_COURSE EQUESTRIAN_ACTIVITIES FARM_GARDEN_ACTIVITIES FISHING GEOCACHING GOLF_COURSE HIKING_NATURE_TRAILS HUNTING_TRAPPING_AREA ICE_SKATING INDOOR_EVENT_FACILITIES KAYAKING_CANOEING MONUMENT_HISTORIC_FEATURE MULTIPURPOSE_ATHLETIC_FIELD MUSEUM_INTERPRETIVE_CENTER MOUNTAIN_BIKING_TRAILS NATURAL_AREA PICNIC_SHELTER PLAY_AREA RESTROOMS SHOOTING_RANGE SLEDDING_HILL SNOWBOARDING SOCCER_FIELD VOLLEYBALL_COURT WALKING_BIKING_TRAILS_PAVED WATER_PARK_SPRAY_PARK WILDLIFE_WATCHING ENTRY_FEE Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 45 Table 12: Regional Park Assets - Michigan Department of Natural Resources PARK_OWNER Michigan Department of Natural Resources PARK_NAME Bald Mountain State Recreation Area Davisburg State Game Area (Trout Pond) Dodge Brothers State Park No. 4 Dodge Brothers State Park No. 10 Highland State Recreation Area Holly State Recreation Area PARK_LOCATION Orion Township Springfield Township Waterford Township Highland Township White Lake Township Groveland Township ACRES 4,724.58 99.71 95.87 126.76 5,850.90 7,763.77 BALLFIELDS BEACH BMX_AREA BOATING CAMPING CONCESSIONS CROSSCOUNTRY_SKIING DISC_GOLF_COURSE EQUESTRIAN_ACTIVITIES FARM_GARDEN_ACTIVITIES FISHING GEOCACHING GOLF_COURSE HIKING_NATURE_TRAILS HUNTING_TRAPPING_AREA ICE_SKATING INDOOR_EVENT_FACILITIES KAYAKING_CANOEING MONUMENT_HISTORIC_FEATURE MULTIPURPOSE_ATHLETIC_FIELD MUSEUM_INTERPRETIVE_CENTER MOUNTAIN_BIKING_TRAILS NATURAL_AREA PICNIC_SHELTER PLAY_AREA RESTROOMS SHOOTING_RANGE SLEDDING_HILL SNOWBOARDING SOCCER_FIELD VOLLEYBALL_COURT WALKING_BIKING_TRAILS_PAVED WATER_PARK_SPRAY_PARK WILDLIFE_WATCHING ENTRY_FEE Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 46 Table 13: Regional Park Assets - Michigan Department of Natural Resources, continued PARK_OWNER Michigan Department of Natural Resources PARK_NAME Maybury State Park Ortonville State Recreation Area Pontiac Lake State Recreation Area Proud Lake State Recreation Area Seven Lakes State Park PARK_LOCATION Northville Township Brandon Township White Lake Township Commerce Township Holly Township ACRES 970.02 1,154.55 3,823.30 3,715.39 1,483.45 BALLFIELDS BEACH BMX_AREA BOATING CAMPING CONCESSIONS CROSSCOUNTRY_SKIING DISC_GOLF_COURSE EQUESTRIAN_ACTIVITIES FARM_GARDEN_ACTIVITIES FISHING GEOCACHING GOLF_COURSE HIKING_NATURE_TRAILS HUNTING_TRAPPING_AREA ICE_SKATING INDOOR_EVENT_FACILITIES KAYAKING_CANOEING MONUMENT_HISTORIC_FEATURE MULTIPURPOSE_ATHLETIC_FIELD MUSEUM_INTERPRETIVE_CENTER MOUNTAIN_BIKING_TRAILS NATURAL_AREA PICNIC_SHELTER PLAY_AREA RESTROOMS SHOOTING_RANGE SLEDDING_HILL SNOWBOARDING SOCCER_FIELD VOLLEYBALL_COURT WALKING_BIKING_TRAILS_PAVED WATER_PARK_SPRAY_PARK WILDLIFE_WATCHING ENTRY_FEE Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 47 Table 14: Community Park Assets 16 Community Name Number of parks >100 acres Total acres of parks >100 acres es Number of parks 15-100 acres Total acres of parks 15-100 acres Number of parks <15 acres Total acres of parks <15 acres Total number of parks Total acres of parks Addison Township 2 1,369 3 159 3 17 8 1,545 Auburn Hills 1 263 3 169 4 12 8 444 Berkley 9 39 9 39 Beverly Hills 3 78 1 1 4 79 Bingham Farms Birmingham 7 210 13 47 20 257 Bloomfield Hills 1 138 1 45 2 183 Bloomfield Township 4 710 4 710 Brandon Township 1 1,154 1 48 2 1,202 Village of Clarkston 1 36 1 36 Clawson 1 35 5 11 6 46 Commerce Township 8 5,036 4 218 8 43 20 5,297 Farmington 1 18 5 22 6 40 Farmington Hills 3 501 8 451 5 21 16 973 Fenton 17 Ferndale 2 44 12 40 14 44 Franklin Groveland Township 2 8,125 2 8,125 Hazel Park Highland Township 4 765 2 132 1 1 7 898 Holly 5 35 5 35 Holly Township 2 1,591 1 79 3 1,670 Huntington Woods 14 18 14 18 Independence Twp 4 2,112 4 2,112 Keego Harbor 13 11 13 11 Lake Angelus Lake Orion 9 16 9 16 Lathrup Village 5 7 5 7 Leonard 1 3 1 3 Lyon Township 6 1,263 6 1,263 Madison Heights 5 250 11 34 16 284 Milford 1 245 1 17 4 15 6 277 16 Source: SEMCOG ParkFinder filtered for publicly owned recreation lands, not including school lands 17 Fenton is in Genesee County with a very small portion extending into Oakland County Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 48 Community Name Number of parks >100 acres Total acres of parks >100 acres es Number of parks 15-100 acres Total acres of parks 15-100 acres Number of parks <15 acres Total acres of parks <15 acres Total number of parks Total acres of parks Milford Township 1 4,489 1 4,489 Northville (Oakland)18 11 35 11 35 Novi 4 870 13 626 8 69 25 1,566 Oak Park 0 0 1 43 9 44 10 87 Oakland Township 9 1,616 5 332 2 12 16 1,960 Orchard Lake Village Orion Township 4 5,913 6 312 4 25 14 6,250 Ortonville 1 48 3 8 4 56 Oxford 1 48 1 1 2 49 Oxford Township 7 1,609 3 87 4 16 14 1,712 Pleasant Ridge 7 16 7 16 Pontiac 2 344 8 281 18 34 28 659 Rochester 4 130 5 26 9 156 Rochester Hills 6 927 10 442 6 52 22 1,421 Rose Township 1 622 2 158 2 16 5 796 Royal Oak 8 272 43 141 51 413 Royal Oak Township 4 12 4 12 South Lyon Southfield 3 418 14 452 11 68 28 938 Springfield Township 7 4,280 2 119 3 10 12 4,409 Sylvan Lake Troy 2 362 14 537 3 21 19 920 Walled Lake 1 17 4 8 5 25 Waterford Township 4 809 7 422 10 78 21 1,309 West Bloomfield Twp 7 1049 8 439 6 28 21 1,516 White Lake Township 4 9,976 1 29 6 41 11 10,046 Wixom 1 348 4 192 6 8 11 548 Wolverine Lake 18 Northville is in Wayne and Oakland counties, data for the Oakland County portion is provided here Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 49 Natural Resources Inventory Natural Resources in Oakland County Oakland County Parks and Recreation’s parkland intersects five watersheds, contains 1,200 acres of open water and adjacent wetlands, and houses more than 21 unique natural communities. The goal of the Natural Resources (NR) department is to manage Oakland County Parks’ natural lands and waters for biodiversity, ecosystem services, and positive visitor experiences. Natural communities, as classified by Michigan Natural Features Inventory (MNFI), are assemblages of plants, animals and other organisms that are repeatedly found in similar climatic, topographic and soil conditions and maintained by natural disturbances like fire, flooding or windthrow. NR uses the historic distribution and structure of natural communities as a “gold standard” of ecological integrity against which we compare present-day assemblages observed in the field. We prioritize protecting areas of parkland with the highest ecological quality, by mitigating against new threats and tackling emerging ones through early detection and rapid response. Where appropriate, NR works to contain established threats and restore disturbed areas towards a version of their historic trajectory. We also aim to support recovery of threatened and rare species by improving their habitat. Management of aquatic and terrestrial natural communities is necessary to mitigate against ecological threats like habitat fragmentation, altered disturbance (fire, grazing) regimes, pollution, climate change and invasive species. NR staff emphasize removing invasive plants, animals, and pathogens because they outcompete native species, disrupt food chains, and alter nutrient and hydrological conditions which threaten natural communities. NR works to reintroduce or mimic landscape processes like fire, grazing, and species dispersal through prescribed burns, mowing, native seeding, and tree planting. Maintaining biodiversity within the parks builds resiliency against climate change and other future threats. Natural resources deliver important ecosystem services, which are processes that benefit humans without additional investment of infrastructure or labor. Native plants release oxygen, sequester carbon, support pollinators, and filter the air. Trees additionally provide shade, and cool urban areas through evapotranspiration. Natural streambanks, lake shorelines and wetlands filter stormwater runoff, reduce flooding, and prevent erosion. NR staff work to enhance ecosystem services throughout Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 50 the parks by restoring ecosystems, promoting green infrastructure practices (like rain gardens, bioswales and tree plantings) in developed areas, and preventing stormwater pollution. OCPR wants its visitors to safely enjoy the beauty of unique natural communities. Cutting down hazardous trees creates safer trails and campgrounds, while removing aquatic invasive plants encourages optimal fishing conditions. OCPR also hosts outreach programs on topics like preventing rattlesnake interactions or coyote hazing so that the public can better understand wildlife in the Oakland County Parks. Natural Resources Outreach Oakland County Parks is committed to showcasing best practices in the work that occurs across park lands and to share information and resources within Oakland County to increase our collective impact as a community. As a result, OCPR provides a number of natural resources-based outreach opportunities throughout the year to improve habitat and biodiversity of our terrestrial and aquatic habitats including a native plant giveaway, boat cleaning stations at high use boat launches throughout the county and coordination of the Oakland County Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (OC CISMA). The OC CISMA was created in 2014 as a collaboration between city, village, and township (CVT) representatives, local non-profits, and universities to address the growing threat of invasive species in Oakland County. Invasive species spread across jurisdictional boundaries and are most effectively managed with a collaborative approach, so CISMAs, such as the one in Oakland County, were formed across the state of Michigan with assistance from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR). The OC CISMA has grown to 45 partners that meet monthly to discuss invasive species related issues, collaboratively work on outreach and education strategies and plan community treatments. OCPR has funded community treatments across the county including surveys for early detection species, roadside treatments of priority species like phragmites and knotweeds and priority treatments and restoration projects within communities across the county. Natural Resource Zones Natural Resources developed a land use scoring system based on the quality of natural systems, communities and ecosystem services recorded in an area. This system combines GIS layers to determine an areas relative ranking across the park system. The zone system showcases our most sensitive areas when pursuing development of trails and other infrastructure so we can continue to provide quality experiences for our park patrons. See individual Park Action Plans for zone maps of each park. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 51 Conservation Zone The most essential areas of the park system for natural resource protection due to rare, threatened, or endangered species; rare or high-quality natural communities; and/or significant regional ecological connections. Often corresponds to MNFI Priority 1 areas. Facility Recommendations: No facility investments are recommended in these areas. The degradation caused by construction or use would significantly and permanently impact the resource and potentially violate state or federal law. Additionally, these areas provide significant ecological support to the rest of the park and enhance user experiences in other areas. Trail Recommendations: No trail types would be suitable within these areas. Recreation Recommendations: Staff guided recreation is recommended in these areas. Staff guided recreation would require an OCPR staff member to be on-site to provide guidance to users. However, these areas could be used unaccompanied for hunting, fishing, and trapping, in moderation, and as guided by Natural Resources staff. Natural Resource Recreation Zone Treasured areas of the parks that connect critical habitats, provide seasonal or temporary protection to wildlife, have unique plant and wildlife specimens or populations, have moderately intact natural communities, and active restoration areas. Facility Recommendations: Facility investments are recommended to be minimal; natural resources should be prioritized over park development in this zone. New vectors for spreading invasive species or disease will be created through development and use, in addition to degradation of desirable habitats and unique plant and wildlife populations. Very significant natural resources investments would be necessary to manage facility investments in these areas. Trail Recommendations: Rustic, hiking or water trails may be suitable within these areas, but location and design should be in consultation with Natural Resources staff. Equestrian and mountain bike trails may occasionally occur within these areas but should be carefully routed to avoid sensitive ecological features. Recreation Recommendations: Passive recreation is recommended in these areas. Passive recreation includes hiking on rustic trails, hunting, fishing, trapping, and wildlife viewing. Developed Recreation Zone Areas of the parks ideal for active recreation that foster positive natural experiences for users and represent a low threat to natural resources. Facility Recommendations: Facility investments in these areas could be balanced by additional natural resource management without significant degradation to resources. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 52 Trail Recommendations: ADA accessible trails, access routes, shared use paths, hiking trails, single track mountain bike trails and equestrian trails are all ideal in this zone. Recreation Recommendations: Active recreation is recommended in these areas. Active recreation includes hiking on multi-use trails, biking, horseback riding, swimming, etc. Park User Services Existing buildings, recreational facilities, campgrounds, pavilions, rental houses, golf courses, park roads, ornamental landscapes, playgrounds, and playing fields and/or courts. These areas are primarily used for operations, administration, and maintenance facilities. Land may benefit from natural resources best practices to enhance user experiences and protect undeveloped lands (ex: preventing spread of invasive species or disease). Facility Recommendations: Facilities are ideal in this zone. Trail Recommendations: All trail types are suitable for this zone. Recreation Recommendations: The highest level of recreational use is ideal in this zone. Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 53 Planning Process Planning Methods Oakland County Parks and Recreation employs multiple planning approaches in developing the Recreation Plan and in ongoing planning efforts. Systems planning As a county parks agency, we consider the community’s needs for parks, open space, and recreational activities on both the county-wide and local community level. Many of OCPR’s parks function as both regional and community parks. Our planning efforts are based on recreation trends and usage data on many levels and collaborative relationships with regional and community partners. Our goal is to provide services that have a regional draw and complement, not compete, with the services provided locally. Equity-based planning With this Recreation Plan and our renewed vision and core values, we are confirming our aspiration for every person in the county to have access to the health and social benefits of outdoor recreation. Using guidelines developed by the US Department of Treasury, we identified communities and census tracts with low or moderate Area Median Income (AMI) to assess locally available outdoor recreation opportunities and provide needed services that will have a positive impact on residents’ health (US Dept of Treasury 4/1/2022). Partnership with county health and housing agencies will give us additional help to provide access and services to under-resourced households. A focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion means that we will evaluate all parks and facilities to ensure they are welcoming to everyone and are barrier-free. Sustainability initiatives will contribute to the resilience and adaptation of our communities to climate change. Conservation planning Oakland County Parks works with local and regional partners to preserve and restore natural systems and open spaces across Oakland County. With this Recreation Plan, we establish a Nature Preserve designation for certain parklands and our land acquisition priorities focus on open land that will contribute to green infrastructure and trail connectivity. See Natural Resources Inventory for more information. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 54 Facility Planning and Development Facility planning and development includes an evaluation and prioritization process based on the core values as well as function, condition, and age of the facility and its associated assets. The annual planning and development process results in the identification and implementation of three types of projects with associated budgets. 1. Capital improvements identified in the Commission-approved Capital Improvement Program (CIP) that is funded through Net Position. 2. Maintenance actions identified in the Commission-approved Maintenance Management Plan (MMP) which is funded through the Facilities Maintenance Operating Budget. After the projects are closed, the costs are re-allocated to each park’s Operating Budget 3. Operational maintenance actions that are directly funded out of the individual park’s Operating Budget Five-Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan – FEBRUARY 2023 – DECEMBER 2027 The Recreation Plan provides the framework for planning and development with the Strategic Action Plan and its Core Values, Key Performance Indicators, Goals, and Objectives. The Recreation Plan provides the baseline for planning and development with the Park Action Plans. Figure J: OCPR Planning and Development process I. Park Action Plan Annual Updates II. Evaluation: Projected Core Values impacts III. Evaluation: Projected facility and operational impacts IV. Recommended projects and forecasted timelines V. Parks Commission budget approval VI. Project design and implementation VII. Evaluation: Completed project outcomes Five-Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 55 I. Park Action Plan Annual Updates – YEAR 1 OCTOBER Planning and development staff meet with park operations staff to review progress in implementing each Park Action Plan, to update information on facility condition and function, review KPIs, and identify issues and needs for action. Each Park Action Plan is updated based on this review. II. Evaluation: Project Core Values Impacts – YEAR 1 NOVEMBER through FEBRUARY Each facility with associated assets is evaluated based on the opportunity to advance the core values. Also identified are the services provided by the facility (based on the Service Portfolio – see Recreational Inventory), the level of community benefit and the Priority Investment Rating (PIR) of those services. Also noted, is the facility’s status in meeting KPI targets. For some facilities, potential alternatives may be explored (e.g., increase in investment, change in operation, or divestment). The evaluation is performed for each of those potential alternatives. III. Evaluation: Projected facility and operational impacts – YEAR 1 NOVEMBER through FEBRUARY Proposed projects and actions are evaluated based on projected outcomes of doing the project. Will the action contribute to advancement of any of the core values and how (e.g., choice of sustainable materials)? Is the action needed for health and safety or compliance (regulatory or grant)? Each of the following outcomes are considered: improved structural integrity; replacements based on life cycle; operational efficiency and savings; enhancement of the facility for customer service improvements; and stabilization or enhancement of revenue. IV. Recommended projects and forecasted timelines – YEAR 1 MARCH and APRIL From the evaluations above, a list of recommended projects for the next fiscal year is generated. The process also results in a list of needs for further evaluation – i.e., facility condition assessments, design and engineering consultation, or Parks Commission evaluation of facility alternatives. The recommendations are generally provided to the Parks Commission in April for conceptual approval and adjustments as indicated. V. Parks Commission budget approval – YEAR 1 SEPTEMBER and YEAR 2 AS SCHEDULED The final list of recommended projects is provided to the Parks Commission for approval as part of the annual budget process. Specific projects will be brought to the Commission for approval based on budgetary thresholds or changes in scope or budget. VI. Project design and implementation – YEAR 2/3 AS SCHEDULED Design and implementation of projects is managed by the Engineering and Development unit with interdisciplinary support throughout the organization. The facility and project evaluations form the basis for an on-depth Planning Review (PR) for planned projects. The PR is part of the collaborative process that integrates staff and external resources and supports OCPR’s Core Values – DEI; Health and Wellness; Environmental Sustainability; and Fiscal Responsibility and Organizational Excellence. VII. Evaluation: Completed project outcomes – YEAR 2/3 AS COMPLETED The outcomes of completed projects will be assessed in relation to the project outcomes identified in the facility and project evaluations. This will include documentation of the project scope and an update of the Park Action Plan. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 56 This page left intentionally blank Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 57 Public and Community Engagement The Recreation Plan is built on input from the public, local communities, regional agencies, and non- profits. One key component of the Recreation Plan update is the Oakland County Recreational Needs Assessment that is conducted every five years. This randomized survey asks Oakland County residents the types of parks, facilities, and programs they use and need and their satisfaction with the current selection in the county. The results will guide the Parks Commission on investment in existing and new recreational opportunities in the OCPR park system, as well as priorities as we partner with local communities who are delivering park and recreation services to their residents. Results from the Recreational Needs Assessment will also be available for community and public review in October 2022. Public and community engagement is ongoing and will continue after the Recreation Plan is approved at the end of 2022 and as we update master plans for individual parks and facilities. The first focus for park master plans are the parks that serve areas with low to moderate median household income: Catalpa Oaks, Lyon Oaks, Red Oaks, and Waterford Oaks. These parks are the recipients of funding through the American Rescue Plan Act in partnership with the Oakland County Board of Commissioners. Surveys and other engagement within the service areas of these individual parks will ensure we make investments people want and that provide opportunities to be healthier. Parks Commission Visioning On April 6, 2022, the Oakland County Parks Commission held a Visioning Workshop at the end of the regular Commission meeting. This workshop was the first step in a longer strategic planning process that is part of the Commission’s update to the 5-Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Prior to the workshop, Commission members responded to a survey containing several statements that they were asked to rank the importance of each statement and select the top 5 for implementation. The results of the survey served as the structure for the Visioning Workshop discussion. We are grateful to our three guest experts who presented information in the first half of the Workshop and participated in the discussion with the Commission: Robin Carter-Cooper, Oakland County Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer Tyler Klifman, SEMCOG Planner, Economic and Community Vitality Erin Quetell, Oakland County Environmental Sustainability Officer The panel provided information and perspective on equity, health, and environmental sustainability in Oakland County. The Parks Commission discussion focused on the role of Oakland County Parks and Recreation in having a positive impact on the well-being of our residents and the resilience of our communities. Overview The Oakland County Parks Commission was asked to complete an online survey (Crowd Signal) in preparation for the Visioning Workshop that will take place on April 6, 2022. The survey consisted of three questions: Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 58 1. How important do you feel are each of the following actions to the Oakland County Parks Commission in 2023-2027 2. Where should Oakland County Parks focus its investment of time and resources first? Please select 5 3. What is important to you as you consider the future of Oakland County Parks and Recreation? 4. Commissioners were also asked to provide their name and zip code (not included in this report). Full Text of Action Statements 1. Manage freshwater and stormwater resources to protect water quality and reduce flooding 2. Deliver nature, education, and recreation programs that welcome everyone 3. Reduce waste by recycling and composting 4. Maintain roads, parking lots, and other park infrastructure 5. Provide equitable access to parks and nature 6. Buy land for new recreational facilities 7. Plant native trees and forests to improve regional climate resiliency and reduce carbon 8. Reach out to underserved communities with recreation programs and mobile recreation services 9. Increase four-season recreation opportunities 10. Make facilities accessible to persons of all abilities 11. Develop new recreational facilities and amenities 12. Renovate existing facilities to be carbon neutral and environmentally sustainable 13. Make walking, biking, or transit connections with neighborhoods and other parks 14. Manage natural areas to improve habitat and connectivity for wildlife 15. Buy land for open space, trails, and the environment 16. Reach out to local communities with support for parks, trails, and natural resources management 17. Provide education about and experiences with local history 18. Identify fiscally unsustainable facilities and assets and remove from service 19. Invest in the health and wellness of our communities with active outdoor programs 20. Improve and add features to existing recreational facilities and amenities Figure K: Parks Commission survey ranking – top 5 selections 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 59 Figure L: Parks Commission Survey Ranking – Importance rating of each action 10% 0% 20% 0% 0% 10% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 40% 60% 20% 30% 20% 20% 30% 10% 10% 20% 0% 10% 0% 10% 10% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 30% 20% 30% 60% 50% 20% 30% 50% 50% 30% 70% 50% 60% 30% 30% 40% 40% 30% 20% 10% 20% 20% 30% 10% 30% 50% 40% 40% 40% 50% 30% 40% 40% 60% 60% 60% 60% 70% 80% 90% 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100% 6 Buy land for new recreational facilities 11 Develop new recreational facilities and amenities 15 Buy land for open space, trails, and the environment 17 Provide education about and experiences with local history 3 Reduce waste by recycling and composting 12 Renovate existing facilities to be carbon neutral and environmentally sustainable 14 Manage natural areas to improve habitat and connectivity for wildlife 7 Plant native trees and forests to improve regional climate resiliency and reduce carbon 9 Increase four-season recreation opportunities 13 Make walking, biking, or transit connections with neighborhoods and other parks 18 Identify fiscally unsustainable facilities and assets and remove from service 19 Invest in the health and wellness of our communities with active outdoor programs 16 Reach out to local communities with support for parks, trails, and natural resources management 1 Manage freshwater and stormwater resources to protect water quality and reduce flooding 20 Improve and add features to existing recreational facilities and amenities 2 Deliver nature, education, and recreation programs that welcome everyone 4 Maintain roads, parking lots, and other park infrastructure 10 Make facilities accessible to persons of all abilities 8 Reach out to underserved communities with recreation programs and mobile recreation services 5 Provide equitable access to parks and nature % Very Important % Important % Somewhat Important % Not Important Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 60 Survey comments from Parks Commissioners: What is important to you as you consider the future of Oakland County Parks and Recreation? Access, equity, and diversity of park portfolio/amenities. Environmental sustainability in all aspects of the Parks systems--including but not limited to-- purchasing, operations, and community engagement/education, etc. Upgrade Catalpa Park. The way it currently exists is a statement of inequality in our County as well as an embarrassment. Ensure OCPR has programs that are inviting to seniors and youth. OCPR should consider taking activities and mobile trucks into the municipalities when it is possible. If an opportunity to collaborate with the local governments the department should. One of the goals is to give the citizens of Oakland County the best recreational experience within the county. Setting examples for sustainability and educating the public about sustainability, climate change, climate mitigation and resiliency. Provide more Family Recreational programing. Eliminate features that are under used and come up with new innovative ideas that will attract more people to our parks. Have some programs where we pick up families in their communities with our buses and take them out to one of our great parks (Nature Centers, Walking trails, Wave Pool, Beaches and Picnic areas all for $15 per family to enjoy a "Day of Fun for the Family". I want to see visioning and investment in Catalpa. The park is primarily used by Soccer players and I would wager that most of them are not even from (residents/citizens) of Southfield/Oak Park or Berkley. What can be done with Catalpa? How can we engage the residents within a 3- mile radius of Catalpa? How can we include people from South Oakland in North Oakland parks (transportation; coordinating with SMART etc.) and vice versa. It is important to me that we invest equally in all areas and demographics making sure that all of Oakland County families have close access to a variety of recreational opportunities and that all those facilities are maintained with equal vigor and investment. We cannot be all things to all people. We should look at these options in terms of our Mission Statement. We also should examine who we are. We know we are not federal parks, state parks, metropolitan parks, or municipal parks. We have wrestled with the definition of a county park before in terms of size and service area. Additionally, our visioning should have an eye to the future. We should be looking out 25 years from now and thinking about what the County will look like, and what will be the role of parks and open spaces. County Executive, David Coulter, delivered his 2022 State of the County address Tuesday, March 15, 2022. His address included the following: "Green places-and-spaces also contribute to a quality life. Our 14 parks and 138 miles of trails provide everything from respite to recreation. They allow us to connect with nature and reconnect with ourselves. The voters of our County once again demonstrated their enthusiastic support by expanding the parks millage. Our parks system is vital to preserving our green space for future generations. Working in collaboration with local communities, I hope to have 400 miles of Oakland County trails linking our parks, our communities and our region for all to enjoy." This should be a top priority. The County Executive's speech also stated that, "Maintaining fiscal discipline and ensuring the county lives within its means is a fundamental principle of good government." Likewise, our visioning should include a priority of staying within our budget. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 61 Parks Commission workshop discussion The following narrative summarizes the discussion from April 6 by the Parks Commission. The top selections from both the importance rating and the priority rating were used as topics to guide the discussion. TOPIC: “Provide equitable access to parks and recreation” Ranked 1 out of 20 Selected in Top 5 by 5 people Discussion: Parks are for all humanity. Parks help people to be healthy. Parks should be close to home and without obstacles. We need to provide the same standard of quality to parks across the entire county. We need to evaluate our parks for how welcoming they feel to diverse groups of people and know that access may mean different things to different people. Is the signage welcoming to everyone and the same across the county? Does the park feel secure and safe? When deciding what we offer in our parks, we need to be aware that stereotypes exist and ask people what they want instead of making assumptions based on age, race, or other characteristics. We want to help people access the benefits of nature and introduce kids to nature. We can work on getting people from the more urbanized parts of the county to our northern parks to experience nature by providing transportation. But we also need to understand that this is not the same as having nature close to home that you can access independently. Bussing alone is not the answer. We understand that not everyone may be comfortable driving from southern to northern Oakland County to visit our larger parks. Rural areas may feel less safe and not inviting to people of color. Everyone needs to feel safe and secure and welcome when visiting. We need to develop partnerships in underserved areas, sit down and talk with the local communities. We can look at land use in the local communities and at planning and zoning regulations to see what opportunities there are for further park development. We need to understand where the gaps are in equitable park access. One is regional trail connectivity. TOPIC: “Reach out to underserved communities with recreation programs and mobile recreation services” Ranked 2 out of 20 Selected in Top 5 by 5 people TOPIC: “Deliver nature, education, and recreation programs that welcome everyone” Ranked 5 out of 20 Selected in Top 5 by 4 people Discussion: We have a role in supporting local special events and helping provide better access to events Events are the reason people visit parks and are how we introduce people to Oakland County Parks Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 62 While it is important to provide services to communities, our main focus is getting people to our parks Food trucks at the parks are a great idea and provide one of the basic things people enjoy Kids are the main reason a lot of people visit our parks. We need to do focus groups with kids. We need to ask people what they want, what experiences they would like to have. We have a role in education and interpretation and working with schools. Accessing marketing tools that use geolocated data will help us understand people’s needs and behaviors. We need to seek out culturally diverse opportunities and engage with new groups. TOPIC: “Make facilities accessible to persons of all abilities” Ranked 3 out of 20 Selected in Top 5 by 2 people Discussion: We may need to prioritize accessibility of existing facilities. We should identify the main services the park provides and make those upgrades first. Plan our facilities for all ages and abilities. Consider the following: Communication and signage: colors, braille, accessible language Body sizes – seating options Blind and low vision Audio cues and audio interpretation Translations for non-English speaking guests. Would this be park-specific depending on the population in the local community? Commissioner input during 30-day comment period Parks Commissioner Lance Stokes provided the following commentary regarding OCPR’s draft Strategic Action Plan (12/9/2022): Thank you for sending out the OCPR 5-Year Master Plan for 2023-2027. There are a number of areas that I can comment on, but I picked Diversity, Equity and Inclusion to provide some feedback on. I am pleased to see you have Diversity, Equity and Inclusion listed as the 1st Core Value. Anyway, the following are just questions and thoughts that I figured might be of worth to present. I like the following definition of diversity: Understanding, accepting, and valuing differences in races, ethnicities, genders, ages, etc. It is also recognizing and respecting differences in education, skill sets, abilities, and experiences. Essentially, we have to get comfortable with being uncomfortable because achieving diversity, equity and inclusion is not easy. Here are a few questions I have. These question are in no specific order, are simply my thoughts put into question form and being presented in the hopes that they may contribute to the success of our OCPR to fully achieve this Core Value. 1. What percentage of workers from diverse groups are employed by OCPR? What percentage ate in key job functions? What percentage of residents near each of our parks are of diverse groups? 2. What specific programs do we have to retain diverse employees? Do we have any specific mentoring programs? How do we monitor participation among races/gender/ethnicity? Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 63 3. Does OCPR actively recruit diverse employees? Does OCPR require a diverse panel to interview job applicants? Does OCPR consider “2nd chance/previously convicted employees diverse? 4. Over the past 4 years, what percentage of women and minorities have been promoted within OCPR? 5. How do individuals from diverse groups earn financial and non-monetary rewards for their work? 6. What program(s) does OCPR have to promote this first Core Value of DEI on an on-going basis? 7. Do we have/offer employees satisfaction surveys to determine if members of diverse groups feel they belong? 8. Who are OCPR’s suppliers? How much money is spent or how much business does OCPR do with supplier businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, LGBTQ people as well as people with disabilities? 9. Space Accessibilities. Is there any benchmark data on accessible entrances of OCPR buildings for physically handicapped. How many gender-neutral bathrooms does OCPR have? 10. How well does OCPR take care of the diverse people that are currently employed by OCPR? 11. What does OCPR’s on-boarding program look like? Is Diversity and Inclusion discussed during on-boarding? 12. What training or coaching is given to existing managers in OCPR to help them welcome new diverse hires? 13. Does OCPR have a “safe” communication channel where diverse employees can voice their concerns without fear of being fired for speaking out? Something you may want to note here: I have put a good deal of emphasis on the employees within OCPR. The reason is, the people within the communities who enjoy our parks see the employees and interact with OCPR employees. If OCPR employees do not reflect diversity and inclusions and/or are not comfortable with diverse groups, that will have profound impact on the community’s interpretation of our Core Value #1. Community Needs Assessment ETC Institute administered a needs assessment survey for Oakland County during the summer of 2022. ETC Institute mailed a survey packet to a random sample of households in Oakland County. Each survey packet contained a cover letter, a copy of the survey, and a postage-paid return envelope. Residents who received the survey were given the option of returning the survey by mail or completing it on-line. The goal was to obtain completed surveys from at least 1,000 residents. The goal was exceeded with a total of 1,048 residents completing the survey. The overall results for the sample of 1,048 households have a precision of at least +/-3.4% at the 95% level of confidence. The findings report from ETC Institute contains the following: 1. Executive summary 2. Charts showing the overall results of the survey 3. Priority Investment Rating (PIR) that identifies priorities for facilities and programs 4. Benchmarking analysis comparing the County’s results to national results 5. Tabular data showing the overall results for all questions on the survey 6. Open-ended responses 7. A copy of the survey instrument Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 64 Like the last survey done in 2017, the highest-ranking items that people feel are most important include trails, beaches, and farmers markets. This year we added “Natural areas and open space” which was chosen as the 4th most important recreation facility. Dog Parks, playgrounds, campgrounds, and nature centers all still fall within the top 10 most important facilities identified in the survey. Waterparks dropped down slightly, and golf rose slightly, neither enough to be considered a significant change. Indoor aquatic centers are always a high-ranking recreation facility in this survey, even though it is not something provided by Oakland County Parks and Recreation, it demonstrates a community desire for more indoor aquatic recreation. An updated Priority Investment Ranking from the survey is incorporated into Table 4 on page 23, which sorts all OCPR services by Facility or and Service Category. The survey administered to the Parks Commission on systemwide priorities was added as a new question to the 2022 survey. Below is a comparison of the responses from the Parks Commission and the randomized Community Needs Assessment survey and how the various actions ranked. Table 15: Ranking of actions – Parks Commission and Community Needs Assessment responses Parks Commission Rank Community Needs Assessment Rank Actions 7 1 1 Manage freshwater and stormwater resources to protect water quality and reduce flooding 5 8 2 Deliver nature, education, and recreation programs that welcome everyone 16 3 3 Reduce waste by recycling and composting 4 2 4 Maintain roads, parking lots, and other park infrastructure 1 4 5 Provide equitable access to parks and nature 20 18 6 Buy land for new recreational facilities 13 5 7 Plant native trees and forests to improve regional climate resiliency and reduce carbon 2 11 8 Reach out to underserved communities with recreation programs and mobile recreation services 12 10 9 Increase four-season recreation opportunities 3 6 10 Make facilities accessible to persons of all abilities 19 17 11 Develop new recreational facilities and amenities 15 14 12 Renovate existing facilities to be carbon neutral and environmentally sustainable 11 9 13 Make walking, biking, or transit connections with neighborhoods and other parks 14 7 14 Manage natural areas to improve habitat and connectivity for wildlife 18 15 15 Buy land for open space, trails, and the environment 8 13 16 Reach out to local communities with support for parks, trails, and natural resources management 17 20 17 Provide education about and experiences with local history 10 19 18 Identify fiscally unsustainable facilities and assets and remove from service 9 12 19 Invest in the health and wellness of our communities with active outdoor programs 6 16 20 Improve and add features to existing recreational facilities and amenities Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 65 Figure M: Community Needs Assessment question – importance rating of list of actions The Community Needs Assessment final report is provided as Attachment B. (ETC Institute 2022) 10% 7% 12% 9% 4% 12% 14% 5% 4% 9% 5% 7% 2% 2% 2% 4% 2% 3% 1% 1% 27% 27% 31% 26% 18% 22% 23% 18% 18% 20% 18% 19% 11% 12% 9% 12% 8% 10% 6% 4% 39% 39% 29% 36% 45% 33% 30% 40% 41% 34% 37% 32% 36% 34% 35% 28% 32% 27% 32% 22% 25% 27% 28% 30% 33% 34% 34% 37% 38% 38% 40% 43% 51% 52% 54% 56% 58% 60% 61% 73% 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80% 17 Provide education about and experiences with local history 18 Identify fiscally unsustainable facilities and assets and remove from service 6 Buy land for new recreational facilities 11 Develop new recreational facilities and amenities 20 Improve and add features to existing recreational facilities and amenities 15 Buy land for open space, trails, and the environment 12 Renovate existing facilities to be carbon neutral and environmentally sustainable 16 Reach out to local communities with support for parks, trails, and natural resources management 19 Invest in the health and wellness of our communities with active outdoor programs 8 Reach out to underserved communities with recreation programs and mobile recreation services 9 Increase four-season recreation opportunities 13 Make walking, biking, or transit connections with neighborhoods and other parks 2 Deliver nature, education, and recreation programs that welcome everyone 14 Manage natural areas to improve habitat and connectivity for wildlife 10 Make facilities accessible to persons of all abilities 7 Plant native trees and forests to improve regional climate resiliency and reduce carbon 5 Provide equitable access to parks and nature 3 Reduce waste by recycling and composting 4 Maintain roads, parking lots, and other park infrastructure 1 Manage freshwater and stormwater resources to protect water quality and reduce flooding % Very Important % Important % Somewhat Important % Not Important Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 66 Staff Strategic Action Plan Development Over a two-week period, planning staff facilitated a series of Park Action Plan meetings with park supervisors, park staff members, members of the Coordinated Management Team, and other interested staff members. The purpose of the meetings was to benefit from the knowledge and experience of the staff who operate and manage our parks and gather their input for the Recreation Plan and asset management plans. Each 90-minute meeting focused on one park in the system. The agenda for the discussion consisted of: 1. Strengths, Weakness, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) Analysis 2. Strategic Projects and Actions – a discussion of the big issues facing the park and the big projects that may be in the future. 3. Park System Priorities – a discussion of OCPR’s Vision and Core Values and the system-wide priorities and how they relate to each park. These are: a. Accessibility and universal access b. Building management c. Sustainability improvements d. Customer service improvements e. Data collection and reporting 4. Asset Management Projects and Actions – in-depth discussion of the specific facility and asset needs, issues, or projects. This discussion will be integrated with development of our capital improvement program, maintenance management plan, and operations project planning. Healthy Communities Park Improvements Engagement OCPR engaged OHM to conduct public engagement related to the identified Priority Equity Communities and the proposed park improvements at Catalpa Oaks, Red Oaks, and Waterford Oaks. To better understand community parks and recreation needs the eight municipalities’ existing parks and recreation master plans were reviewed and summarized. In total, seven parks and recreation master plans were compared to the scope of work identified by OCPRC for their associated park system. Local stakeholders identified by Oakland County Parks were invited to attend a series of two focus group meetings to guide the park improvement plans. Across the three parks, nearly 30 stakeholders were invited to participate in the discussions. Community members were invited from Oak Park, Southfield, Hazel Park, Madison Heights, Keego Harbor, Pontiac, and Waterford Township. At the first focus group meetings, existing conditions maps for each of the parks were prepared and distributed to meeting attendees, in addition to a second map showing the proposed park improvements and potential uses. The discussions and outcomes of each meeting are described further on page 18. Taken together, the first focus group meeting engaged 26 stakeholders. A public survey, from July 25 to August 5, 2022, collected community feedback on the proposed amenities for each park. Each survey received responses from non-Oakland County residents, but their responses were not weighted in a different manner than Oakland County residents. Across all three parks, 2,438 survey responses were received and reviewed by the planning team. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 67 The second focus group meetings followed this structure: review the key takeaways from focus group meeting #1, present and discuss the survey data (pages 19-21), display the draft conceptual plans, and mark them up with changes proposed by the group. Taken together, the second focus group meetings engaged 17 stakeholders. The final conceptual plans incorporated the feedback from these groups. The OHM Healthy Communities engagement report is provided as Appendix D. (OHM Advisors 2022) Red Oaks Golf Course Survey As part of the discussion about the Healthy Communities Park Improvements plan there was significant discussion around potentially closing Red Oaks Golf Course and converting it to a park including trails, playground areas, native gardens, etc. Initially a survey was put out social media asking people if they’d like to see the golf course remain, or see it converted to a park that could be utilized by more residents. The survey was shared to various groups and often taken multiple times by the same individuals, therefore not providing usable data. In an effort to get more accurate data, staff worked with ETC Institute to survey a statistically significant sample of individuals within the 15-minute drive time for Red Oaks. The majority of respondents (87.6%) supported a plan to convert the golf course. The Oakland County Board of Commissioners decided not to fund this project with ARPA funding, but this data will be utilized for potential future conversations about Red Oaks and other golf courses. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 68 30-Day Public Review Period (November 17 to December 20, 2022) The 30-day public review period was launched on November 17, 2022. The online survey received 391 responses, no paper surveys were completed returned, and 5 people commented by email and 3 by telephone. See Appendix B for complete information on survey responses. November 15, 2022 – web site posting Content and survey link was posted at OaklandCountyParks.com/RecPlan on November 15, 2022, at 3:01 p.m. Minor updates and corrections were made over the next couple weeks. The screen shot on the following shows the version that was posted on November 15 (Version “5120” is seen in the search bar in the Page History screen shot below and on the screen shot on the next page). Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 69 Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 70 November 17, 2022 – social media and e-marketing The Facebook and Instagram posts reached 2,051 people, received 20 reactions (likes, comments, and shares) and 33 people clicked on the survey link. On Twitter, there were 183 impressions and 16 engagements (retweets, likes, comments). The e-marketing message was sent to 25,251 recipients and had an open rate of 32 percent, which is excellent. Industry average is around 14 percent, and OCPR typically average 16-18 percent on programming emails. There were 297 unique clicks to the survey. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 71 November 29, 2022 The news release was sent to 137 news organizations (radio, TV, print and digital) on Nov. 29. C and G Newspapers followed up with an article on December 7. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 72 December 5, 2022 The second Facebook post on the main OCPR page reached 1,735 people, received 15 reactions (likes, comments, and shares) and 21 people clicked on the survey link. On Twitter, there were 388 impressions and 15 engagements (retweets, likes, comments). Facebook messages were sent out to individual pages for the four park where hard copy plans and surveys were available for comment: Addison: Reached 305 people; 2 reactions; and 9 link clicks Independence: Reached 571 people; 5 reactions; and 23 link clicks Red Oaks Nature Center: Reached 217 people; 2 reactions; and 8 link clicks Waterford: Reached 29 people; 0 reactions; and 1 link click Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 73 December 7, 2022 – C & G News article The Oakland County Parks and Recreation Department is asking for public feedback about what residents would like to see from their parks and community programs in the next five years. Photo provided by the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Department Oakland Parks and Rec asking for public input for five-year plan By: Brendan Losinski | C&G Newspapers | Published December 7, 2022 OAKLAND COUNTY — The Oakland County Parks and Recreation Department is asking residents to make their voices heard and share what they would like to see from their local parks and community activities. The department’s five-year recreation plan draft is now online and open for public comment. The plan sets the course of the park system over the next five years, and stakeholder input helps Oakland County Parks and Recreation Department leaders shape the goals and objectives for parks and programs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 74 “This is a process we do every five years,” said Melissa Prowse, the department’s manager of planning and development. “What we are hoping for is people to read through the plan, look at our revised goals and objectives for the next five years, as well as look through the park action plans for any parks that they might have a particular interest in where they may want to provide some input.” Department members said that public feedback is crucial for forming a plan that works for the community and fulfills the wishes of residents. “The survey opened in mid-November, and we have been receiving great feedback so far,” Supervisor of Planning and Resource Development Donna Folland said. “People are passionate about their local parks, and we know how much Oakland County residents rely on their parks for fitness, mental well-being, relaxation and personal recreation. The recreation plan outlines the values and goals that will guide us as a public park system to provide quality, equitable experiences for all.” Public comment is due by Tuesday, Dec. 20. The draft is designed around four core values that the department wants to ensure are followed through with in the final plan. The first is diversity, equity and inclusion. The department wishes to evaluate all actions and decisions through the lens of equity and justice and provide parks and recreation services that feel safe and welcoming to everyone. The second is health and wellness; or ensuring access to spaces and experiences that promote physical, mental and social health. The third is environmental sustainability and natural resources stewardship. This means caring for the natural environment, preserving land and open space for future generations, and meeting current recreation needs without compromising the future and building community resilience to climate change. The final core tenet is fiscal responsibility and organizational excellence. This means implementing the department’s mission with a robust, innovative and diverse parks and recreation organization while grounding decisions in sound fiscal policy. “The four core values in the rec plan have always been, in some shape or form, part of our organization, but we’ve never codified it,” said Prowse. “We thought this was the right time to put it officially in the plan to demonstrate that this is what we value and this is the lens that we will view our plans (through) going forward.” The four values were what the draft was designed around, but Prowse said they need to hear from residents before deciding what the department’s focus will be for the next five years. “Health and wellness is especially important post-pandemic,” she said. “We want people to be able to get out and get active. Environmental advocacy and fiscal responsibility are always important as well.” The Oakland County Parks and Recreation staff stressed the importance of that public feedback. “This is the county residents’ plan. We put it together as a staff and commission, but we want it to reflect the needs and wants of all residents of Oakland County,” said Prowse. “This could be them wanting a new playground or amenity. This could be a new program they would like us to offer. They might have ways we could improve our services or customer service. We want to know what they think about our parks and recreation system.” Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 75 Those interested in contributing their perspectives can do so by completing the online survey at oakgov.com/parks/getinvolved/Pages/recplan.aspx. They also can call the department at (248) 736- 9087 or email them at follandd@oakgov.com. Print copies of the survey and comment cards are available at the Oakland County Parks and Recreation office, located at 2800 Watkins Lake Road in Waterford. In addition to the public comment period, interested people are invited to attend a public hearing for the recreation plan that will be held as part of the Oakland County Parks Commission’s monthly meeting at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 4, also located at 2800 Watkins Lake Road in Waterford. “We’ll have a public hearing on Jan. 4 where people can directly share their feedback,” said Prowse. “Hopefully, the plan will be approved afterward at that meeting, so the plan can then be submitted to the Michigan (Department of Natural Resources). … This will shape what the next five years will look like for parks and recreation in Oakland County.” December 20, 2022 Public comment period was closed Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 76 Public Hearing (January 4, 2022) December 21, 2022 – web site update for Public Hearing Web site was updated with Public Hearing information. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 77 December 21, 2022 – social media The Facebook post reached 904, received 4 reactions (likes, comments, and shares). On Twitter, there were 285 impressions and 8 engagements (retweets, likes, comments). December 21, 2022 – email message The e-marketing message was sent to 25,410 recipients and had an open rate of 31 percent. Industry average is around 14 percent, and OCPR typically averages 16- 18 percent on programming emails. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 78 December 22, 2022 The news release was sent to 139 news organizations (radio, TV, print and digital) on December 22. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 79 December 27, 2022 – social media reminder The Facebook post reached 489, received 3 reactions (likes, comments, and shares). December 29, 2022 – social media reminder A reminder Facebook post reached ___, received __ reactions. On Twitter, there were ___ impressions and ___ engagements. December 29, 2022 – email reminder The followup e-marketing message with a reminder about the Public Hearing was sent to ____ recipients and had an open rate of ___ percent. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 80 This page left intentionally blank Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 81 Strategic Action Plan Vision Our vision inspires us; it is aspirational and declares our intent and direction and states the long-term outcome of our work. Everyone in Oakland County has access to a park, public space, or recreational opportunity to relax, be active, socialize, and connect with nature. Mission Our mission is a concise explanation of what we do and who we do it for. We create and operate accessible, welcoming, and sustainable parks and public spaces, provide recreational and educational programs and opportunities, preserve open space, and steward the environment to help all people be healthier and build resilient, connected communities in Oakland County. Core Values The core values are our highest priorities, deeply held beliefs and fundamental driving forces. They are the lenses through which we plan and evaluate our work as a parks and recreation agency. They are our cultural cornerstones. We will measure the outcomes of our work using Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that relate directly to the Core Values. KPIs are quantifiable measurements compared to realistic and strategic targets. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Ground all actions and decisions in equity and justice and provide parks and recreation services that feel safe and welcoming to everyone. 1. Ensure that park attendance reflects the demographic profile of the surrounding communities. o KPI: Conduct surveys that identify gender, age, race, and ethnicity of park visitors and program participants and compare with U.S. Census data for the surrounding community. o KPI: Engage diverse groups of people, including those whose statistics are not captured by U.S. Census data (e.g., LGBTQ+ persons), and work with them to understand and respond to their recreational needs. 2. Collaborate with partners to identify communities, households, and individuals with needs for equitably provided services (“priority equity communities, households, and individuals”) and ensure that OCPR-sponsored programs in these communities are properly supported and are reaching their intended audience. o KPI: Track attendance at OCPR-sponsored programs within identified priority equity communities. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 82 3. Invest in outreach to priority equity communities and individuals. o KPI: Track percent of budget utilized for priority equity communities, households, and individuals. 4. Decrease gaps in recreation access and improve parks and recreation use by priority equity communities. o KPI: Number of unique transactions and program participants from zip codes of priority equity communities. 5. Ensure that the staff and Parks Commission reflects the racial and ethnic diversity of Oakland County and provide a positive and welcoming work environment. o KPI: Monitor the diversity of the staff and Parks Commission as related to the diversity of Oakland County. o KPI: Track participation in trainings and workshops related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and workplace culture Health and Wellness Increase access to the spaces and experiences that promote physical, mental, and social health for all. 1. Grow and elevate awareness of programs and facilities that enhance wellness and are available for free. a. KPI: Track participation numbers b. KPI: Online and on-site surveys regarding use, satisfaction, and barriers. 2. Promote the county and regional network of trails, and track trail usage and satisfaction in our park trails a. KPI: Miles and types of OCPR trails connected to local, county, and regional trails, non-motorized infrastructure, and transit lines. b. KPI: Trail user counts c. KPI: Online and on-site surveys regarding trail use, satisfaction, and barriers 3. Ensure ease of access into every park and between facilities within the park so people of all ages and abilities have the confidence to be active, social, and connect with their surroundings. a. KPI: ADA compliance for access routes between entrances, parking lots, recreation facilities, and restroom facilities – 100% b. KPI: Track number of universally accessible recreation facilities and equipment in each park. c. KPI: Online survey regarding ease of park access and facility use and barriers Environmental Sustainability and Natural Resources Stewardship Plan, build, and operate our parks and services in a sustainable manner while collaborating with local communities. Care for the natural environment, preserve land and open space for future generations, meet current recreation needs without compromising the future, and build community resilience and adaptation to climate change. 1. Responsibly steward the natural resources within the park system. o KPI: Number of acres being restored to improve biodiversity Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 83 o KPI: Number of acres that are high-quality and are being managed to preserve existing resources 2. Use energy from renewable sources and implement energy efficiency practices. o KPI: Percent of energy consumed from renewable sources o KPI: Percent of energy generated on site via renewable sources o KPI: Track fleet, buildings, and equipment electrification o KPI: Track energy efficiency upgrades and projects 3. Improve water management, such as reducing irrigation, restrooms, and other uses. o KPI: Track and reduce water usage 4. Manage stormwater through design and operational practices to improve regional water quality. o KPI: Track and reduce amount of impervious surface and turf. o KPI: Track and increase green infrastructure o KPI: Monitor and improve the quality of water bodies in our parks 5. Transition purchase of commodities to sustainable products. o KPI: Track and reduce usage of cleaning products, herbicides, promotional items, single use plastics, and transition to sustainable alternatives. 6. Waste management reduce waste, divert into recycling, compost, reduce consumption o KPI: Track and reduce tonnage of waste that goes to landfill o Track recycling composition and rates Fiscal Responsibility and Organizational Excellence Implement our mission with a robust, innovative, and diverse parks and recreation organization and ground our decisions in sound fiscal policy. 1. Provide parks, programs and services that respond to community need a. KPI: Track alignment of services with Community Needs Assessment and targeted public engagement 2. Ensure that facilities with mostly individual benefit meet cost-recovery targets. a. KPI: Track cost-recovery for facilities with 75-100% targeted cost recovery 3. Leverage external funding sources for park and program development – i.e., grants, sponsorships, and donations a. KPI: Track percent of external funding against annually set targets 4. Provide excellent and well-supported customer service a. KPI: Track percent of seasonal staffing goal met annually b. KPI: Track percent of returning seasonal staff annually c. KPI: Track volunteer hours annually d. KPI: Track percent of responses to customer-service inquiries within one business day e. KPI: Track staff certifications relevant to delivery of parks and recreation services f. KPI: Track non-compulsory training participation and sharing Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 84 Strategic Goals and Objectives Our strategic goals are what we want to accomplish in the next five years. They are purpose-driven, long-term, forward-focused, actionable, and measurable. They are a roadmap for the individual objectives and actions that move us forward. Goal 1: Offer Experiences and Places that Make a Difference Experiences in a park or participating in an activity can change the character of your day or have an impact on your lifetime. Offer a wide range of experiences and places throughout the park system and provide diverse programming. A. Provide opportunities to be physically active with diverse places, programs and services for all ages and abilities, for people to be active individually, in groups, or as a guided/unguided experience. B. Create opportunities to gather with other people in informal or organized groups in a comfortable and welcoming setting. C. Provide places for people to relax, recharge, and reconnect with nature and enjoy activities that lower stress levels. D. Provide opportunities for a learning experience to gain new skills and knowledge that people can use in their daily lives. E. Offer opportunities to engage with nature with programs for all ages and abilities, volunteer stewardship, and experiencing interpretive signs and installations. F. Provide spaces for hobbies and sports that align with our core values without duplicating local and regional opportunities. G. Incorporate a wide array of celebrations that reflect the diversity of the county and the local community including access to healthy food and food from other cultures. H. Connect with the rich and storied history of Oakland County parks beginning with Indigenous Peoples with an inclusive approach that reflects multiple perspectives and a variety of themes. I. Create refuges from negative experiences, which may include places to cool off during heat events, safety from weather events related to climate change, and socially distanced recreation during health crises such as the COVID pandemic. Goal 2: Operate Clean, Safe, and Welcoming Parks Great park experiences are only possible because of the people who provide our places, programs, and services. Implement best practices and design standards that support the operation of parks that are equitable, resilient, sustainable, and integrated into the community. A. Engage the park operations and program services staff in both site-specific and organization- wide planning B. Review all parks to identify and remove potential barriers to access and enjoyment. C. Review and update the Americans with Disabilities Act Transition Plan and provide annual progress updates to the Parks Commission. D. Incorporate safety into park design and park upgrades. E. Implement an integrated plan for waste disposal – recycling, composting, litter, trash. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 85 F. Provide access to drinking water – without single-use plastic bottles. G. Provide access to restrooms and phase out permanent use of portable toilets – open existing restrooms with flush toilets; develop standards and design for green restrooms in rural parks H. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from equipment and vehicles – convert to alternative, no emission versions, use no-idle technology, and install electric vehicle charging stations. I. Manage water usage through reduction of watering and water reclamation J. Select and purchase products for park operations that reduce harmful impacts to the environment, minimize necessary use of products that have harmful impacts such as road salts, coal tar sealing. Goal 3: Sustainably Invest in Assets and Infrastructure Invest in assets and infrastructure with regular maintenance, resolution of deferred maintenance, replacement of assets as they come to the end of their lifecycle, or new construction of new assets that create new experiences. A. Update Park Action Plans annually to identify actions to manage assets and assign actions to Capital Improvement Program, Maintenance Management Plan, Natural Resources Management, Park Operations, or Planning and Resource Development. B. Evaluate proposed investments into facilities and services based on fiscal sustainability, alignment with our core values, and the potential for a lasting positive impact for residents. C. Update building standards and processes, conduct an energy audit, and build new and update existing assets to net zero carbon emission standards and to reduce impact on the surrounding environment. D. Integrate alternative energy sources including identification of off-grid buildings in parks. E. Manage stormwater infrastructure effectively and in compliance with regulatory agencies. F. Implement updated waste management practices to include appropriate receptacles for landfill, recycling, and organic waste. Goal 4: Contribute to Thriving and Resilient Communities Work in partnership with local communities, non-profits, and regional planning agencies and be ready to help when gaps in equitable park access are identified. A. Convene local communities and park and recreation agencies on a regular basis to share best practices and seek mutual benefits for parks and recreation in Oakland County. B. Work with partners to identify priority equity communities, households, and individuals based on a data-driven understanding of the characteristics, demographic trends, access, and other needs of diverse communities and households. C. Design and implement a comprehensive recreation programs and outreach to communities with emphasis on creating equitable access. D. Identify gaps in equitable park access and assist priority equity communities, households, and individuals in accessing OCPR parks, programs, and services by increasing local trail and transit connectivity, providing transportation assistance, or offering free or discounted admission. E. Help communities and residents expand the use of natural landscapes to support regional biodiversity and stormwater mitigation. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 86 F. Communicate with the public and communities about OCPR’s environmentally sustainable practices to highlight the sustainability of OCPR park system and provide demonstration projects and examples to emulate. Goal 5: Care for the Land and Natural Environment and Increase Green Infrastructure Conserve land and advance green infrastructure to help mitigate the impacts of climate change and to ensure there are open spaces for future generations. Restore and manage natural communities to preserve biodiversity, protect water and air quality, support robust populations of wildlife, and connect people with high-quality experiences in nature. A. Implement OCPR’s Natural Resource Zones system as the basis for system-wide management decisions. B. Create standards to define and establish Nature Preserve designation for parkland. C. Engage with Indigenous Peoples to learn about traditional/cultural land use and management. D. Expand and manage diverse, high-quality natural communities, habitats, and wildlife corridors including creating refuges and passage for plants and animals, and support climate resilience of our communities. E. Manage the native tree canopy to sustain healthy forests in our parks, improve shade for wildlife and people, and support climate resilience of our communities. F. Protect water quality for aquatic organisms, surrounding wildlife, recreational users, and downstream communities. G. Establish standards and targets for land acquisition that supports preservation, restoration, and green infrastructure. Goal 6: Engage the Entire Organization in the Aspiration of Our Vision At the foundation of our work is a collaborative network of people who recognize that our world is changing, and we need to change with it to remain relevant and best serve our communities and residents. We are ready to take on the challenges of our vision and build a future where everyone “has access to a park or public space where they can relax, be active, socialize, and connect with nature”. A. Employ a workforce that reflects the diversity of Oakland County and the communities we serve. B. Implement hybrid work schedules where possible to enhance staff productivity and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from staff travel. C. Continue the effort to recruit and retain diverse seasonal staff. D. Update purchasing policies and evaluate all contracts through the lens of our Core Values. E. Update Parks Commission approval procedures to delegate lower-level funding decisions to management and to present alternatives based on our Core Values for funding decisions by the Commission. F. Support our commitment to equity and justice with a focused staff position and relevant training and Commission-adopted policies. G. Develop a portfolio of diverse funding sources and attempt to divest funds from petroleum- based and climate change advancing industries. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 87 H. Create one program responsible to coordinate all compliance efforts and to manage the actions of other entities (lessees, easement holders, etc.) on natural parkland. I. Provide training and resources to staff to implement our Core Values J. Update customer service portal and create method for tracking and evaluation Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 88 Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 89 Park Action Plans Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 90 Addison Oaks County Park Description and Background LOCATION: Addison Oaks County Park is a 1,140-acre park located in the northeast corner of Oakland County in Addison and Oakland Townships. The Addison-East portion of the park is 350 acres. Address: o Main unit: 1480 West Romeo Road, Leonard, MI 48367 o East unit: 700 West Romeo Road Township and Range: o Addison Township: T5N, R11E, Sections 33-35 o Oakland Township: T4N, R11E, Section 4 PARK FEATURES: Addison Oaks County Park is a natural oasis where visitors can recreate year-round. Guests can come in for the day, camp under the stars or explore the park’s rich history. Campers can choose from individual sites or group camping areas, yurts, or cabins, with campground recreation activities offered Memorial Day through Labor Day, plus Halloween Boo Bashes in October. Year-round activities include a 20+ mile trail system for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking and winter fat tire biking, boat and kayak launch, disc golf, fishing, geocaching, picnicking and group picnic shelters. Boat, kayak, and bike rentals are available in season. A 2.5-mile connector trail connects the main park to Addison Oaks-East and other nearby recreation areas. The historic Tudor-style Buhl Estate hosts weddings, banquets, receptions, and business meetings, with food service by Oak Management. Installed native wildlife habitat along the shoreline of Adams Lake supports bird, pollinator, turtle, and fish populations. A new boardwalk/deck now spans Adams Lake, allowing direct access from one side of the lake to the other, as well as fishing opportunities. NATURAL RESOURCES: Natural Resources Zones: Park contains Conservation Zone, Natural Resources Recreation Zone, Developed Recreation Zone, and Park User Services Zone. See Zone Map and Natural Resources Inventory. Addison Oaks is part of the Clinton River Watershed and Stony Creek subwatershed. The three primary water bodies on the property- Buhl Lake, Adams Lake and Milkhouse Pond are hydrologically connected and were a former stream/wetland system that were flooded into their current state. Tree stumps can still be found on the bottom of Buhl Lake. Water flows from the surrounding hillsides into the lakes, resulting in unique wetland complexes. The park was likely a combination of black oak barren, shrub swamp, emergent marsh, wet prairie, and mixed conifer swamp prior to the 1800s Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 91 High quality dry-mesic southern forests within the park support many different types of wildlife including diverse salamander populations. Some of the natural community types that can currently be identified, and are being restored, include oak barren remnants, southern wet meadow, prairie fen, and southern hardwood swamp. There are many vernal pools on the property in forested pockets; these pools are monitored annually. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes (EMR), a federally threatened species, utilize much of the park for their life cycle. EMR overwinter in wetlands and move to upland areas in the summer to give birth to live young. PARK HISTORY: Addison Oaks resides on the ancestral, traditional, and contemporary lands of the Anishinaabe, known as the Three Fires Confederacy, comprised of the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi . Evidence of a Native presence on and near the land includes the existence of a village and burial ground on the shores of nearby Lakeville Lake, two significant trails, an ancient embankment and records of projectile points located when fields were plowed. In the 1830s Dennis Snyder and Peter Shoemaker became the first people to purchase the land that became the park. Both families maintained their farmland into the 1920s when it was purchased by Lawrence Buhl for a country estate. In the 1960s it was sold and became the Tudor Hills Gun Club and Game Preserve. OCPR acquired the land when it went into receivership in 1969. The park opened in 1971. Over time additional parcels, including one in Oakland Township, have been added to the park. Grant History Unless otherwise noted, all grant-funded facilities and improvements listed in the table below remain open to the public for the purpose of outdoor recreation. Grant Number Source Year Summary OSA-106 Open Space Grant Program 1966 Acquisition of 700 acres to create a new park 26-01023 R1 Land and Water Conservation Fund, Development 1977 With Groveland Oaks: Development of trailer campground and campsites, water and electrical sites, landscaping, play center, street lighting and gravel drive TF89-002 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, Acquisition 1989 Acquisition of 93 acres BF91-025 Bond Fund, Development 1991 Sewage Lagoon Renovation, Lift Stations (2), Sewer Pipe, Sewage Irrigation TF07-030 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, Development 2007 Development of a 1.7-mile trail Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 92 Grant Number Source Year Summary RP12-406 Recreation Passport, Development 2012 Addison Oaks Park Accessibility Improvements: small boat launch, fishing pier, access route, permit fees Park System Priorities ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL ACCESS: Continue to implement the ADA Transition Plan, which identifies accessibility improvement needs throughout the park; incorporate universal access design principles as new facilities are constructed and improvements to existing facilities are made. BUILDING MANAGEMENT: Maintain an annually updated inventory of building roofs (materials, colors, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) and building equipment (manufacturer information, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) in the park and forecast timeline for upgrades and replacements. Transition building practices, equipment, materials, and supplies to sustainable alternatives to meet sustainability targets and decrease impact on surrounding environments. SUSTAINABILITY IMPROVEMENTS: Invest in the park system to prepare for meeting environmental sustainability targets including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sourcing, or installing renewable energy, electrification of vehicles and equipment, improving water quality and access, reducing water, herbicide and disposable product use, improving stormwater resilience, and reduction and management of waste. CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS: Evaluate all customer-facing components of the park and take actions that improve and modernize customer interactions and make the park welcoming to everyone; include directional signage, monument signage, point-of-sale, contact stations, upgrade from permanently located portable toilets, and for parks with modern restrooms, availability during open hours. DATA COLLECTION AND REPORTING: Manage data within a central repository and improve data collection and analysis through updated staff processes, replacement of equipment, and identification of new methods and sources. Addison Oaks Facility Priorities PROPERTY AGREEMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS: Coordinate all design and new uses with existing property restrictions: DNR grant agreements; USFWS Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake Implementation Plan (EMRIP) ADAMS LAKE LODGE: Adams Lake Lodge is offered as an event rental space. Update restrooms and add air conditioning to enhance marketability. BOARDWALKS: Conduct structural inspections and replace aging boardwalks before they become unsafe and construct new boardwalks to increase accessibility and resolve trail /natural resource conflicts. Use alternative to pressure treated wood over water and incorporate wildlife crossings. BOUNDARIES: Inventory and assess all park fences and determine appropriate materials for delineation and appropriate level of vegetation management. BRIDGES: Inspect bridges every 5 years and repair as indicated by inspection reports. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 93 BUHL ESTATE: The estate has multiple components that are part of an overall design that has its roots in the design of historic English estates that were designed to be informal, yet with carefully composed eye-catching views. See (Campbell 4/29/2014). BUHL ESTATE ALTERNATIVES: Develop master plan to implement a more diverse recreational operating and business model with equitable public access, diverse programming, increased history and nature interpretation, and a fundraising program to help support maintenance of historic structures and landscape. Include alternative contingency plan to divest from facility if needed. Continue to operate the Conference Center as a privately managed banquet center with limited public access and public subsidy of private events. BUHL ESTATE COMPONENTS: One-way drive and site circulation: The one-way entry drive is part of the original estate design. Preservation of the existing site circulation is recommended. Maintenance Building/former stables (1927): The former stables function well as the center for park maintenance. Painting and structural reinforcement of the building’s wood pillars was recently completed. The maintenance yard has had paving and stormwater infrastructure improvements completed. Conference Center/former estate house (1927): The house is used as a conference center with a dedicated caterer. See Buhl Estate Conference Center Alternatives above. Several issues are needing attention: o The appearance of the exterior is important for the marketability of the facility for weddings and other events. Exterior is deteriorating and needs to be repainted. Evaluate need for major restoration. o Stucco is repaired annually o Flat roof liner and asphalt shingles may need repair or replacement o Upstairs storage rooms have damaged walls; make sure problems are not structural and that utilities are shut off o Deck needs replacement of railings and wood around base Pool House (1927): This building is a notable scenic feature, especially from the east side of Adams Lake. There are concerns about this building being a safety hazard, despite signage warning people away and a surrounding split-rail fence. The slate roof is crumbling and could become hazardous. Investment would be required to fully secure and stabilize building. If this is not feasible and the building were to be removed, the timbers are of the same vintage as the estate house and could be used in restoration of house. Milk House (1927): This small building has been restored, is secure, and contributes to the scenic estate landscape. Skating Pond: Part of the original estate landscape. Currently used for fishing, skating is not allowed. Former caretakers house (1928): This house was used as a rental for many years but is now vacant. It will be converted into a new Park Office, with accessible parking and entrance to greet visitors to the park. With the former Park Deputy office removed, the building will be visible from the entrance road that approaches the estate. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 94 Water Tower (1925): The water tower was originally installed for fire suppression at the estate buildings. It is not used and is a familiar landmark to trail users. Consider removal if structural inspection indicate it is deteriorating. Formal Garden: This area appears to be a walled garden in aerial photographs back to 1940. It needs an update, including the front entrance landscaping and entry way materials (brick pavers), which are a trip hazard and must be fixed for safety. Update the site design, incorporating native plants where appropriate, and implement in collaboration with Natural Resources Management. The irrigation system needs repair; evaluate system and configure to only water formal garden and lawn areas; replace and repair components as needed. Former Park Deputy office/former contact station (1990): This was built by OCPR as a contact station when the park first opened and mimics the half-timber style of the estate. It is currently used as an office for the park’s Deputy. Relocation of the Deputy office to the Maintenance Building is proposed. Because this building obscures the view of the estate from the entrance drive, removal of this building is proposed when it is no longer in use. CAMPGROUND AND CABINS – evaluate usage of campsites, cabins and yurts and plan for updates that accommodate modern recreational vehicles and demand for full hook-ups, Wi-Fi, and various sizes of cabins or yurts. Plan for updates to restrooms. Incorporate ADA-compliance and universal access. Cabin lookout docks (proposed): Three lookouts are proposed to increase the attractiveness and rentability of the cabins on Buhl Lake. Area is too shallow and mucky to support boat launch. Natural Resources Management will do feasibility study to recommend locations. Section A Restroom: In good shape with general maintenance and building equipment replacements as indicated by life cycle and condition. Section C Restroom: In good shape with general maintenance and building equipment replacements as indicated by life cycle and condition. Installation of water softener is recommended. Section D Pit Toilets: Replace with sustainable restroom buildings. Section D update: Consider providing campsites for mid-size campers and not just tents and small popups. Winter camping: Consider developing winter camping opportunity, will need to provide year-round open restroom facilities and clean drinking water location. Recreational opportunities for campers: Evaluate need for additional recreational facilities within campground such as a basketball court. Dog Park (proposed): Consider small dog park for use by campers. NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT Natural Areas Stewardship: Protect, restore and enhance unique natural communities and promote biodiversity across the landscape. o MNFI based Natural Community assessments and FQAs to document existing conditions o Surveys for priority invasive species and rare or unique native plants o Treatment and removal of priority invasive species Shrub removals, lake viewsheds, campground o Restoration of priority natural communities and habitats through prescribed burning, native seeding and winter shrub removals. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 95 Restoration of old fields to prairie habitat for wildlife including Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake. Remnant prairie fen Oak-Pine barrens restoration o Installation of no-mow zones, turf conversion, and landscape conversions to native plants Around built infrastructure and in campground Freshwater Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance open water and wetland habitat and associated aquatic organisms. o Water quality assessment of Buhl Lake, Adams Lake, pond, and streams. o Adams Lake and Buhl Lake restoration Wetland edge shrub removal and native planting; improvement of viewshed around lake Vernal pools restoration Improve wetland buffers for water quality o Stormwater infrastructure assessment and monitoring Forestry: Protect, restore, and enhance diverse forest systems and shade trees for recreational users. o Develop forest management plan for long term maintenance of tree diversity o Monitor for forest pests and diseases and provide rapid responses to detections o Tree maintenance and removals, tree planting and re-forestation Campground Buhl estate Playgrounds and pavilions o Development and implementation of debris management plan Wildlife: Protect, restore, and enhance rare and unique native wildlife species and biodiversity. o Survey for threatened, endangered, and special concern species along with priority native and non-native species. o Manage nuisance and non-native wildlife White-Tailed Deer Non-native and nuisance waterfowl control o Restoration of priority habitat for wildlife to increase habitat connectivity. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake habitat improvement NON-RECREATIONAL FEATURES: Cell Tower occupies 0.29 acre including ingress/egress on the west side of the park. Revenue from the tower contributes to the park’s annual operating budget. Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Grants Management Section has confirmed that the cell tower is not considered a conversion and complies with existing grant agreements (MDNR 10/17/2022). PARK ENTRANCES, ROADWAYS AND PARKING: Conference Center paved parking lots are in very poor condition and various unpaved roadways have erosion issues; backups along park road due RVs waiting to us dump station remains an issue: Conference Center parking lots: Improvements or replacement is needed soon; plan projects based on Commission decisions regarding future uses of the Conference Center and calculation of parking needs Campground road: Road is in poor condition with erosion issues and significant loss of surface material. Evaluate and propose potential solutions, and estimated costs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 96 Park road to dump station: Design and estimate costs for realignment of park road to eliminate traffic congestion at dump station Maintenance Drive to Materials Storage: This drive is located east of the Buhl Estate and starts at the northern Conference Center parking lot. Materials (dirt, gravel, etc.) are stored away from public view. Road is in poor condition and not able to support fully loaded truck traffic. PAVILIONS: Move pavilion from former Group Campsites 3/4 to former waterslide location to provide an additional rental opportunity. PLAYGROUNDS: Playgrounds have been replaced and universally accessible. Look at further additions to Adams Lake Playground to enhance the play and sensory experience and increase draw to the park. Consider addition of a spray/mist element. TRAILS: In addition to winter mowing and general trail maintenance, the following priorities are identified: Buhl Lake Loop: Continue with asphalt repairs as needed. Bald Mountain Connector: Complete and implement plan; route will need to shift per US Fish & Wildlife Service review. WATER ACESS: Addison has had the installation of several new water access structures in the past 5 years, including the Adams Lake fishing bridge, Buhl Lake Boathouse, accessible fishing pier and kayak launch. Boathouse: Complete Boathouse with installation of seasonal restroom. Evaluate capacity of sewage lagoon to support additional restroom and feasibility of creating connection to lagoon. Cabin lookout docks (proposed): Three lookouts are proposed to increase the attractiveness and rentability of the cabins on Buhl Lake. Area is too shallow and mucky to support boat launch. Natural Resources Management will do feasibility study to recommend locations. (See also Campgrounds and Cabins). Key Performance Indicators Identification of KPIs specific to this park is under development. See Core Values for the master list of KPIs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 97 Figure N: Park Aerial Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 98 Figure O: Natural Resources Zone Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 99 Figure P: Park Trail Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 100 Figure Q: Campground Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 101 Catalpa Oaks County Park Description and Background LOCATION: Catalpa Oaks County Park is a 24-acre park located in the southeast corner of Oakland County in the City of Southfield. The South Oakland Health Department building is adjacent. Address: 27705 Greenfield Road, Southfield, Michigan 48076 Township and Range: T1N R10E, Sections 13, north ½ of southeast ¼ PARK FEATURES: Once owned by the City of Southfield and operated as a neighborhood park, Oakland County Parks and Recreation acquired Catalpa Oaks in 2007 as the 12th Oakland County Park. Improvements were made and the park was officially dedicated in 2012. Catalpa Oaks preserves 24 acres of green space in Southfield, adjacent to the South Oakland Health Department. The park is home to the Annual Great Marshmallow Drop, a spring event drawing 5,000+ participants who watch 15,000 marshmallows drop from a helicopter and enjoy games and activities. The park teems with activity, thanks to five soccer fields, two baseball fields and two playgrounds, including one universally accessible playscape with swings for all abilities. A pavilion offers picnic table seating for 100 people, and modern restrooms are on site. A new .8-mile aggregate walking trail completed in 2020 loops around the perimeter of the park and includes wheelchair-accessibility from Greenfield Road as well as neighborhood streets. Connector trails off the main loop lead to the fields and the playground /pavilion area. NATURAL RESOURCES: Natural Resources Zones: Park contains Park User Services Zone only. See Natural Resources Inventory. Catalpa Oaks is part of the Clinton River Watershed and the Red Run subwatershed Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 102 The park was likely a mixed hardwood swamp prior to the 1800s Development of Interstate 696 changed the soil and plant community composition of the park significantly. The trees and plants currently on the property were planted in the 20th and 21st centuries Native trees planted in the park by OCPR and the City of Southfield provide refuge for local bird and wildlife populations by providing green space, shelter and food sources PARK HISTORY: Catalpa Oaks resides on the ancestral, traditional, and contemporary lands of the Anishinaabe, known as the Three Fires Confederacy, comprised of the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi. Evidence of a Native presence on and near the land includes the existence of two significant Potawatomi villages, Tonquish and Seginsiwin, which became Reservations following the 1807 Treaty of Detroit. Both were located in Southfield Township. In the 1830s the McClelland and Taylor families became the first people to purchase the land that became the park. Both families were members of the nearby Reformed Presbyterian Church whose congregation is documented as being actively involved in the Underground Railroad. In the 1960s Oakland County purchased what had been the two farms. In 1978 the City of Southfield negotiated an agreement with Oakland County to manage 25 acres of the county property as a city park. In 2007 the park and its management were transferred to OCPR and that same year Catalpa Oaks opened as the 12th park in the OCPR system. Grant History Not applicable Park System Priorities ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL ACCESS: Continue to implement the ADA Transition Plan, which identifies accessibility improvement needs throughout the park; incorporate universal access design principles as new facilities are constructed and improvements to existing facilities are made. BUILDING MANAGEMENT: Maintain an annually updated inventory of building roofs (materials, colors, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) and building equipment (manufacturer information, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) in the park and forecast timeline for upgrades and replacements. Transition building practices, equipment, materials, and supplies to sustainable alternatives to meet sustainability targets and decrease impact on surrounding environments. SUSTAINABILITY IMPROVEMENTS: Invest in the park system to prepare for meeting environmental sustainability targets including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sourcing, or installing renewable energy, electrification of vehicles and equipment, improving water quality and access, reducing water, herbicide and disposable product use, improving stormwater resilience, and reduction and management of waste. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 103 CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS: Evaluate all customer-facing components of the park and take actions that improve and modernize customer interactions and make the park welcoming to everyone; include directional signage, monument signage, point-of-sale, contact stations, upgrade from permanently located portable toilets, and for parks with modern restrooms, availability during open hours. DATA COLLECTION AND REPORTING: Manage data within a central repository and improve data collection and analysis through updated staff processes, replacement of equipment, and identification of new methods and sources. Catalpa Oaks Facility Priorities HEALTHY COMMUNITIES PARK AND OUTDOOR RECREATION INVESTMENT PLAN 19: Increase opportunities for outdoor recreation and quality of facilities to benefit the health and wellness of people living in an area that has been disproportionately impacted by COVID. Focus investment on increasing opportunities for active outdoor recreation with pickle ball and basketball courts and flexible open space for exercise. An accessible plaza with shaded gathering and seating areas will welcome visitors to the park and provide opportunities to socialize and relax. Added trail connectors to city sidewalks will increase pedestrian access to the park. PROPERTY AGREEMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS: High cost of water and sewer is limiting to irrigation and other recreational water uses. As we make improvements at Catalpa that are beneficial to the local community, open a discussion with City of Southfield regarding the potential for an agreement for Catalpa to be billed for water use only. BALL FIELDS – CONVERSION TO OTHER RECREATION: Baseball and softball field were present when park was acquired in 2008. Baseball teams are no longer committed to the space and the fields are mainly used for pick- up games. These fields can be removed; this is the primary area for conversion to other recreational features, e.g., pickle ball, basketball, second pavilion, etc. ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY: We can reduce the Catalpa Oaks’ carbon footprint and provide visible sustainability examples. Explore partnership with DTE for carport solar panels (construct in association with parking lot upgrades). The site is often windy and maybe appropriate for a small wind generator that doubles as an attractive park feature. Revisit pavilion and bathroom building plans that included green roofs on these buildings. Design Plaza with sustainable elements (see Plaza) MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE: Mowing and other maintenance is contracted. The park is not continually staffed. The new storage shed was completed – it houses an electric utility vehicle and various materials, not enough room for mowers. We need to evaluate maintenance and storage needs related to the proposed increase in general park usage. NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT 19 OCPR has requested an American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) appropriation of $15 million from the Oakland County Board of Commissioners to support projects and park improvements outlined in the OCPR’s Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan. Projects must be completed by the end of 2026. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 104 Natural Areas Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance unique natural communities and promote biodiversity across the landscape. o MNFI based Natural Community assessments and FQAs to document existing conditions o Surveys for priority invasive species and rare or unique native plants o Treatment and removal of priority invasive species o Restoration of priority natural communities and habitats through prescribed burning, native seeding, and winter shrub removals. o Installation of no-mow zones, turf conversion, and landscape conversions to native plants Around built infrastructure Freshwater Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance open water and wetland habitat and associated aquatic organisms. o Stormwater infrastructure assessment and monitoring Forestry: Protect, restore, and enhance diverse forest systems and shade trees for recreational users. o Monitor for forest pests and diseases and provide rapid responses to detections o Tree maintenance and removals, tree planting and re-forestation Playground and pavilion o Development and implementation of debris management plan Wildlife: Protect, restore, and enhance rare and unique native wildlife species and biodiversity. o Manage nuisance and non-native wildlife Restoration of priority habitat for wildlife to increase habitat connectivity. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake habitat improvement PARK ENTRANCES, ROADWAYS AND PARKING: Develop a new parking plan that has the requisite number of parking spaces, including accessible and van-accessible, stormwater management, as well as lighting and other safety features. Reduce parking lot along Catalpa Road, renovating reclaimed areas with native plantings or recreation features. Utilize Oakland County Health Division parking lot as main parking lot for the park, improving as needed in cooperation with Oakland County Facilities, Maintenance & Operations. Create accessible entrance into the park on the east side into the proposed Plaza. Identify food truck route and parking area that provides service to the Plaza. Note that on-street parking is not allowed. Revisit entrance signage and consider changes that make it clearer from Greenfield Road that the entrance is on Catalpa Road. PAVILION AND RESTROOM (former concession) BUILDING: Park buildings were constructed in 2012 and have similar design features. The pavilion is frequently rented for group gatherings. The concession building is used for public restrooms (outside entrance), storage, and equipment for irrigation system. Concession window and some equipment are unused but still in place. Change how we reference internally to “Restroom Building”. In both buildings, bird nests in ironwork of overhanging eaves are a problem; resolve bird control problem when the building is painted. Both buildings were constructed to support green roofs, consider installation as a sustainability improvement. Alternatives are identified: Continue to use building as described above. Seek partnerships with soccer organizations to play a larger role in maintaining and investing in the improvement of fields, with reopening the former concessions building providing an excellent opportunity for these organizations to raise money to support field improvements. In this event, alternative storage space may need to be identified. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 105 PAVILION – NEW: Construct a second pavilion with storage for programming and events, as well as rentals. Locate strategically in relation to parking and pathways for access, and to existing pavilion and sports areas to prevent user conflicts. PLAYGROUNDS: Playgrounds were installed in 2012: north area for 1–5-year-old children and south area for 6– 12-year-old children. Improve surface of playgrounds (currently mulch) with poured-in-place surface, which is lower maintenance and provides an accessible surface. Include planning for lifecycle and future replacement of surface. PLAZA: Construct an accessible plaza with shaded gathering and seating areas to create a visual identity for the park, welcome visitors, and provide opportunities to socialize and relax. Locate strategically in relation to parking lot, accessible parking, and food truck area. Look at sustainable options in permeable paving and native vegetation. SPORTS FIELDS – SOCCER: Drainage, grading and irrigation were completed in 2019 for the western 2 fields (C and D). Implementation of project for eastern 2 fields (E and F) are not anticipated because of the high expense of City water and sewerage. When not rented, the fields are used as unprogrammed open space for pick-up games, exercise groups, kite-flying, and other play. Alternatives for the future of soccer usage are identified: Continue to evaluate soccer use, high cost of water, and level of subsidy for rentals and whether it would be preferable to convert to open space for fully subsidized open park use. Seek partnerships with soccer organizations to play a larger role in maintaining and investing in the improvement of fields, with the concessions building providing an excellent opportunity for these organizations to raise money to support field improvements. TRAILS: Aggregate walking trail was completed in 2020 and is well-used. Additional neighborhood connectors are proposed as part of the Healthy Communities project. When planning additional features for adults and seniors (e.g., pickle ball), consider proximity to parking and need for additional accessible routes. Key Performance Indicators Identification of KPIs specific to this park is under development. See Core Values for the master list of KPIs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 106 Figure R: Park Aerial Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 107 Figure S: Park Trail Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 108 Glen Oaks County Park Description and Background LOCATION: Glen Oaks Golf Course is a 122-acre park located in southern Oakland County in Farmington Hills. Address: 30500 13-Mile Road, Farmington Hills, MI 48334 Township and Range: T1N R9E Section 2, SW ¼ PARK FEATURES: Spanning 122 acres, 18-hole, par 70 Glen Oaks Golf Course offers a variety of settings to create a challenging course environment. From streams, sand traps and nearly 24,000 feet of cart paths to a full-service Pro Shop and Grill Room, Glen Oaks is popular with leagues and ideal for outings. The historic stone clubhouse features an elegant banquet facility for 50-400 people with food service by Oak Management. Wedding couples love the formal wedding garden, panoramic view of the golf course from the main banquet room, and Bride’s and Groom’s rooms located on the second floor. NATURAL RESOURCES: Natural Resources Zones: Park contains Natural Resources Recreation Zone, Developed Recreation Zone, and Park User Services Zone. See Zone Map and Natural Resources Inventory. Glen Oaks contains two sections of Pebble Creek, a tributary of the Rouge River. The park was likely primarily a beech-maple forest and black oak barren prior to the 1800s. A portion of the property serves to capture stormwater overflow during high water events. Suburban wildlife (such as coyote, deer, and Canada geese) can be seen using the golf course as a refuge from surrounding residential and commercial development. In the early 2000s Glen Oaks Park Supervisor Skip Roche, now retired, utilized his herding dogs, Chase and Madison, to control the goose population on the golf course. Glen Oaks is certified by the Michigan Turfgrass Environmental Stewardship Program for exceeding requirements to protect natural resources. PARK HISTORY: Glen Oaks resides on the ancestral, traditional, and contemporary lands of the Anishinaabe, known as the Three Fires Confederacy, comprised of the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi. Evidence of a Native presence on and near the land includes the existence of several significant trails in the area including the Shiawassee Trail, the Grand River Trail and an Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 109 unnamed trail that passed just to the west of the park. In 1831 Daniel and James Benjamin became the first people to purchase the land that became the park. In 1923 a private golf club called Glen Oaks was built on the former Benjamin farm. The Clubhouse was designed by Emily Butterfield, the first woman to become a licensed architect in Michigan. Glen Oaks became an Oakland County Park in 1978 when the county purchased the golf club property. In 1986 the Glen Oaks Clubhouse was designated an official Michigan Historic site. Grant History Unless otherwise noted, all grant-funded facilities and improvements listed in the table below remain open to the public for the purpose of outdoor recreation. Grant Number Source Year Summary PA 475 Recreation Bond Fund 1978 Acquisition of Glen Oaks golf course (137.5 acres) Park System Priorities ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL ACCESS: Continue to implement the ADA Transition Plan, which identifies accessibility improvement needs throughout the park; incorporate universal access design principles as new facilities are constructed and improvements to existing facilities are made. BUILDING MANAGEMENT: Maintain an annually updated inventory of building roofs (materials, colors, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) and building equipment (manufacturer information, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) in the park and forecast timeline for upgrades and replacements. Transition building practices, equipment, materials, and supplies to sustainable alternatives to meet sustainability targets and decrease impact on surrounding environments. SUSTAINABILITY IMPROVEMENTS: Invest in the park system to prepare for meeting environmental sustainability targets including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sourcing, or installing renewable energy, electrification of vehicles and equipment, improving water quality and access, reducing water, herbicide, and disposable product use, improving stormwater resilience, and reduction and management of waste. CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS: Evaluate all customer-facing components of the park and take actions that improve and modernize customer interactions and make the park welcoming to everyone; include directional signage, monument signage, point-of-sale, contact stations, upgrade from permanently located portable toilets, and for parks with modern restrooms, availability during open hours. DATA COLLECTION AND REPORTING: Manage data within a central repository and improve data collection and analysis through updated staff processes, replacement of equipment, and identification of new methods and sources. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 110 Glen Oaks Facility Priorities PROPERTY AGREEMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS: Clubhouse is listed as a historic landmark; changes to the building exterior should be coordinated with the State Historic Preservation Office. BOUNDARIES: Inventory and assess all park fences and determine appropriate materials for delineation and appropriate level of vegetation management. Priorities for replacement are the Wedding Garden enclosure fence and the fence between the Clubhouse and Maintenance Building. BRIDGES: Inspect bridges every 5 years and repair as indicated by inspection reports. CLUBHOUSE ALTERNATIVES: Develop master plan to implement a more diverse recreational operating and business model with equitable public access, diverse programming, increased history and nature interpretation, and a fundraising program to help support maintenance of historic structure. Convert Grill Room to in-house operation. Include alternative contingency plan to divest from facility if needed. Continue to operate the Conference Center as a privately managed banquet center with limited public access and public subsidy of private events. Continue operation of Grill Room by private vendor. Improve service when vendor is not on site by having staff provide coffee and snacks to early golfers. CLUBHOUSE ROOF: Slate roof assessment was completed in 2022 and indicates need for replacement of entire roof. Coordinate with the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) regarding replacement that is compliant with historic status. Note that the Addison Oaks Buhl Estate roof was replaced with synthetic slate 10 years ago and it is in good condition and does not detract from the historic appearance of the building. CLUBHOUSE WEDDING GARDEN: Redesign landscape. Update plantings, coordinating native plantings with traditional formal plantings. Update hardscape for appearance and accessibility. Commence annual review of all formal landscapes in park system. GOLF COURSE CART PATHS: Schedule repair and replacement as indicated by condition of pavement. GOLF COURSE IRRIGATION POND AND PEBBLE CREEK: Portions of the golf course provide stormwater retention for the surrounding community during flood events. The irrigation pond is located within the watercourse of Pebble Creek, a tributary of the Rouge River and a regulated drain. Relocation of the pond out of the watercourse is proposed. This would allow the river to be restored to more natural flow conditions and restoration to occur along the streambanks, it would also reduce siltation in the irrigation pond (from upstream sources) and subsequently reduce the need for periodic dredging. Conduct sediment testing prior to any project design to understand full options for project. Follow relocation project with implementation of Pebble Creek restoration and shoreline habitat improvements. Testing of soil sediments in 2012 showed Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons present in all samples, with the Benzo(A)pyrene above the allowable human direct contact criteria. The subsequent dredging project in 2013 was more Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 111 complex and costly than anticipated because of the requirement for contaminated sediments to be removed from the site. GOLF COURSE IRRIGATION SYSTEM: Schedule maintenance of irrigation system and replacement of component parts as indicated by condition and life cycle. GOLF COURSE PIT TOILETS: Replace with sustainable restroom buildings. MAINTENANCE BUILDINGS / CHEMICAL MIXING BUILDING: Replace to comply with regulations and to improve staff working conditions. NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT: Natural Areas Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance unique natural communities and promote biodiversity across the landscape. o MNFI based Natural Community assessments and FQAs to document existing conditions o Surveys for priority invasive species and rare or unique native plants o Treatment and removal of priority invasive species o Restoration of priority natural communities and habitats through prescribed burning, native seeding, and winter shrub removals. o Installation of no-mow zones, turf conversion, and landscape conversions to native plants Around built infrastructure Freshwater Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance open water and wetland habitat and associated aquatic organisms. o Water quality assessment of Pebble Creek o Pebble Creek restoration Wetland edge shrub removal and native planting; improvement of viewshed Improve wetland buffers for water quality o Stormwater infrastructure assessment and monitoring Forestry: Protect, restore, and enhance diverse forest systems and shade trees for recreational users. o Develop forest management plan for long term maintenance of tree diversity o Monitor for forest pests and diseases and provide rapid responses to detections o Tree maintenance and removals, tree planting and re-forestation Golf course o Development and implementation of debris management plan Wildlife: Protect, restore, and enhance rare and unique native wildlife species and biodiversity. o Survey for threatened, endangered, and special concern species along with priority native and non-native species. o Manage nuisance and non-native wildlife White-Tailed Deer Non-native and nuisance waterfowl control o Restoration of priority habitat for wildlife to increase habitat connectivity. SIGNS AND WAYFINDING: Replace main entrance sign to meet brand standards and in compliance with Farmington Hills sign ordinance and historical structures ordinance; electronic sign not needed. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 112 Consider additional interpretive plaques within the Clubhouse with historical information such as the building being designed by Emily Butterfield, the first woman to become a licensed architect in Michigan. Key Performance Indicators Identification of KPIs specific to this park is under development. See Core Values for the master list of KPIs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 113 Figure T: Park Aerial Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 114 Figure U: Natural Resources Zone Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 115 Figure V: Golf Course Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 116 Groveland Oaks County Park Description and Background LOCATION: Groveland Oaks County Park is a 361-acre park located in northwest Oakland County in Groveland Township. Located on Stewart Lake just 1.5 miles east of I-75 in Holly., Address: o Park: 14555 Dixie Highway, Holly, MI 48442 o Maintenance: 5990 Grange Hall Road, Holly, MI Township and Range: T5N R8E, Section 19 E ½ and SE ¼ and Section 20 SW ¼ and NW ¼ PARK FEATURES: Three of the four islands on Stewart Lake offer recreational opportunities. Paradise Island connects both sides of the park via the paved Park Trail Loop and is home to the boathouse (with arcade), boat rental, and pavilion. Cottage Island, featuring two yurts, is linked by trail to the west side of Stewart Lake Mathews Island is linked to the east side of Stewart Lake and offers a picnic pavilion. Honeymoon, or Windmill Island – is no longer accessible except by boat; it previously featured a windmill that was iconic to the former private campground. The paved Park Trail Loop links the concession areas, beach, and islands. Three bridges along the Park Trail Loop connect to Paradise Island, Cottage Island, and Mathews Island. Built in 2006, the one-mile paved Thread Creek Trail runs through the natural area north of the campgrounds. The Wildlife Loop, a mowed grass trail connected to Thread Creek Trail, was created in 2012 through the fields west of the main entrance drive section of Groveland Boulevard. The campground has 267 individual and 13 group sites, as well as eight cabins and four yurts. Campground recreation programs held on weekends are targeted to campers and families. The general recreational area, on the east side of Stewart Lake, serves both day-use visitors and campers. It includes the day-use parking lot, picnic areas, activity pavilion, skate park, playground, basketball courts, volleyball courts, activity stage, gaga ball pit, pedal boats, bike rental and mini-golf, plus an area to launch kayaks. Swimming is available at the beach. There are no lifeguards on duty. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 117 NATURAL RESOURCES: Natural Resources Zones: Park contains Conservation Zone, Natural Resources Recreation Zone, Developed Recreation Zone, and Park User Services Zone. See Zone Map and Natural Resources Inventory. Thread Creek runs from south to north through the park and is part of the Flint River watershed. The former golf course now has prairie fen remnants re-emerging. Prairie fens are globally rare wetlands found in southern Michigan that are fed by groundwater springs and are home to some of our parks’ most unique plants. Fringed gentian, small yellow lady-slipper and shrubby cinquefoil are some of the interesting and unique plants found on the property. The park was likely primarily an oak-hickory forest prior to the 1800s. Groveland Oaks was the first park in Michigan to be certified by the Michigan Turfgrass Environmental Stewardship Program (MTESP) which promotes best practices for stormwater management. PARK HISTORY: Groveland Oaks resides on the ancestral, traditional, and contemporary lands of the Anishinaabe, known as the Three Fires Confederacy, comprised of the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi. Evidence of a Native presence on and near the land includes its location along the Saginaw Trail, one of the most significant trails in Michigan, as well as a series of prehistoric ceremonial mounds that once existed just to the northeast of the park. Over time the land became the farms of the Lennon, Stewart, and Hawley families. In the mid-1940s Dr. Lamar Mathews purchased the former farm lands and developed them into a large working farm of his own. Later he turned his farm into a recreation area called Groveland on the Dixie which offered swimming, camping, picnicking and even a small zoo. In 1968 Dr Mathews sold his land to Oakland County and it was developed into Groveland Oaks County Park. Grant History Unless otherwise noted, all grant-funded facilities and improvements listed in the table below remain open to the public for the purpose of outdoor recreation. Grant Number Source Year Summary OSA-100 Open Space Grant Program, Acquisition 1969 Acquisition of 43 acres to expand park 26-01023 R1 Land and Water Conservation Fund, Development 1977 With Addison Oaks: Development of trailer campground and campsites, water and Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 118 Grant Number Source Year Summary electrical sites, landscaping, play center, street lighting and gravel drive 26-01104 M2 Land and Water Conservation Fund, Development 1980 20 campsites w/ water & electricity, parking & access drive, 2 pedestrian bridges, landscaping 26-01335 Land and Water Conservation Fund, Development 1984 Boat rental, docks & decking, pedestrian bridge, retention wall, landscaping TF1048 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, Acquisition 1985 Acquisition of 165 acres with access to Simpson Lake and Thread Creek TF1046 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, Acquisition 1985 Acquisition of 165 acres 26-01452 Land and Water Conservation Fund, Development 1986 40 campsites w/ water & electricity, roadway lighting, landscaping 26-01499 Land and Water Conservation Fund, Development 1990 Playground equipment, play surfacing, walkways, site furnishings, waterline, landscaping TF14-0066 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, Development 2014 Universally Accessible Fishing Pier at Groveland: fishing pier, pathway, paved parking lot Park System Priorities ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL ACCESS: Continue to implement the ADA Transition Plan, which identifies accessibility improvement needs throughout the park; incorporate universal access design principles as new facilities are constructed and improvements to existing facilities are made. BUILDING MANAGEMENT: Maintain an annually updated inventory of building roofs (materials, colors, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) and building equipment (manufacturer information, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) in the park and forecast timeline for upgrades and replacements. Transition building practices, equipment, materials, and supplies to sustainable alternatives to meet sustainability targets and decrease impact on surrounding environments. SUSTAINABILITY IMPROVEMENTS: Invest in the park system to prepare for meeting environmental sustainability targets including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sourcing, or installing renewable energy, electrification of vehicles and equipment, improving water quality and access, reducing water, herbicide, and disposable product use, improving stormwater resilience, and reduction and management of waste. CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS: Evaluate all customer-facing components of the park and take actions that improve and modernize customer interactions and make the park welcoming to everyone; include directional signage, monument signage, point-of-sale, contact stations, upgrade from permanently located portable toilets, and for parks with modern restrooms, availability during open hours. DATA COLLECTION AND REPORTING: Manage data within a central repository and improve data collection and analysis through updated staff processes, replacement of equipment, and identification of new methods and sources. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 119 Groveland Oaks Facility Priorities COMPLIANCE WITH PROPERTY RESTRICTIONS: Coordinate all design and new uses with existing property restrictions: DNR grant agreements; USFWS Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake Implementation Plan (EMRIP) BOUNDARIES: Replace damaged or deteriorated fences, gates, and other boundary delineation, including golf course nets, based on results of regular staff inspections. Plan boundary delineation with appropriate materials with consideration for wildlife movement and the welcoming appearance of the park. BRIDGES: Structural inspections are conducted every 5 years or more frequently if indicated; annual repairs as indicated by inspection reports. Cottage Island Bridge: Continue to inspect and maintain as indicated. Mathews Island Bridge: Continue to inspect and maintain as indicated. Assess need for replacement. Paradise Island Long Span Bridge: Assess need for replacement. Boat rentals are expected to move off Paradise Island. Paradise Island Short Span Bridge: Continue to inspect and maintain as indicated. Assess need for replacement, tied directly to Paradise Island Long Span Bridge. CAMPGROUND – evaluate usage of campsites, cabins and yurts and plan for updates that accommodate modern recreational vehicles and demand for various sizes of cabins or yurts. Plan for updates to restrooms. Incorporate ADA-compliance and universal access. Pines Restroom: In poor condition. Has been maintained with painting and new countertops. Fixtures are old and tiles in poor condition. Needs ADA update. Section A Restroom: In worse condition than Pines – priority for renovation. Needs ADA update. Section C Restroom: Reconstructed in 2015. In good shape with general maintenance and building equipment replacements as indicated by life cycle and condition. Updates are being made in-house to the laundromat. Yurts: Build cost estimate and schedule for canvas replacement. Determine feasibility of continuing to add yurts. Explore solar-powered yurt concept. CONTACT STATION: Improve staff working conditions and efficiency by improving traffic flow around building, enlarging overhang over customer window, and making it ADA compliant, expanding the building to install year- round bathroom for staff and create more comfortable and better functioning workspace. FORMER GOLF COURSE: Create master plan for former golf course – potentially focused on mountain biking, BMX, pump tracks, with connections to Holly Oaks ORV Park. Evaluate potential for ORV crossing from Groveland Oaks to Holly. Look at potential for siting alternative energy (wind, solar) in this area. MAINTENANCE BUILDINGS AND YARD: Maintenance Building: Bathroom update is needed for good working conditions; garage doors need to be replaced; conduct annual roof repairs as needed Maintenance Carpenter Building: in good condition; conduct annual roof repairs as needed Maintenance Cold Storage Building: in good condition; evaluate roof for replacement Maintenance “Duck House”: in good condition; has metal standing seam roof NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT: Priorities include the following: Natural Areas Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance unique natural communities and promote biodiversity across the landscape. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 120 o MNFI based Natural Community assessments and FQAs to document existing conditions o Surveys for priority invasive species and rare or unique native plants o Treatment and removal of priority invasive species Shrub removals, lake viewsheds, campground o Restoration of priority natural communities and habitats through prescribed burning, native seeding, and winter shrub removals. Restoration of old fields to prairie habitat for wildlife including Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake. Remnant prairie fen o Installation of no-mow zones, turf conversion, and landscape conversions to native plants Around built infrastructure and in campground Freshwater Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance open water and wetland habitat and associated aquatic organisms. o Water quality assessment of Stewart Lake and Thread Creek o Stewart Lake and Thread Creek restoration Wetland edge shrub removal and native planting; improvement of viewshed around lake Vernal pools restoration Improve wetland buffers for water quality o Stormwater infrastructure assessment and monitoring Forestry: Protect, restore, and enhance diverse forest systems and shade trees for recreational users. o Develop forest management plan for long term maintenance of tree diversity o Monitor for forest pests and diseases and provide rapid responses to detections o Tree maintenance and removals, tree planting and re-forestation Campground Playgrounds and pavilions o Development and implementation of debris management plan Wildlife: Protect, restore, and enhance rare and unique native wildlife species and biodiversity. o Survey for threatened, endangered, and special concern species along with priority native and non-native species. o Manage nuisance and non-native wildlife White-Tailed Deer Non-native and nuisance waterfowl control o Restoration of priority habitat for wildlife to increase habitat connectivity. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake habitat improvement PARK ENTRANCES, ROADWAYS AND PARKING: Continue ongoing concrete repairs as needed. Plan Entrance Drive improvements to coincide with construction of Northwest Oakland Interceptor (see Utilities). Evaluate cost and feasibility of paving road from Campground to Maintenance Yard. RECREATION PAVILION: Evaluate for roof and door replacement. PLAYGROUNDS: Three playgrounds are in good condition. Maintain ADA compliant surfaces and structures. Explore adding features and sensory elements to enhance experience. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 121 THREAD CREEK SPILLWAY: At the north end of Stewart Lake is a small dam where Thread Creek enters Stewart Lake. The spillway includes a structure that was in place when the park was acquired in 1968 and has historically been used by families with children as a wading pool. Components are failing: Implement structural repairs to the spillway Evaluate bridge for safety and evaluate access to this structure, which is not ADA-compliant Evaluate culvert under roadway and plan for replacement or a general restructuring of the area Acknowledge the history of the area as changes are made, consider interpretive signage TRAILS: Priorities include the following: Wayfinding: Update wayfinding signs and trail map Asphalt trails: Conduct annual asphalt repairs as needed Proposed new trails: conduct field observations per Trail Standards to evaluate feasibility and impact on natural resources UTILITIES: Priorities include the following: Septic system: Maintain septic field and consider capacity when planning updates to campground utilities. Northwest Oakland Interceptor: Continue to follow planning for proposed Northwest Oakland Interceptor and anticipate cost and feasibility of associated needs for upgraded park utility infrastructure. Plan Entrance Drive improvements to coincide with construction of Interceptor. Solar power: evaluate potential for using mowed field west of contact station for a solar array to provide energy for the campground Generator connection at Park House: Park House shares water supply with Maintenance Building. Install a quick connection for a portable generator to power well pump and ensure Park House has water when there is a power outage. WATER ACCESS: Proposal to move boat rental off Paradise Island to the bike rental area on the northeast side of Stewart Lake and to expand water access with an accessible kayak launch. Paradise Island boathouse and pavilion: Consider alternative use for boathouse, such as private cabin rental with own boat launch; need to resolve lack of restroom; evaluate pavilion rental history Combined boat and bike rentals: Review data and confirm need for continued boat rentals and what types of boats to include, when confirmed evaluate the following: o Identify process for moving docks from island to lake shore o Current bike rental shed will work well for both rentals; evaluate needs for technology and for working conditions for staff o Bike storage shed may need to be expanded Universally accessible kayak launch: Expand opportunities for water access; include access route from paved path Key Performance Indicators Identification of KPIs specific to this park is under development. See Core Values for the master list of KPIs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 122 Figure W: Park Aerial Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 123 Figure X: Natural Resources Zone Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 124 Figure Y: Campground Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 125 Highland Oaks County Park Description and Background LOCATION: Highland Oaks County Park is a 302-acre park located in western Oakland County in Highland Township. A small portion of the park is in Rose Township. Address: 6555 Milford Road, Highland, MI Township and Range: T3N R7E, Sections 2 and 3 and T4N R7E, Section 34 PARK FEATURES: Acquired in 2007, Highland Oaks County Park offers picturesque rolling hills, wetlands, and old pastures. Highland Oaks County Park preserves sensitive habitat while providing recreational experiences in a natural setting. Hikers, geocachers, equestrians, mountain bikers and cross-country skiers enjoy 2.5 miles of multi-purpose trails. The trails are primarily mowed grass with accessible boardwalks spanning wetland areas. Spring Lake, a five-acre kettle lake, features an accessible floating dock and is a popular fishing spot. The park also allows archery deer hunting in season. NATURAL RESOURCES: Natural Resources Zones: Park contains Conservation Zone, Natural Resources Recreation Zone, Developed Recreation Zone, and Park User Services Zone. See Zone Map and Natural Resources Inventory. Highland Oaks is part of both the headwaters of the Shiawassee River Watershed and the Huron River Watershed. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 126 Two creeks flow through the property along with a small lake, often called Spring Lake. An intermittently flooded wetland is located downstream from the lake. The park was likely a combination of mixed conifer swamp, wet prairie, and black oak barren prior to the 1800s. While most of the open areas of the park were historically converted for agricultural use there are remnant prairie plants that can still be found on site including big bluestem, little bluestem, Indian grass, butterfly weed, smooth aster, round-headed bush clover, wild bergamot, northern dewberry and black- eyed Susan. Some of the natural community types that can currently be identified, and are being restored on the property, include southern wet meadow, wet mesic prairie and oak barren remnants. Robust beaver populations on the property result in dams and tree thinning around the lake and wetland. The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake (EMR), a federally threatened species, utilize much of the park for their life cycle. EMR overwinter in wetlands and move to upland areas in the summer to give birth to live young. PARK HISTORY: Highland Oaks resides on the ancestral, traditional, and contemporary lands of the Anishinaabe, known as the Three Fires Confederacy, comprised of the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi. Evidence of a Native presence on and near the land includes its location near the Shiawassee Trail as well as an unnamed trail that crossed near its northeast corner. In addition, the park is both the headwaters of the Shiawassee River Watershed and the Huron River Watershed which served as significant water highways. Over time the land was purchased and farmed by several different people including Jacob Van Valkenburg, Morris Wheeler, and Isaac Doty. Old pastures from these farms are still evident in the park. In the 1870s a railroad, which forms the western boundary of the park, was built through the area. The town of Clyde, just to the southwest of the park, developed as a result. The land that became the park was acquired in 2007 creating 302-acre Highland Oaks County Park. Grant History Unless otherwise noted, all grant-funded facilities and improvements listed in the table below remain open to the public for the purpose of outdoor recreation. Grant Number Source Year Summary TF05-032 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, Acquisition 2005 Acquisition of 260 acres TF10-098 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, Development 2010 Natural Areas Accessibility Improvements: Highland Oaks – Trails, 2 boardwalks and a floating pier (see also Lyon, Red, and Rose Oaks) Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 127 Park System Priorities ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL ACCESS: Continue to implement the ADA Transition Plan, which identifies accessibility improvement needs throughout the park; incorporate universal access design principles as new facilities are constructed and improvements to existing facilities are made. BUILDING MANAGEMENT: Maintain an annually updated inventory of building roofs (materials, colors, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) and building equipment (manufacturer information, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) in the park and forecast timeline for upgrades and replacements. Transition building practices, equipment, materials, and supplies to sustainable alternatives to meet sustainability targets and decrease impact on surrounding environments. SUSTAINABILITY IMPROVEMENTS: Invest in the park system to prepare for meeting environmental sustainability targets including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sourcing, or installing renewable energy, electrification of vehicles and equipment, improving water quality and access, reducing water, herbicide, and disposable product use, improving stormwater resilience, and reduction and management of waste. CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS: Evaluate all customer-facing components of the park and take actions that improve and modernize customer interactions and make the park welcoming to everyone; include directional signage, monument signage, and upgrade from permanently located portable toilets. DATA COLLECTION AND REPORTING: Manage data within a central repository and improve data collection and analysis through updated staff processes, replacement of equipment, and identification of new methods and sources. Highland Oaks Facility Priorities PROPERTY AGREEMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS: Coordinate all design and new uses with existing property restrictions: DNR grant agreements and USFWS Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake Implementation Plan (EMRIP). NATURE PRESERVE: Create standards to define and establish Nature Preserve designation for parkland. Designate this park as a Nature Preserve. BOARDWALKS: Conduct structural inspections and replace aging boardwalks before they become unsafe and construct new boardwalks to increase accessibility and resolve trail /natural resource conflicts. Use alternative to pressure treated wood over water and incorporate wildlife crossings. BOUNDARIES: Replace damaged or deteriorated fences, gates, and other boundary delineation, including golf course nets, based on results of regular staff inspections. Plan boundary delineation with appropriate materials with consideration for wildlife movement and the welcoming appearance of the park. NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT: Natural Areas Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance unique natural communities and promote biodiversity across the landscape. o MNFI based Natural Community assessments and FQAs to document existing conditions o Surveys for priority invasive species and rare or unique native plants o Treatment and removal of priority invasive species o Restoration of priority natural communities and habitats through prescribed burning, native seeding, and winter shrub removals. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 128 Restoration of old fields to prairie habitat for wildlife including Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake. Oak knob preservation Oak savannah restoration Freshwater Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance open water and wetland habitat and associated aquatic organisms. o Water quality assessment of Spring Lake and streams. o Spring Lake restoration Wetland edge shrub removal and native planting; improvement of viewshed around lake Forestry: Protect, restore, and enhance diverse forest systems and shade trees for recreational users. o Develop forest management plan for long term maintenance of tree diversity o Monitor for forest pests and diseases and provide rapid responses to detections o Tree maintenance and removals, tree planting and re-forestation Trails o Development and implementation of debris management plans Wildlife: Protect, restore, and enhance rare and unique native wildlife species and biodiversity. o Survey for threatened, endangered, and special concern species along with priority native and non-native species. o Manage nuisance and non-native wildlife White-Tailed Deer Non-native and nuisance waterfowl control o Restoration of priority habitat for wildlife to increase habitat connectivity. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake habitat improvement TRAILS: Winter trail edge mowing and reroute of trails that impact wetlands and vernal pools in compliance with existing property restrictions. SIGNAGE AND WAYFINDING: Replace trail wayfinding signs and map after rerouting of trails has been completed. Key Performance Indicators Identification of KPIs specific to this park is under development. See Core Values for the master list of KPIs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 129 Figure Z: Park Aerial Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 130 Figure AA: Natural Resources Zone Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 131 Figure BB: Trail Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 132 Holly Oaks ORV Park Description and Background LOCATION: Holly Oaks ORV Park, a 170-acre park located in the northwest Oakland County in Groveland and Holly townships, opened September 17, 2020. The North 60 section opened in 2022. The ORV Park is owned by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (-DNR) and is part of a 240-acre former and current gravel mining area owned by -DNR. OCPR operates the park under an operating agreement with -DNR. Additional acreage will become available for public riding as mining operations are phased out. Address: 13556 Dixie Highway, Holly, Michigan, 48442. The entrance is located at Shields Road. Township and Range: T5N R8E, Section 18 (southwest C) and Section 19 (north ½); T5N R7E, Section 13 (southeast ¼) and Section 24 (northeast ¼) PARK FEATURES: Part of a long-term goal of the Statewide Trail ORV Plan, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), together with Oakland County Parks and Recreation (OCPR), has created an opportunity for legal, public off-road vehicle recreation. Oakland County was selected as a prime area to develop such an opportunity because it has the highest percent of licensed ORVs in the state, but no legal public riding areas, up until now. The park is a joint State-County project, operated by OCPR in partnership with the DNR via a 20-year operating agreement (with a 10-year renewal). Consisting of former and active sand and gravel mines, Holly Oaks welcomes all types of ORVs, including full-size vehicles, side-by-sides, all-terrain vehicles or ATVs, and motorcycles. Approximately 170 acres are open with Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 133 additional acres coming online as mining is completed on the remaining property. The full 240 acres is expected to be operational by 2026. There is a daily entry fee per vehicle and an ORV license and trail permit are required. NATURAL RESOURCES: Natural Resources Zones: Park contains Park User Services Zone only. See Natural Resources Inventory. Holly Oaks has been extensively mined and none of the original natural features can be found on the site. Pooling of water and seed introductions have resulted in small ponds and vegetated areas across the property which are monitored by natural resources management staff. The park was likely a combination of Black Oak Barren and Oak Hickory Forest prior to the 1800s. PARK HISTORY: Holly Oaks resides on the ancestral, traditional, and contemporary lands of the Anishinaabe, known as the Three Fires Confederacy, comprised of the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi. Evidence of a Native presence on and near the land includes its location along the Saginaw Trail, one of the most significant trails in Michigan, a series of ceremonial mounds nearby in Groveland Township and to the north just over the Genesee County border the existence of the Gainey stone tool site where some of the oldest archaeological evidence of Paleo-Indians in Michigan has been found. In the 1830s people began to purchase the land and over time it became the farms of the Ludington, Hadley and Holdridge families. By the 1960s a dramatic change in land use occurred when the area became the center of sand and gravel mining operations. Land use changed once again when OCPR turned this area of former and active sand and gravel mines into an off-road vehicle park which opened in 2020. Grant History Unless otherwise noted, all grant-funded facilities and improvements listed in the table below remain open to the public for the purpose of outdoor recreation. Grant Number Source Year Summary DNR ORV Trail Improvement Fund 2017 Planning/development ($160,000 awarded to DNR) DNR ORV Trail Improvement Fund 2019 Development ($250,000 awarded to DNR)) 21-067 DNR ORV Trail Improvement Fund 2021 Dixie Ledge Parking Lot Development ($199,000) 22- DNR ORV Trail Improvement Fund 2022 Youth Riding and Development Area ($100,000) Park System Priorities ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL ACCESS: Continue to implement the ADA Transition Plan, which identifies accessibility improvement needs throughout the park; incorporate universal access design principles as new facilities are constructed and improvements to existing facilities are made. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 134 SUSTAINABILITY IMPROVEMENTS: Invest in the park system to prepare for meeting environmental sustainability targets including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sourcing, or installing renewable energy, electrification of vehicles and equipment, improving water quality and access, reducing water, herbicide, and disposable product use, improving stormwater resilience, and reduction and management of waste. CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS: Evaluate all customer-facing components of the park and take actions that improve and modernize customer interactions and make the park welcoming to everyone; include directional signage, monument signage, point-of-sale, contact stations, upgrade from permanently located portable toilets, and for parks with modern restrooms, availability during open hours. DATA COLLECTION AND REPORTING: Manage data within a central repository and improve data collection and analysis through updated staff processes, replacement of equipment, and identification of new methods and sources. Holly Oaks Facility Priorities PROPERTY AGREEMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS: Coordinate all design and new uses with existing property restrictions: DNR lease and DNR grant agreements. PARK OPERATIONS VISION: Holly Oaks ORV Park will be fiscally and environmentally sustainable. Operation of the park will be revenue positive and flexible to adapt to fluctuations in ORV use. Park features will be resilient and adapted to the landscape, the climate, and the changing market for ORV experiences. We will effectively manage dust and noise and be an environmentally responsible neighbor in Groveland and Holly townships. We will have a positive economic impact on the community and its businesses. Park will be revenue positive by end of its fifth year of operation (September 2025) per Holly Oaks ORV Park Plan Features, trails, and infrastructure will be resilient and adaptable Noise will be managed through park design and operation Dust will be managed through park design and operation Implement a flexible operation plan that is adjustable based on weather and ticket sales Design and implement storm event protocols for each feature and for entire park Incrementally develop remaining property as mining operations cease Create annual marketing plans that align with OCPR standards BOUNDARIES: Replace damaged or deteriorated fences, gates, and other boundary delineation based on results of regular staff inspections. Plan boundary delineation with appropriate materials with consideration for wildlife movement and the welcoming appearance of the park. Align standards with DNR and MDOT specifications as required. BUILDINGS: Contact station and storage buildings make use of shipping containers and work trailers, which is currently adequate. Continue to evaluate building needs and ensure they meet the needs of the park and expectations of park users. NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT: Freshwater stewardship: Manage artificial water features on site for drainage and recreation; monitor to ensure contamination from vehicles is not an issue; maintain spill response protocols in compliance with Michigan Department of the Environment, Great Lakes and Energy regulations. Holly Oaks ORV Park is Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 135 currently working cooperatively with Mt. Holly during the spring thaw to capture the snow melt water run-off to divert it to Steve's Lake inside the ORV park. This helps replenish the water in the lake and avoids dumping large amounts of water into the small ditching along Dixie Hwy. Natural areas stewardship: Invasive species function as pioneer species in this highly disturbed location. Manage to prevent spread beyond the park. Site receives ditch dirt from the Road Commission of Oakland County, which is a source of invasive species, but concentrates its deposition in a controlled and managed location. Forestry management: Trees in Holly Oaks are mainly pioneer species, primarily cottonwood and black locust. Pioneer species are beneficial to the park because they are fast-growing, adaptable to different soil types and have root systems that withstand flooding, sediment loading and other disturbances. In the mining setbacks there are second/third growth mixed hardwood stands that are prized for creating tight and winding trails through the woods. Evaluate wooded areas to identify areas with oaks and segregate ORV use from oak trees to prevent scraping and risk of spreading Oak wilt. Wildlife management: Promote movement of wildlife through site without being trapped or harmed; evaluate types of wildlife on site (e.g., cliff swallows, raptors, insects) and encourage species that can tolerate or thrive on the site ORV FEATURES: Design and construct additional ORV features that are sustainable (physically, fiscally, and environmentally) and that meet user needs and current trends. Beginner and youth riding area: With the large number of ORV ownership in southern lower Michigan and limited training facilities for beginners and youth, there is a need for to promote the sport to new participants and for a facility to provide driving and safety training. Design and construction of a beginner and youth riding area for the purpose of promoting and training individuals in the sport of Off- Road Vehicle driving. Existing features: Continue to evaluate condition and sustainability of existing features and adjust or replace as indicated. O Replenish sand at The Big Easy New climb features: Consider sponsored signature features that could appear in social media posts and commercial advertisements. Focus on climbs that are stable and require little to no maintenance. They are open to all vehicle types and produce little noise or dust. o Concrete climb concepts include Magna Spires, Lion’s Back, Display Knobs, Oasis Falls (detailed concepts are on file.) o Vegetated climb concepts include Deadwood and Headcase Hill Climb (detailed concepts are on file.) o Other climb concepts include Hollywood Hill (detailed concept on file.) New gathering spots: Consider new gathering spots for users and protection during storm events. Concepts include No Mad Overlook Pavilion (detailed concepts are on file.) New mud features: Mud continues to be an attraction for a certain market segment. Consider the creation of a custom designed sponsored “mud bog” that is more sustainable, reliable, and predictable as a recreational feature. Concepts include Soggy Bottom Bog (detailed concepts are on file.) RESTROOM BUILDING: Upgrade available restrooms from portable toilets to permanent sustainable restroom building, potentially integrated into a future pavilion located near the entrance. Flush toilet trailer is a potential interim solution. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 136 ROADS, PARKING, AND PARK ENTRANCES: Main entrance/exit: The primary access to the park for the public and corporate renters is the Shields Road entrance. We have no restrictions upon entering the parking lot with the current configuration. Stacking has not been a problem. Mt. Holly entrance: Rental agreement with Mt. Holly Ski Resort for their access road and parking lot has been discontinued. Mt. Holly access and parking is still used by special events and coordinated directly between our renters and Mt. Holly. OCPR has maintained a good relationship with Mt. Holly so that overflow parking can still be accommodated. The Ledge parking lot: Continue to monitor parking capacity and maintain barriers to control traffic and guide parking and maintain materials for absorption of runoff, slope stabilization, and sound absorption. Identify and sign accessible parking spaces. Internal roads and circulation within park: We retained all the haul roads from the previous mining operations to serve as internal roads (ORV Routes) most are a full 22’ wide but other some are only one lane (but with bi-directional traffic) Drainage – Dixie Highway: There is continued concern about sheeting of water from the park and across Dixie Highway, which has caused icing on the road. Drainage – Shields Road: Drainage along Shields Road has been improved in cooperation with Road Commission of Oakland County and a new culvert installed under the park driveway entrance. Drainage – internal roads and circulation: Flooding has an issue on many of the haul roads in the Lower Main; North 60 drains well. Most flooding issues have been resolved through the construction of deep side ditches along the haul roads. The goal was to divert and store water for later use in dust control. It had the secondary benefit of providing a lower area that could seasonally flood without disrupting park operations. Yet another benefit has been that when flooded they create amphibious or mud running options, when dry they function like canyons or dry streams out west. Maintenance and emergency access: Maintenance gate access to the park is provided via CMI drive. Emergency drive access through the new 4-acre parcel to create access from Holdridge Road to the northwest corner of the North 60. SIGNS AND WAYFINDING: Maintain park identification signage per brand standards. Internal signage is managed appropriately to the site and usage. Wayfinding signs: High-visibility signs that align with the park trail map are important for safety of drivers. Install at each intersection point. Incorporating salvaged tires into sign base minimizes damage to vehicles if they hit the signs. Trail difficulty ratings. Ratings are based on the three color/shape symbols used by ski resorts. Information kiosks: Construct two information kiosks that display park maps and park notices. Event signs: Develop a variety of promotional signs in the park that can be rented as part of our corporate rentals and sponsored events. These range from billboards (5x8, 5x10, 5x16), to feature signs (5x8), to banners on parking lot wood fences. TRAILS: Access routes: Provide access routes for persons of all abilities from the parking lot to the contact station and to pedestrian viewing spots. Develop protocols to ensure that the asphalt milling surfaces in areas with pedestrian use remain compact and free of rocks, debris, asphalt chunks, and ponded water. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 137 ORV trails: Due to available equipment (tractor and 3-point implements), all trails have a minimum width of 96”. It has not been feasible to segregate trails for smaller vehicles and hand-cutting smaller trails is not feasible. Sliding gates are a solution that has been investigated with limited success. Continue to evaluate the need to segregate smaller vehicles and plan on investment in smaller equipment (for example, ATVs or trail dozers) in the future to address this need. New trail features: Consider new trail features that increase available length of various ORV trail types and experiences and create opportunities for spectators. Concepts include Borderlands, Wonder Wall, Rim Runner, The Dragon expansion, and Rubicon Experience Trail (detailed concepts are on file.) UTILITIES: Current 200-amp service does not meet the needs of the park. Proposed 600-amp service would connect to a series of 6 pedestals and provide enhanced service to a covered pavilion. Investigate grants for solar and wind power pumps to draw water in the park and move it for use in dust control and ORV features. Investigate feasibility of engineered septic/drain system and continue to monitor progress in the development of a municipal water and sewer system. Key Performance Indicators Identification of KPIs specific to this park is under development. See Core Values for the master list of KPIs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 138 Figure CC: Park Aerial Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 139 Figure DD: ORV Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 140 Figure EE: ORV Map North Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 141 Independence Oaks County Park Description and Background LOCATION: Independence Oaks County Park is a 1,286-acre park located in northern Oakland County in Independence Township. The park has two units with separate entrances: the 1,096-acre main unit contains Crooked Lake and Hidden Springs Lake; the 190-acre north unit is the location of Upper Bushman Lake. Address: 9501 Sashabaw Road, Clarkston, MI 48348 Township and Range: T4N R9E, Sections 3, 4, 9, 10, 15, and 16 PARK FEATURES: Independence Oaks County Park is the largest in the parks system, at 1,286 acres. The Wint Nature Center offers interactive exhibits, interpretive programs, and Scout Badge Days. Camp Wilderness, a youth group overnight camping area, features platform tents and a modern bathhouse. The 12+ miles of natural and paved trails feature stands of oak, hickory, and maple trees. It’s not unusual to see walkers, jogger, skaters, bikers, and parent with strollers on the trails year-round. Nearly 10 miles of groomed and marked trails are open during winter to cross-country skiers of all abilities and two miles of paved trails are open exclusively to hikers in winter. Independence Oaks also offers a new archery range, volleyball courts; boat launch (non-motorized boats); and swimming beach. Twin Chimneys Shelter provides a sweeping view of 68-acre Crooked Lake and is popular for outdoor wedding ceremonies and receptions. Independence Oaks-North, which opened in 2011, offers hiking, fishing, picnicking and is also open for archery deer hunting in the fall. Anglers can portage and launch canoes, kayaks, or other non-motorized boats. No vehicular boat launch is provided. NATURAL RESOURCES: Natural Resources Zones: Park contains Conservation Zone, Natural Resources Recreation Zone, Developed Recreation Zone, and Park User Services Zone. See Zone Map and Natural Resources Inventory. Independence Oaks is part of the headwaters of the Clinton River; the Clinton River itself runs through park from Upper Bushman Lake to the south. Crooked Lake is likely a kettle lake that was formed by receding glaciers and is now spring-fed. Crooked Lake Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 142 is 68 acres and flows into the Clinton River at the south end of the lake. Part of the Clinton River, 38-acre Upper Bushman Lake is a designated catch-and-release-only lake, which allows for interesting and diverse fish populations. An old-growth mesic southern forest can be found on the south end of the property where trees are estimated to be between 200-300 years old, one of the few areas in Michigan (and Oakland County) that was not timbered in the 19th and 20th centuries. Hardwood conifer swamp surrounds sections of the Clinton River and is one of the most southerly occurrences of this natural community in Michigan. These areas support species like tamarack, white pine, and cedar along with rare plants such as bog bluegrass, bishop’s cap and small yellow lady’s slipper. A bog on the east side of the property along Sashabaw road is an uncommon sight in southeast Michigan. The ground layer of this bog is made up of sphagnum moss, a thick mat that supports other species such as bog rosemary and large cranberry. The oak forest on the west side of Crooked Lake is a remnant Oak Barren, providing a window into what Oakland County primarily looked like prior to European settlement. Large oak trees are interspersed with open prairie plants. Other interesting natural community types that can currently be identified, and are being restored on the property, include prairie fen, dry mesic southern forest, and southern wet meadow. PARK HISTORY: Independence Oaks resides on the ancestral, traditional, and contemporary lands of the Anishinaabe, known as the Three Fires Confederacy, comprised of the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi. Evidence of a Native presence on and near the land includes its location just south of an important east-west trail, the existence within its borders of the headwaters of the Clinton River, a very significant water highway, and a large collection of projectile points found on the land by a former resident. Beginning in the mid-1830s the land became the farms of several different families including the Bailey, Baldwin and Belitz families. In 1917 much of the land was purchased by Franklin Bushman who used it for recreational purposes. In 1944 it was purchased by the Palmer-Bee Company and much of the land was once again used for farming in addition to cattle raising. In 1960 the land was purchased by Irwin I. Cohn who leased much of it to Glen Acres Hunt Club. Beginning in 1968 OCPR began to purchase the land and with additional acquisitions Independence Oaks, with more than 1200 acres, became the largest park in the OCPR system. Grant History Unless otherwise noted, all grant-funded facilities and improvements listed in the table below remain open to the public for the purpose of outdoor recreation. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 143 Grant Number Source Year Summary 26-00129 Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), Acquisition 1968 Acquisition of 337 acres 26-00230 LWCF, Acquisition 1971 Acquisition of 421 acres with one mile of shoreline on Crooked Lake 26-00502 LWCF, Acquisition 1973 Acquisition of 22.6 acres 26-00514 LWCF, Development 1973 Main park road, 2 entrance ways, contact station, bathhouse/concession building, shelter/restroom at Pine Grove, shelter/restroom at Lakeview, boat launch ramp, beach area, primitive campground, parking – Pine Grove, parking – Lakeview, parking – beach area, utilities, landscaping 26-00749 LWCF, Development 1976 Parking & road - Moraine Knoll; shelter/restrooms & utilities - Moraine Knoll; picnic equipment - Moraine Knoll (23) and Twin Chimneys (13); shelter - Twin Chimneys; boat rental building; piers/docks; landscaping 26-00780 LWCF, Acquisition 1976 Acquisition of 50 acres TF603 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF), Acquisition 1982 Acquisition of 256 acres 26-01259 LWCF, Development 1983 Nature Center, access road and parking, walkways, access bridge, lighting, landscaping BF93-036 Bond Fund, Development 1983 Nature Center expansion to include two classrooms and enlarged exhibit area TF95-052 MNRTF, Development 1995 Addition of restroom at boat house for accessibility TF01-22 MNRTF, Development 2001 Construction of youth camp: septic field, wall, shelters (2), boardwalk, trials, wooden tent platforms, security lighting, restroom/shelter No id# William G. and Myrtle E. Hess Charitable Trust 2002 Development of 3,000 feet of trail No id# William G. and Myrtle E. Hess Charitable Trust 2003 Continued development of youth camp TF04-003 MNRTF, Development 2004 Youth camp pedestrian bridge, trail, boardwalk TF06-199 MNRTF, Acquisition 2006 Acquisition of 188 acres (Independence Oaks -North acquisition) TF13-033 MNRTF, Development 2013 Independence Oaks County Park Universal Access Boat Launch: kayak/canoe boat launch, access route, additional accessible parking spots, permit fees, MNRTF sign Park System Priorities ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL ACCESS: Continue to implement the ADA Transition Plan, which identifies accessibility improvement needs throughout the park; incorporate universal access design principles as new facilities are constructed and improvements to existing facilities are made. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 144 BUILDING MANAGEMENT: Maintain an annually updated inventory of building roofs (materials, colors, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) and building equipment (manufacturer information, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) in the park and forecast timeline for upgrades and replacements. Transition building practices, equipment, materials, and supplies to sustainable alternatives to meet sustainability targets and decrease impact on surrounding environments. SUSTAINABILITY IMPROVEMENTS: Invest in the park system to prepare for meeting environmental sustainability targets including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sourcing, or installing renewable energy, electrification of vehicles and equipment, improving water quality and access, reducing water, herbicide and disposable product use, improving stormwater resilience, and reduction and management of waste. CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS: Evaluate all customer-facing components of the park and take actions that improve and modernize customer interactions and make the park welcoming to everyone; include directional signage, monument signage, point-of-sale, contact stations, upgrade from permanently located portable toilets, and for parks with modern restrooms, availability during open hours. DATA COLLECTION AND REPORTING: Manage data within a central repository and improve data collection and analysis through updated staff processes, replacement of equipment, and identification of new methods and sources. Independence Oaks Facility Priorities PROPERTY AGREEMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS: Coordinate all design and new uses with existing property restrictions: DNR grant agreements and USFWS Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake Implementation Plan (EMRIP). ARCHITECTURAL UPDATE: Evaluate 1970s-era buildings that are original to the park and develop a long-term plan for update and/or replacement; buildings include Contact Station, picnic pavilions and restrooms, Boathouse, and Hidden Springs Beach Concession and Bathhouse. BOARDWALKS: Conduct structural inspections and replace aging boardwalks before they become unsafe and construct new boardwalks to increase accessibility and resolve trail /natural resource conflicts. Use alternative to pressure treated wood over water and incorporate wildlife crossings. BOUNDARIES: Replace damaged or deteriorated fences, gates, and other boundary delineation as needed. Plan boundary delineation with appropriate materials with consideration for wildlife movement and the welcoming appearance of the park. BRIDGES: Inspections of structures such as bridges, docks, dams, and towers are conducted by a qualified engineer to monitor structural integrity and identify potential maintenance and safety issues. Inspections commence 15-25 years after construction and are repeated every 5 years. More frequent inspections, repair and/or replacement will be scheduled based on results of the inspection report. Inspections of infrastructure such as water systems and septic fields are conducted by a qualified professional in accordance with the requirements of the relevant regulatory agency. CAMPGROUND: Upgrade Camp Wilderness restrooms; plan for camping system to replace deteriorated tents Look for ways to increase use of this unique group camping facility, which is currently only utilized about 6 times/year by non-profit youth groups. Consider additional amenities/activities at Camp Wilderness that groups could utilize but that do not require additional OCPR staff. Possibly incorporate a fort-building activity and/or opportunities for learning primitive skills. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 145 HIDDEN SPRINGS BEACH, GAZEBO, CONCESSION AND BATHHOUSE: Depending on results from current study (2022/2023) of beach area and water quality, consider: increasing circulation in swim pond by adding floating pumps; implement accessibility upgrades to beach area; replace old grills and add new grills and ash cans; consider the need to update/replace beach buildings (concession/restroom) from original 1970s structures. LAKEPOINT PAVILION: Continue annual maintenance and inspection of pavilion. MAINTENANCE BUILDINGS AND YARD: Replace garage doors on Maintenance Building. Additional cold storage is needed; add pole barn to Maintenance Building. NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT: Natural Areas Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance unique natural communities and promote biodiversity across the landscape. o MNFI based Natural Community assessments and FQAs to document existing conditions o Surveys for priority invasive species and rare or unique native plants o Treatment and removal of priority invasive species Shrub removals, lake viewsheds Oriental Bittersweet Management o Restoration of priority natural communities and habitats through prescribed burning, native seeding, and winter shrub removals. Restoration of old fields to prairie habitat for wildlife including Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake North Park Scots Pine Removal and Replacement Old Fields Restoration North Prairie Fen Restoration Bog Invasive Shrub Removal o Installation of no-mow zones, turf conversion, and landscape conversions to native plants Around built infrastructure including nature center Freshwater Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance open water and wetland habitat and associated aquatic organisms. o Water quality assessment of Crooked Lake, Upper Bushman Lake and Clinton River, pond, and streams. Fish population study o Crooked Lake, Upper Bushman Lake, and Clinton River restoration Wetland edge shrub removal and native planting; improvement of viewshed around lake Vernal pools restoration Improve wetland buffers for water quality o Stormwater infrastructure assessment and monitoring Forestry: Protect, restore, and enhance diverse forest systems and shade trees for recreational users. o Develop forest management plan for long term maintenance of tree diversity o Monitor for forest pests and diseases and provide rapid responses to detections o Tree maintenance and removals, tree planting and re-forestation Nature center Playgrounds and pavilions o Development and implementation of debris management plan Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 146 Wildlife: Protect, restore, and enhance rare and unique native wildlife species and biodiversity. o Survey for threatened, endangered, and special concern species along with priority native and non-native species. o Manage nuisance and non-native wildlife White-Tailed Deer Non-native and nuisance waterfowl control o Restoration of priority habitat for wildlife to increase habitat connectivity. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake habitat improvement PARK ENTRANCES, ROADWAYS AND PARKING: Repair/replace pavement as needed. PLAYGROUNDS: Replace playgrounds as needed. Consider (for new and existing playgrounds) the addition of communication boards at each playground to encourage a more inclusive play environment. Consider the addition of sensory play pieces at new and existing playgrounds. RESTROOM BUILDINGS: Evaluate all restroom buildings and locations and determine which to keep open year- round. Twin Chimneys restroom has heat, consider for use as year-round restroom. TRAILS: Winter trail edge mowing and reroute of trails that impact wetlands and vernal pools in compliance with existing property restrictions. Crack sealing and repair of asphalt trails. Trail G Habitat Trail: Evaluate the need for two parallel bridges on this trail. Both are in good condition and used but may not be necessary to have two adjacent routes with bridges. Consider part of a larger landscape project around the nature center including the amphitheater and other areas immediately adjacent to the nature center that are heavily utilized. TWIN CHIMNEYS PAVILION, GAZEBO, RESTROOM AND LANDSCAPE: Pavilion roof is leaking, consider sustainable alternatives. UPPER BUSHMAN RECREATIONAL DEVELOPMENT: Create a master plan for the development of the residential house (Manor House) site. Residence is currently used for storage of materials and supplies for carpentry and other volunteer projects. Remove house and restore site for recreational use potentially including pavilion/rental area, seating areas, deck/dock, fishing pier, boat launch, trail connections, etc. Remove both garages on the drive in to the house. Construct new barns/garages for storage of equipment/supplies as needed. Consider options for parking/access to the site from Sashabaw Road. UTILITIES: Replace well pump at Contact Station to provide water to bathroom at Contact Station before it fails (already limited use for irrigation) Boathouse back-up generator WATER ACCESS: Docks on Crooked Lake are being replaced in 2023. See Hidden Springs section – beach and architectural improvements See Upper Bushman Recreational Development Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 147 WINT NATURE CENTER, COHN PAVILION AND LANDSCAPE: Rebuild the front entrance roof (consider with next scheduled roof replacement) – currently a flat roof that has drain that needs frequent cleaning. Consider opportunities for water recapture and incorporating into newly restored native and pollinator gardens. Nature Center gardens being restored in late 2022 early 2023. WOOD BURNING UNIT AND SHED: The wood burning unit at the nature center is not currently being used. While unique and theoretically a sustainable option for heating the building, without trusty crews to regularly split and stack wood, it has been difficult to manage. There are also challenges with the staffing of the nature center and the timing of needed heat. The building cools overnight and often is not warm again until late morning after the heater has been fired up. Consider opportunities to auction or repurpose this equipment. Key Performance Indicators Identification of KPIs specific to this park is under development. See Core Values for the master list of KPIs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 148 Figure FF: Park Aerial Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 149 Figure GG: Natural Resources Zone Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 150 Figure HH: Trail Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 151 Figure II: Trail Map North Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 152 Lyon Oaks County Park Description and Background LOCATION: Lyon Oaks County Park is a 1,041-acre park in southwestern Oakland County in Lyon Township and the City of Wixom. Address: 52221 Pontiac Trail, Wixom, MI 48393 Township and Range: T1N R7E Sections 1 and 12; T1N R8E Sections 6 and 7 PARK FEATURES: Opened in 2002, Lyon Oaks County Park preserves 800 acres of environmentally sensitive wetlands within a 1,041-acre park. Lyon Oaks marks the first park in the system that was created for both day-use and a golf course. The park’s day-use area offers a picnic shelter, playground, and restrooms; volleyball, horseshoes pits, -soccer and cricket fields; and six miles of natural trails for biking, cross-country skiing and on-leash dog walking. Lyon Oaks Dog Park features a 13-acre fenced enclosure with small dog area, benches, shelter with picnic tables, doggie drinking water and field training area. The challenging Arthur Hills-designed 18-hole golf course on 230 acres features an “up north” feel with wide fairways, wetlands, and ponds. A practice facility includes driving range, target greens and sand traps. The grill room provides food service for golfers and outings, and the banquet center is perfect for weddings, banquets, and educational seminars. NATURAL RESOURCES: Natural Resources Zones: Park contains Conservation Zone, Natural Resources Recreation Zone, Developed Recreation Zone, and Park User Services Zone. See Zone Map and Natural Resources Inventory. Lyon Oaks is part of the Huron River Watershed and the Kent Lake subwatershed. While Lyon Oaks is primarily known for its recreational facilities, 800 of the 1000 acres of Lyon Oaks is classified as a wetland. Also, Norton Creek Drain, a tributary of the Huron River, runs through the park. Wetlands on the property extend into the forests which are comprised of forested swamps, dry-mesic southern forests, and mesic southern forests. A 470-acre wetland mitigation project was installed in the fields between the dog park and the forest to the south. This project removed drainage tiles, created a 13-acre wetland, and planted numerous native prairie species. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 153 The park was likely a combination of Oak-Hickory Forest, Shrub Swamp/Emergent Marsh, Beech-Sugar Maple Forest, Mixed Hardwood Swamp, and Wet Prairie prior to the 1800s. PARK HISTORY: Lyon Oaks resides on the ancestral, traditional, and contemporary lands of the Anishinaabe, known as the Three Fires Confederacy, comprised of the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi. Evidence of a Native presence on and near the land includes its location just north of the intersection of two significant trails, the Grand River Trail, and the Pontiac Trail, as well as the existence of two nearby villages, one on the shores of Kent Lake and one where the city of South Lyon is located today. Eventually early settlers moving out of the Detroit area followed the Grand River Trail, which had become a rough wagon road, and purchased farmland along the way. By the late 1830s the trail had also become a stage coach route and the little town of Hicksville, located just southwest of the park, developed as a stage coach stop. By the 1870s the Marlatt, Renwick and Lake families had built houses and begun farms on what would become Lyon Oaks. Between 1992 and 1997 OCPR purchased ten parcels of land equaling more than 1,000 acres and then opened Lyon Oaks County Park in 2002. Grant History Unless otherwise noted, all grant-funded facilities and improvements listed in the table below remain open to the public for the purpose of outdoor recreation. Grant Number Source Year Summary TF89-003 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, Acquisition 1989 Acquisition of 500 acres TF91-026 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, Acquisition 1991 Acquisition of 296 acres TF93-037 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, Acquisition 1993 Acquisition of 188 acres TF96-026 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, Acquisition 1996 Acquisition of 14 acres TF10-098 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, Development 2010 Natural Areas Accessibility Improvements: Lyon Oaks – Boardwalk (see also Highland, Red and Rose Oaks) Park System Priorities ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL ACCESS: Continue to implement the ADA Transition Plan, which identifies accessibility improvement needs throughout the park; incorporate universal access design principles as new facilities are constructed and improvements to existing facilities are made. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 154 BUILDING MANAGEMENT: Maintain an annually updated inventory of building roofs (materials, colors, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) and building equipment (manufacturer information, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) in the park and forecast timeline for upgrades and replacements. Transition building practices, equipment, materials, and supplies to sustainable alternatives to meet sustainability targets and decrease impact on surrounding environments. SUSTAINABILITY IMPROVEMENTS: Invest in the park system to prepare for meeting environmental sustainability targets including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sourcing, or installing renewable energy, electrification of vehicles and equipment, improving water quality and access, reducing water, herbicide, and disposable product use, improving stormwater resilience, and reduction and management of waste. CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS: Evaluate all customer-facing components of the park and take actions that improve and modernize customer interactions and make the park welcoming to everyone; include directional signage, monument signage, point-of-sale, contact stations, upgrade from permanently located portable toilets, and for parks with modern restrooms, availability during open hours. DATA COLLECTION AND REPORTING: Manage data within a central repository and improve data collection and analysis through updated staff processes, replacement of equipment, and identification of new methods and sources. Lyon Oaks Facility Priorities COMPLIANCE WITH PROPERTY RESTRICTIONS: Coordinate all design and new uses with existing property restrictions: DNR grant agreements; USFWS Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake Implementation Plan (EMRIP); MDNR conservation easement; EGLE wetland easement. HEALTHY COMMUNITIES PARK AND OUTDOOR RECREATION INVESTMENT PLAN 20: Increase opportunities for outdoor recreation and quality of facilities to benefit the health and wellness of people living in an area that has 20 OCPR has requested an American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) appropriation of $15 million from the Oakland County Board of Commissioners to support projects and park improvements outlined in the OCPR’s Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan. For Lyon Oaks $200,000 in ARPA funds and $200,000 in OCPR capital improvement funds have been identified. Projects must be completed by the end of 2026. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 155 been disproportionately impacted by COVID. Focus investment on increasing opportunities for active outdoor recreation such as a destination playground, flexible open space for exercise, adult exercise equipment, and trail connectivity to the Huron Valley Trail. BRIDGES: Inventory and schedule structural inspections. EVENT CENTER: Banquet vendor contract ends in 2022. Implement activity center model with rental space for private events, with renters bringing own caterer and liquor license. Put facility improvements on hold until new operating model can meet annual cost recovery targets. DAY USE LAYOUT AND OPERATIONS UPDATE: With the proposed development of new features (playground, restroom, parking expansion), we need to review the overall layout of the day use area, including dog park and sports fields, to determine best locations for new features and look for improvements in vehicle and non- motorized traffic flow, visibility of facilities and trails, and separation of uses. DOG PARK: Engage in park-system wide review of Dog Park Standards and feasibility evaluation of converting to a key fob system with an annual subscription. This could lead to elimination of vehicle permit fees and associated staffing issues, but also may introduce new problems related to expectations of customers. Single- day permits could be generated by a pay station that opens the gate with payment. GOLF COURSE AND DRIVING RANGE: Engage designer to update golf course master plan from original Arthur Hills design to adapt to new information, adjust to trends, and plot the future of the golf course and driving range. Include feasibility of redesigning driving range and adding an indoor training facility. Shorter-term improvements include replacement of boardwalks and replacement of worn flooring in grill shop and pro shop. Relocation of tee box at Hole 14 to improve sight lines, playability, and pace of play will include continue management of Phragmites and conversion to shorter-height native plants. Maintain irrigation systems by scheduling replacement of components as they age out and maintaining clear lines between well and pond. NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT: Natural Areas Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance unique natural communities and promote biodiversity across the landscape. o MNFI based Natural Community assessments and FQAs to document existing conditions o Surveys for priority invasive species and rare or unique native plants o Treatment and removal of priority invasive species Continued management of Phragmites throughout the golf course and management of invasives Prairie and old fields restoration o Restoration of priority natural communities and habitats through prescribed burning, native seeding, and winter shrub removals. Winter trail edge mowing and reroute of trails that impact wetlands and vernal pools o Installation of no-mow zones, turf conversion, and landscape conversions to native plants Around built infrastructure Freshwater Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance open water and wetland habitat and associated aquatic organisms. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 156 o Water quality assessment of Norton Drain and streams o Norton Drain restoration Wetland edge shrub removal and native planting; improvement of viewshed around lake Vernal pools restoration Improve wetland buffers for water quality o Stormwater infrastructure assessment and monitoring Forestry: Protect, restore, and enhance diverse forest systems and shade trees for recreational users. o Develop forest management plan for long term maintenance of tree diversity o Monitor for forest pests and diseases and provide rapid responses to detections o Tree maintenance and removals, tree planting and re-forestation Entrance drive Golf course Dog Park Pavilions o Development and implementation of debris management plan Wildlife: Protect, restore, and enhance rare and unique native wildlife species and biodiversity. o Survey for threatened, endangered, and special concern species along with priority native and non-native species. o Manage nuisance and non-native wildlife White-Tailed Deer Non-native and nuisance waterfowl control o Restoration of priority habitat for wildlife to increase habitat connectivity. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake habitat improvement NON-RECREATIONAL FEATURES: Remove former nature center (modular building). Note existing septic system at site may be usable for other development projects. Relate to Day Use Layout and Operations Update above. PARK ENTRANCES, ROADWAYS AND PARKING: Pavement is in poor condition throughout the park. Replace entrance roads and golf course and conference center parking lots. Due to lower usage, consider reducing the footprint of the conference center parking lot (North Lot) and use of permeable pavement (with plan and schedule to maintain pavement). Consider expansion of parking for soccer fields in existing overflow parking area. Relate to Day Use Layout and Operations Update above. New contact station is in place. Technology resources will be relocated from former nature center to contact station. Staff will be directed to use pavilion restroom once former nature center is removed (see Non-Recreational Features). PAVILIONS: No changes proposed to the existing Woods Edge Pavilion. PLAYGROUNDS: Woods Edge: Retain existing playground at Woods Edge Pavilion as an associated amenity. New: Identify location for new destination playground in proximity to soccer fields and associated with future restroom building; consider adult fitness equipment and flexible open space in same area. Relate to Day Use Layout and Operations Update above. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 157 RESTROOM BUILDINGS: Plan for restroom building that serves sports fields, dog park, and new playground. Eliminate portable toilets. Relate to Day Use Layout and Operations Update above. SPORTS FIELDS – CRICKET: Components are in good shape. Usage is first-come/first-serve or reserved rental, need to revisit operational model for rentals. Relate to Day Use Layout and Operations Update above. SPORTS FIELDS – SOCCER: Tournament play has transitioned to larger private multi-field facilities. Lyon Oaks fields are in high demand for practices and training and are consistently rented. Irrigation system is associated with golf course system and is functioning well. TRAILS: Priorities include the following: Winter trail edge mowing and reroute of trails that impact wetlands and vernal pools in compliance with existing property restrictions. Wayfinding signage and maps have been updated. Trailheads are not clearly visible and need to be called out better. Emphasis connectivity with Huron Valley Trail. Relate to Day Use Layout and Operations Update above. Key Performance Indicators Identification of KPIs specific to this park is under development. See Core Values for the master list of KPIs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 158 Figure JJ: Park Aerial Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 159 Figure KK: Natural Resources Zone Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 160 Figure LL: Park Trail Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 161 Figure MM: Golf Course Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 162 Orion Oaks County Park Description and Background LOCATION: Orion Oaks County Park is a 916-acre park located in northeastern Oakland County in Orion Charter Township. Address: 2301 Clarkston Road, Orion, MI 48362 Township and Range: T4N R10E, Sections 16, 17, 18, 20 and 21 PARK FEATURES: Orion Oaks County Park’s 916 acres feature 10 miles of hiking and mountain bike trails including bridges and boardwalks over wetland areas. Oakland County Parks and Recreation’s first dog park opened at Orion Oaks in 2000. Ranked third in the top 12 dog parks in Michigan according to Rover.com, the popular dog park features a 24-acre enclosed area for off-leash play and a “dog dock” with water access for dogs-only swimming. Lake Sixteen’s 91 acres feature canoe and kayak access as well as fishing docks and an accessible fishing pier where anglers can fish in 10 feet of water. The park offers archery deer hunting in season, in designated hunting zones. Winter activities at the park include cross-country skiing, ice fishing and ice skating. NATURAL RESOURCES: Natural Resources Zones: Park contains Conservation Zone, Natural Resources Recreation Zone, Developed Recreation Zone, and Park User Services Zone. See Zone Map and Natural Resources Inventory. Orion Oaks is part of the headwaters of the Clinton River, and Sashabaw Creek (a tributary to the Clinton River) runs through the park. Orion Oaks’ combination of upland and wetland habitats are crucial for the life cycle of the federally threatened Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake, a reclusive snake that can be found on the property. The park land was likely a combination of conifer swamp, oak savannah, and emergent march prior to the 1800s. Some of the natural community types that can currently be identified, and are being restored on the property, include southern hardwood swamps, oak barren remnants, prairie fens and southern wet meadows. Grassland restoration at this site increases crucial habitat for grassland birds including northern bobwhite, eastern meadowlark, eastern bluebird, bobolink, American woodcock, dickcissel and grasshopper sparrow. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 163 There are a handful of vernal pools on the property in forested pockets that are monitored yearly by natural resources staff. PARK HISTORY: Orion Oaks resides on the ancestral, traditional, and contemporary lands of the Anishinaabe, known as the Three Fires Confederacy, comprised of the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi. Evidence of a Native presence on and near the land includes its location directly west of a north-south trail which intersected with numerous other trails in Orion Township, as well as a series of prehistoric ceremonial mounds that once existed just to the southeast of the park. Most of the eastern part of the land that became Orion Oaks was originally the farm of the Cole family. The land remained in the family until the early 1900s. Most of the western part was originally the farm of the Lomerson family. Their farmstead was located on the north side of the park. Beginning in 1916, William Scripps, son of the founder of the Detroit News and radio station WWJ, began to purchase farms in Orion Township including the Lomerson and Cole farms. Scripps eventually owned about 3,500 acres of land and called his estate Wildwood Farm The 916-acre Orion Oaks County Park was acquired by the OCPR in 1980. It was purchased from the State of Michigan Department of Natural Resources, who had acquired the property with the assistance of the Land and Water Conservation Fund. Grant History Unless otherwise noted, all grant-funded facilities and improvements listed in the table below remain open to the public for the purpose of outdoor recreation. Grant Number Source Year Summary 26-01099 Land and Water Conservation Fund, Acquisition 1980 Acquisition of 916 acres Park System Priorities ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL ACCESS: Continue to implement the ADA Transition Plan, which identifies accessibility improvement needs throughout the park; incorporate universal access design principles as new facilities are constructed and improvements to existing facilities are made. BUILDING MANAGEMENT: Maintain an annually updated inventory of building roofs (materials, colors, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) and building equipment (manufacturer information, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) in the park and forecast timeline for upgrades and replacements. Transition building practices, equipment, materials, and supplies to sustainable alternatives to meet sustainability targets and decrease impact on surrounding environments. SUSTAINABILITY IMPROVEMENTS: Invest in the park system to prepare for meeting environmental sustainability targets including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sourcing, or installing renewable energy, electrification of Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 164 vehicles and equipment, improving water quality and access, reducing water, herbicide, and disposable product use, improving stormwater resilience, and reduction and management of waste. CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS: Evaluate all customer-facing components of the park and take actions that improve and modernize customer interactions and make the park welcoming to everyone; include directional signage, monument signage, point-of-sale, contact stations, upgrade from permanently located portable toilets, and for parks with modern restrooms, availability during open hours. DATA COLLECTION AND REPORTING: Manage data within a central repository and improve data collection and analysis through updated staff processes, replacement of equipment, and identification of new methods and sources. Orion Oaks Facility Priorities PROPERTY AGREEMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS: Coordinate all design and new uses with existing property restrictions: DNR grant agreements and USFWS Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake Implementation Plan (EMRIP). BOUNDARIES: Develop and implement a plan for boundary management at the park. Currently the park is being accessed in several unofficial locations by nearby residents. DOG PARK: Engage in park-system wide review of Dog Park Standards and feasibility evaluation of converting to a key fob system with an annual subscription. This could lead to elimination of vehicle permit fees and associated staffing issues, but also may introduce new problems related to expectations of customers. Single- day permits could be generated by a pay station that opens the gate with payment. Provide more education about rattlesnake conflicts with dogs and greater enforcement regarding off-trail/off- leash dogs. DOG PARK RESTROOM: The length and depth of the water line to the nearest well causes issues with freezing in the winter. Dig a new well closer to the building or bury the line to the existing well deeper. MAINTENANCE YARD AND BUILDINGS: Add cold storage building or addition to existing Maintenance Shed for equipment. Run water and electrical to Maintenance Shed (see Utilities below). NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT: Natural Areas Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance unique natural communities and promote biodiversity across the landscape. o MNFI based Natural Community assessments and FQAs to document existing conditions o Surveys for priority invasive species and rare or unique native plants o Treatment and removal of priority invasive species Lake Sixteen Phragmites removal Lake Sixteen wetland edge shrub removal Oriental bittersweet control o Restoration of priority natural communities and habitats through prescribed burning, native seeding, and winter shrub removals. Restoration of old fields to prairie habitat for wildlife including Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake. Old fields restoration Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 165 o Installation of no-mow zones, turf conversion, and landscape conversions to native plants Around built infrastructure and in campground Freshwater Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance open water and wetland habitat and associated aquatic organisms. o Water quality assessment of Lake Sixteen and streams. Fish Population Study o Lake Sixteen restoration Wetland edge shrub removal and native planting; improvement of viewshed around lake Vernal pools restoration Improve wetland buffers for water quality o Stormwater infrastructure assessment and monitoring Forestry: Protect, restore, and enhance diverse forest systems and shade trees for recreational users. o Develop forest management plan for long term maintenance of tree diversity o Monitor for forest pests and diseases and provide rapid responses to detections o Tree maintenance and removals, tree planting and re-forestation Dog park o Development and implementation of debris management plan Wildlife: Protect, restore, and enhance rare and unique native wildlife species and biodiversity. o Survey for threatened, endangered, and special concern species along with priority native and non-native species. o Manage nuisance and non-native wildlife White-Tailed Deer Non-native and nuisance waterfowl control o Restoration of priority habitat for wildlife to increase habitat connectivity. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake habitat structure installation, log placement in fields in progress PARK ENTRANCES, ROADWAYS AND PARKING: Dog Park parking lot: This lot is heavily used and in poor condition. Entrance pavement repairs have been made to prevent further washouts. Reconfigure entrance and exit and resurface parking lot. Baldwin Road parking lot: Needs to be regraded. RESTROOM BUILDINGS: Replace portable toilets with sustainable restroom buildings with timed automatic locks. SIGNS AND WAYFINDING: Park Identity Signs: Develop separate identities for Dog Park and (proposed) Nature Preserve areas. Comply with brand standards. Trail Wayfinding Signs and Map: Update Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake signs: Update Hunting signs: Update signs. Update map to show hunting separation for Dog Park. TRAILS: Lake 16 Trail: Dead ends at Lake 16. Formerly a dock was the destination, it failed and was removed. Consider creating a new destination, such as a lookout on Lake 16. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 166 Trail D Dragon Loop: Update to accessible trail from Baldwin Road to the Dog Park has not been approved by US Fish & Wildlife (per EMRIP). For approval, we need to identify a conservation benefit, such as closing other trails. Winter trail edge mowing and reroute of trails that impact wetlands and vernal pools in compliance with existing property restrictions. Simplify trail layout, close/stop maintaining cut-through trails and remove from trail map Update wayfinding signage and maps. UTILITIES: Supply water and electricity to Maintenance Shed. Also, will support charging electric vehicles and equipment. Install new well to service the Dog Park, located close to the Dog Park Restroom. Alternatively, bury line deeper to existing well. WATER ACCESS: Lake 16 boat ramp and dock: Maintained by staff. Continue to evaluate for replacement need. Lake 16 dog dock: installed in 2020. Lake 16 fishing pier: Maintained by staff. Continue to evaluate for replacement need. Investigate potential for installation of kayak vending machine (internet connectivity needed). Key Performance Indicators Identification of KPIs specific to this park is under development. See Core Values for the master list of KPIs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 167 Figure NN: Park Aerial Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 168 Figure OO: Natural Resources Zone Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 169 Figure PP: Trail Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 170 Red Oaks County Park Description and Background LOCATION: Red Oaks County Park is a 141-acre park located in southeastern Oakland County in the City of Madison Heights. Address: o Dog Park: 31353 Dequindre o Golf Course: 29600 John R; 248-541-5030 o Nature Center: 30300 Hales; 248-585-0100 o Soccer Complex: 29601 John R; 248-589-2294 (operated by City of Madison Heights) o Waterpark: 1455 East 13-Mile; 248-858-0918 Township and Range: T1N R11E, Sections 1 (SE ¼), 11 (SE ¼), and 12 (N ½) PARK FEATURES: Red Oaks County Park and its five facilities are within three distinct areas separated by major roadways. The 1.6-mile-long park includes a Dog Park and Waterpark on the north side of 13 Mile Road. On the south side of 13 Mile Road is the Golf Course and Nature Center/George Suarez Friendship Woods separated by John R Road from the Youth Soccer Complex. The park is a unique example of repurposing otherwise unusable urban land for recreational use – the Jerry Matthews-designed Red Oaks Golf Course was built atop the George W. Kuhn Drain, a 62-million-gallon underground reservoir and drain system, servicing several surrounding communities. A golf course was a good build option since the surface of the drain could not tolerate substantial weight. Deemed an executive course, Red Oaks offers 9 holes of traditional golf as well as FootGolf. Nestled in a unique 38-acre oasis of rich natural habitat amid the thriving urban Madison Heights area, Red Oaks Nature Center’s 2,400 square-foot log cabin building features seasonal displays and live native animals in a cozy atmosphere. Friendship Woods offers a 1.3-mile paved trail for exploration, including a unique Storybook Trail. Red Oaks Youth Soccer Complex, located across John R Road from the golf course, offers six soccer fields as well as a pavilion, restroom building and a playground. North of 13 Mile Road, Red Oaks Waterpark features a large Wave-Action Pool, spiraling triple-flume waterslides, a 990- foot-long River Ride, and a new (completed in 2021) Family Splash Pad. The parks system’s third dog park opened in 2010 at Red Oaks. This 5.2-acre site, accessible from Dequindre Road, offers four fenced enclosures including one for smaller dogs. AMBASSADOR PARK: Madison Height’s Ambassador Park is a 7-acre park located adjacent to the Red Oaks Golf Course in Madison Heights. It is owned and operated by the City of Madison Heights Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 171 Park Location: 600 E 13 Mile Rd, Madison Heights, MI 48071 Features: a track, play structure, picnic tables, small sled hill, soccer field, tennis courts OCPR Area of Interest: incorporate entire park into Red Oaks with a long-term lease NATURAL RESOURCES: Natural Resources Zones: Park contains Natural Resources Recreation Zone, Developed Recreation Zone, and Park User Services Zone. See Zone Map and Natural Resources Inventory. Red Oaks is in the Clinton River Watershed and a portion of the park is located above the underground George W. Kuhn Drain (formerly Red Run Drain). The wet mesic flatwoods community that covers most of the forested nature center property results in seasonal flooding, including vernal pools. Native and non-native shrubs and trees on the north side of the nature center property provide refuge for local and migrating birds, including rare species such as Kirtland’s Warbler. The park was likely a combination of mixed hardwood swamp, beech-sugar maple forest and wet prairie prior to the 1800s. Native swales have been planted at the dog park and golf course to assist with stormwater runoff and provide habitat for native pollinators. Some of the natural community types that can currently be identified, and are being restored on the property, include wet mesic flatwoods and mesic southern forest. PARK HISTORY: Red Oaks resides on the ancestral, traditional, and contemporary lands of the Anishinaabe, known as the Three Fires Confederacy, comprised of the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi. Evidence of a Native presence on and near the land includes the existence of the Red Run which flowed through the area and was an important waterway, a burial site discovered along the banks of that river and reports of nearby cultivated areas with irrigation ditches which existed before White settlement in the area. Early land purchases included those of George Dawson, Archibald Lamphere and a widow, Elizabeth McBride, who came to the area from Ireland with her five children. The Red Run, a river with several tributaries, ran through the land when these farmers made their purchases beginning in the 1830s. The river is mentioned in many early historical records. However, the river can no longer be seen at Red Oaks because it is now underground. Because of flooding and other issues its south branch was buried in the mid-1930s and the north branch in the late 1960s, becoming part of a storm and sanitary drain system for the fast-growing northern suburbs. In 1974-75 the creation of Red Oaks County Park was enabled by an Oakland County Board of Commissioner’s resolution requesting OCPR to establish a county park on the then Southeastern Oakland County Sewage Disposal System property located between Campbell and Dequindre roads in the Cities of Royal Oak and Madison Heights. Over time the park has become home to a golf course, a nature center, a waterpark, and a dog park. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 172 Grant History Unless otherwise noted, all grant-funded facilities and improvements listed in the table below remain open to the public for the purpose of outdoor recreation. Grant Number Source Year Summary TF10-098 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, Development 2010 Natural Areas Accessibility Improvements: Red Oaks Connector Trail (see also Highland, Lyon, and Rose Oaks) Park System Priorities ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL ACCESS: Continue to implement the Transition Plan, which identifies accessibility improvement needs throughout the park; incorporate universal access design principles as new facilities are constructed and improvements to existing facilities are made. BUILDING MANAGEMENT: Maintain an annually updated inventory of building roofs (materials, colors, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) and building equipment (manufacturer information, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) in the park and forecast timeline for upgrades and replacements. Transition building practices, equipment, materials, and supplies to sustainable alternatives to meet sustainability targets and decrease impact on surrounding environments. SUSTAINABILITY IMPROVEMENTS: Invest in the park system to prepare for meeting environmental sustainability targets including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sourcing, or installing renewable energy, electrification of vehicles and equipment, improving water quality and access, reducing water, herbicide, and disposable product use, improving stormwater resilience, and reduction and management of waste. CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS: Evaluate all customer-facing components of the park and take actions that improve and modernize customer interactions and make the park welcoming to everyone; include directional signage, monument signage, point-of-sale, contact stations, upgrade from permanently located portable toilets, and for parks with modern restrooms, availability during open hours. DATA COLLECTION AND REPORTING: Manage data within a central repository and improve data collection and analysis through updated staff processes, replacement of equipment, and identification of new methods and sources. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 173 Red Oaks Facility Priorities PROPERTY AGREEMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS: Coordinate all design and new uses with existing property restrictions. See Grant History section for grant agreements. George W. Kuhn Drain (GWK) Golf Course lease: 50-year lease – May 1, 2004 – May 1, 2054. GWK Golf Course lease 1st amendment: Executed September 18, 2007; added property GWK Golf Course lease 2nd amendment: Executive March 9, 2011; added property GWK Waterpark lease: 50-year lease – May 1, 2004 – May 1, 2054. GWK Waterpark lease amendment: September 18, 2007; added “overflow parking and dog park” areas City of Madison Heights (CMH) Red Oaks Nature Center lease: 25-year lease originally executed in 2012, was renewed May 3, 2022, and expires December 31, 2046. Desired improvements at the Nature Center may be limited by this agreement and CMH capacity to provide percentage of capital funding required by the agreement. Consider restructuring agreement to allow greater funding by OCPR for capital projects approved by OCPR and CMH. Continue to schedule annual forecast and operations meetings with CMH (generally in January). Discuss with CMH the need to do prescribed burns to effectively manage the Nature Center area natural resources. CMH and GWK license, use and maintenance agreement: Executed May 14, 2007; Soccer Complex. Revisit this agreement to determine the optimal and most cost-effective involvement of OCPR. CMH and OCPR Letter of Intent to negotiate a lease for the operation, maintenance, and improvement of CMH-owned Ambassador Park. The 2003 Baseline Environmental Assessment notes the due care responsibilities of OCPR. OCPR should exercise due care before commencing a project that involves any moving of soil on the Golf Course. The property owner, WRC, should be consulted and a determination made whether further environmental analyses are needed to protect recreational users, park staff, and adjoining neighbors. Additionally, if re- purposing of the Golf Course is considered at some future point, alternative uses appropriate for a site of environmental contamination should be considered. Because of the history of old dump sites along the Red Run Drain, and the industrial history of surrounding areas, this precaution should be maintained throughout the Red Oaks County Park and not just in the areas where known contamination has been documented. See summary environmental history at https://www.oakgov.com/parks/getinvolved/Documents/OCPRRedBaseline.pdf. HEALTHY COMMUNITIES PARK AND OUTDOOR RECREATION INVESTMENT PLAN 21: Increase opportunities for outdoor recreation and quality of facilities to benefit the health and wellness of people living in an area that has been disproportionately impacted by COVID. Initial Proposal Focus – Golf Course Conversion to Open Park: The initial proposal focused on the proposed conversion of golf course to parkland with no entry fee or vehicle permit required (except dog park), with conversion of cart paths to trails that provide a non-motorized connection from John R to 13- Mile Road to Dequindre and multiple neighborhood trail connections. An amendment was approved by the Board of Commissioners removing this proposal from the Healthy Communities Plan. Updated Proposal Focus: The updated focus is on improvements to the Nature Center and Ambassador Park to improve access and quality of experience for community members. Golf course improvements 21 OCPR has requested an American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) appropriation of $15 million from the Oakland County Board of Commissioners to support projects and park improvements outlined in the OCPR’s Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan. Projects must be completed by the end of 2026. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 174 will focus on increasing access, full recovery of operating costs, and piloting Red Oaks Golf Course as a model sustainable golf course. See detail below. AMBASSADOR PARK: Addition of Ambassador Park to Red Oaks provides opportunities with land that is not located over GWK and could support new infrastructure. Major concerns: future of soccer use at the site (and responsibility for soccer if it continues), negotiating maintenance responsibilities, potential increased costs for City water and sewer, and capacity of staff to maintain existing park with additional parkland. Two areas of Ambassador are identified: Tennis courts area: Replace existing tennis courts with pickle ball courts and a green restroom. Open space area: There are two potential concepts for the open space area (both are dependent on soccer moving to another location): o Construct pavilion for events, programs, and rentals; update playground; and install native plantings and trees. o Move dog park to this area; add agility equipment and shade structures. Remove playground and build new nature playground at Nature Center. Research dog parks and other recreation functions in urban areas and noise abatement. ONE PARK: Explore ways to better link facilities together to have an identify as one park with multiple facilities. BOUNDARIES: Inventory and assess all park fences and determine appropriate materials for delineation and appropriate level of vegetation management. At Golf Course, reduce conflicts between golfers with stray golf balls and residential properties bordering the Golf Course. DOG PARK: Engage in park-system wide review of Dog Park Standards and feasibility evaluation of converting to a key fob system with an annual subscription. This could lead to elimination of vehicle permit fees and associated staffing issues, but also may introduce new problems related to expectations of customers. Single- day permits could be generated by a pay station that opens the gate with payment. Consider two alternatives: Continue Dog Park in Current Location. Replace contact station now to relieve working conditions. Replace portable toilets with green restroom. Research synthetic turf. Proceed with conversion of dog run to Waterpark parking Discontinue Dog Park: Repurpose area for Waterpark parking, pole barn for longer-term and cold storage; one-way exit from Waterpark. GOLF COURSE: The shorter 9-hole golf course is ideal for seniors, beginners, and junior golfers, as well as people taking advantage the physical exercise of walking the golf course instead of using a cart. Footgolf is working well. The course has a strong customer base and provides a valued service for golfers in the region as the number of courses open to the public has declined. The Parks Commission has set a long-standing goal for golf facilities to Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 175 achieve financial self-sufficiency. The operating losses experienced at Red Oaks Golf Course in the past have fallen short of the cost recovery objectives set by the Commission. A resurgent interest in golf has resulted in increased revenues and reduced the operating loss for the current year. Elimination of the taxpayer subsidy required to operate this facility is a priority. The following steps have been identified with a goal of achieving long-term financial sustainability at the course, increasing access/use of the course, and reducing environmental impacts: Increase access and use of golf course: o Provide educational opportunities with a teeing area. o Provide lessons at less busy times of day. o Accessible carts and adaptive programming to increase opportunities for persons of all abilities. o Evaluate opportunities for trailway next to golf course; look at existing connectivity and how/if trails would enhance routes. o Evaluate rates and fees and evaluate non-resident rates. Consider how to benefit residents without losing existing non-resident user groups. Reduce city water use for irrigation to conserve water and reduce costs: o WRC flushes the main drain line located below the pond with fresh water. Currently this fresh flush water is lost, but it could be flushed into the pond and used for irrigation. o Retention pond needs to be dredged and enlarged to accommodate flush water. Will need to investigate soil contamination first. o Install pond cover to reduce loss to evaporation. Green infrastructure: o Research industry standards for sustainability of golf courses. o Solar power to charge golf carts and power other parts of golf course. o Change to electric mower. o Look at permeable concrete when we add parking. o Increase no-mow areas; install native plantings Closure of the facility and the conversion of the property to a public park is another alternative for the site that may be considered if the objectives set for the facility are not met and funding is available for the project. A statistical representative survey of residents of the service area of the park (included non-golfers) indicated strong public support for this proposal. A change from the current use may result in improved services that have broader impact in meeting community needs. NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT Natural Areas Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance unique natural communities and promote biodiversity across the landscape. o MNFI based Natural Community assessments and FQAs to document existing conditions o Surveys for priority invasive species and rare or unique native plants o Treatment and removal of priority invasive species Shrub removals o Restoration of priority natural communities and habitats through native seeding and winter shrub removals. o Installation of no-mow zones, turf conversion, and landscape conversions to native plants Around built infrastructure and in waterpark entrance drive Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 176 Freshwater Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance wetland habitat and associated aquatic organisms. o Restoration of wet-mesic flatwoods o Stormwater infrastructure assessment and monitoring Forestry: Protect, restore, and enhance diverse forest systems and shade trees for recreational users. o Develop forest management plan for long term maintenance of tree diversity o Monitor for forest pests and diseases and provide rapid responses to detections o Tree maintenance and removals, tree planting and re-forestation Nature center woods Golf course Dog park Waterpark o Development and implementation of debris management plan Wildlife: Protect, restore, and enhance rare and unique native wildlife species and biodiversity. o Survey for threatened, endangered, and special concern species along with priority native and non-native species. Targeted bird population studies o Manage nuisance and non-native wildlife White-Tailed Deer Non-native and nuisance waterfowl control o Restoration of priority habitat for wildlife to increase habitat connectivity. NATURE CENTER: Focus improvements on increasing and diversifying access to the Nature Center and trails. Resolve limitations caused by inadequate/poor quality parking, pedestrian circulation issues, and lack of restrooms for visitors. Revisit lease agreement with City of Madison Heights to resolve funding limitations (See Property Agreements and Restrictions section). Nature Center Building: Continue to maintain building. There are severe shortages of office and storage space that can only be resolved by expanding resources in other parts of the park. Landscape Update: Complete updates to area immediately surrounding Nature Center. Parking Lot: Revisit 2013 design for parking lot and update to current needs. Include plan for delineating overflow parking lot – consider use of permeable pavers. Identify funding and schedule. Boundary: Work with City to understand boundary location and fenceline ownership and determine the appropriate level of management and who is responsible. Trails: Improve Nature Center trails as park features with more activities and photo opportunities; be cognizant of user groups and their needs at different areas of the trails. Birding Destination: Develop Nature Center as a regional birding destination; understand birders and how/where they use the Nature Center; plan restoration specifically for birding. Nature Education Teaching Pavilion: Construct a universally accessible pavilion with restrooms, storage for programs and events, and closable sides to enable use during inclement weather. Include ADA- compliant access routes. Locate at current tent location. North side on 13-Mile Road: Increase ease of access to Nature Center trails from public sidewalks. Hales Street/Nature Playground: Increase ease of access to Nature Center trails. Consider construction of a nature playground that goes into the woods with the entrance on Hales. Consider locating green restroom nearby. Consider need for additional parking and a buffer to separate the playground from adjacent residential properties. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 177 PARK OFFICES, MAINTENANCE, AND STORAGE: Maintenance building, yard, and parking lot (located at north end of Golf Course) does not meet need for current park operation and entrance is too short for safe entrance and exit of delivery trucks – develop concepts to expand building and redesign yard to meet staffing, work space, equipment storage and traffic flow needs and free up valuable space in the Nature Center. See Dog Park for additional concepts for storage. WATERPARK: Review two waterparks in the OCPR system, Red Oaks and Waterford Oaks waterparks, at the same time and evaluate feasibility of operating and funding capital improvements for the two waterparks. See also Waterford Oaks. Red Oaks Waterpark: Aging infrastructure needs update and modernization if it is to function as a regional waterpark. Additional features need to be those that only require minimal staffing such as waterslides with zero- depth exit. Organizational decision is needed on the future of both waterparks and where investment and resources (such as limited staffing) should be focused. Facility Condition Assessment: Determine condition of existing assets and the cost of maintenance, replacement, or removal. A similar report was completed for Waterford Oaks Waterpark in 2019. Fiscal Sustainability Committee: Review of Assessment and alternatives for the future of the waterparks; development of recommendations to the Parks Commission. Parks Commission: Determination of future operation and development. Key Performance Indicators Identification of KPIs specific to this park is under development. See Core Values for the master list of KPIs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 178 Figure QQ: Park Aerial Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 179 Figure RR: Ambassador Park Aerial Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 180 Figure SS: Natural Resources Zone Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 181 Figure TT: Park Trail Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 182 Figure UU: Golf Course Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 183 Figure VV: Waterpark Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 184 Figure WW: Dog Park Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 185 Rose Oaks County Park Description and Background LOCATION: Rose Oaks County Park is a 640-acre park located in the northwest corner of Oakland County in Rose Township. Address: 10400 Fish Lake Road, Holly, Michigan 48442 Township and Range: T4N R7E, Sections 9, 16, and 21 PARK FEATURES: Several glacial lakes within Rose Oaks provide contrast to the gently rolling open meadows and wooded uplands. This undeveloped park is a favorite of equestrians who explore its five miles of trails including accessible boardwalks and floating docks, which are also shared by hikers, cyclists, geocachers and cross-country skiers. Fishing is permitted; non-motorized boats and electric-motor boats are allowed (carry-in only). The park also offers archery deer hunting in season. NATURAL RESOURCES: Natural Resources Zones: Park contains Conservation Zone, Natural Resources Recreation Zone, Developed Recreation Zone, and Park User Services Zone. See Zone Map and Natural Resources Inventory. Rose Oaks is in the Shiawassee River Watershed and contains the headwaters of Buckhorn Creek, a tributary to the Shiawassee River. There are many lakes, ponds and wetlands at Rose Oaks including Richardson, Big School Lot, Esler and Cogger lakes. The east portion of the park contains 150 acres of a contiguous wetland made up of southern wet meadow, emergent marsh, shrub-carr, and southern swamp. Blanding’s turtle and Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake, respectively a state species of concern and federally threated species are both found at Rose Oaks. High quality wetland and upland habitats support a variety of herptofauna populations within the park. The park was likely a combination of black oak barren, white oak-hickory forest, and wet prairie prior to the 1800s. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 186 Some of the natural community types that can currently be identified, and are being restored, on the property include wet mesic prairie, emergent marsh, tamarack swamp and dry-mesic southern forest. The wet mesic prairie at Rose Oaks is such a prime example of that natural community that it was added to the Michigan Natural Features Inventories’ state- wide database. At the time (2004) there were only nine other examples of this community type in Michigan. A population of northern wild rice, known as Manoomin by the Anishinaabek, grows within Rose Oaks. This plant was, and is, important to Native American communities that used and managed this property long before European settlement. The extensive wetlands on the property support diverse wildlife populations including the often-seen beavers and muskrats. PARK HISTORY: Rose Oaks resides on the ancestral, traditional, and contemporary lands of the Anishinaabe, known as the Three Fires Confederacy, comprised of the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi. Evidence of a Native presence on and near the land includes its location near two significant trails, one on the southern border of the park and one on the eastern border. In addition, a multi-component archaeological site to the northeast shows evidence of occupations occurring over hundreds of years. Over time the land became the farms of the Esler, Mallet, Fillingham and Richardson families. Wheat, corn, and oats were grown on these farms and livestock consisted mainly of sheep. Old fields and foundations of these farms still remain in the park as well as tree rows and rock piles. In the 1990s OCPR purchased these former farms to establish Rose Oaks County Park, a 600-acre park with glacial lakes, gently rolling open meadows and wooded uplands. Grant History Unless otherwise noted, all grant-funded facilities and improvements listed in the table below remain open to the public for the purpose of outdoor recreation. Grant Number Source Year Summary TF91-024 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, Acquisition 1991 Acquisition of 610 acres TF10-098 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, Acquisition 2010 Natural Areas Accessibility Improvements: Rose Oaks – Trails, 4 boardwalks, 2 piers (see also Highland, Lyon and Red Oaks) Park System Priorities ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL ACCESS: Continue to implement the Transition Plan, which identifies accessibility improvement needs throughout the park; incorporate universal access design principles as new facilities are constructed and improvements to existing facilities are made. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 187 SUSTAINABILITY IMPROVEMENTS: Invest in the park system to prepare for meeting environmental sustainability targets including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sourcing, or installing renewable energy, electrification of vehicles and equipment, improving water quality and access, reducing water, herbicide and disposable product use, improving stormwater resilience, and reduction and management of waste. CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS: Evaluate all customer-facing components of the park and take actions that improve and modernize customer interactions and make the park welcoming to everyone; include directional signage, monument signage, point-of-sale, contact stations, upgrade from permanently located portable toilets, and for parks with modern restrooms, availability during open hours. DATA COLLECTION AND REPORTING: Manage data within a central repository and improve data collection and analysis through updated staff processes, replacement of equipment, and identification of new methods and sources. Rose Oaks Facility Priorities PROPERTY AGREEMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS: Coordinate all design and new uses with existing property restrictions: DNR grant agreements and USFWS Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake Implementation Plan (EMRIP). NATURE PRESERVE: Create standards to define and establish Nature Preserve designation for parkland. Designate this park as a Nature Preserve. BOARDWALKS: Conduct structural inspections and replace aging boardwalks before they become unsafe and construct new boardwalks to increase accessibility and resolve trail /natural resource conflicts. Use alternative to pressure treated wood over water and incorporate wildlife crossings. BOUNDARIES: Replace damaged or deteriorated fences, gates, and other boundary delineation based on results of regular staff inspections. Plan boundary delineation with appropriate materials with consideration for wildlife movement and the welcoming appearance of the park. NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT: Natural Areas Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance unique natural communities and promote biodiversity across the landscape. o MNFI based Natural Community assessments and FQAs to document existing conditions o Surveys for priority invasive species and rare or unique native plants o Treatment and removal of priority invasive species o Restoration of priority natural communities and habitats through prescribed burning, native seeding, and winter shrub removals. Eastern old fields restoration Scots pine removal and restoration South end restoration Prairie fen restoration Invasive black locust clone removal and restoration o Holly Schools property restoration Freshwater Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance open water and wetland habitat and associated aquatic organisms. o Water quality assessment of Richardson, Esler, Big School Lot and other lakes and ponds o Richardson, Esler, Big School Lot and other lakes and ponds Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 188 Wetland edge shrub removal and native planting; improvement of viewshed around lake Vernal pools restoration Improve wetland buffers for water quality Forestry: Protect, restore, and enhance diverse forest systems and shade trees for recreational users. o Develop forest management plan for long term maintenance of tree diversity o Monitor for forest pests and diseases and provide rapid responses to detections o Tree maintenance and removals, tree planting and re-forestation Wildlife: Protect, restore, and enhance rare and unique native wildlife species and biodiversity. o Survey for threatened, endangered, and special concern species along with priority native and non-native species. o Manage nuisance and non-native wildlife White-Tailed Deer Non-native and nuisance waterfowl control o Restoration of priority habitat for wildlife to increase habitat connectivity. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake habitat improvement TRAILS: Winter trail edge mowing and reroute of trails that impact wetlands and vernal pools in compliance with existing property restrictions. SIGNAGE AND WAYFINDING: Replace trail wayfinding signs and map after rerouting of trails has been completed. Key Performance Indicators Identification of KPIs specific to this park is under development. See Core Values for the master list of KPIs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 189 Figure XX: Park Aerial Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 190 Figure YY: Natural Resources Zone Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 191 Figure ZZ: Trail Map Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 192 Rose Oaks County Park – Water Road Description and Background LOCATION: The 33-acre Water Road property was donated to OCPR in 2021 and is protected by a conservation easement held by the Michigan Nature Association (MNA). It is managed in conjunction with Highland Oaks and Rose Oaks. Parcel: 06-27-377-001 PARK FEATURES: The park is undeveloped and public access has not yet been established. It will be included in OCPR’s new Nature Preserve designation. Park development will be minimal: one hiking trail loop, a viewing platform for visitors to enjoy the view overlooking MNA’s Big Valley Preserve. NATURAL RESOURCES: Natural Resources Zones: under development Detailed inventory is under development PARK HISTORY: under development Native history under development. Under development. In the 2021, Kurt and Maura Jung donated the Water Road property to OCPR to manage the natural resources in perpetuity and to open it for enjoyment by the public. Grant History Not applicable Park System Priorities ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL ACCESS: Continue to implement the Transition Plan, which identifies accessibility improvement needs throughout the park; incorporate universal access design principles as new facilities are constructed and improvements to existing facilities are made. SUSTAINABILITY IMPROVEMENTS: Invest in the park system to prepare for meeting environmental sustainability targets including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sourcing, or installing renewable energy, electrification of vehicles and equipment, improving water quality and access, reducing water, herbicide and disposable product use, improving stormwater resilience, and reduction and management of waste. CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS: Evaluate all customer-facing components of the park and take actions that improve and modernize customer interactions and make the park welcoming to everyone; include directional signage, monument signage, point-of-sale, contact stations, upgrade from permanently located portable toilets, and for parks with modern restrooms, availability during open hours. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 193 DATA COLLECTION AND REPORTING: Manage data within a central repository and improve data collection and analysis through updated staff processes, replacement of equipment, and identification of new methods and sources. Rose Oaks – Water Road Facility Priorities PROPERTY AGREEMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS: Coordinate all design and new uses with the Conservation Easement. NATURE PRESERVE: Create standards to define and establish Nature Preserve designation for parkland. Designate this park as a Nature Preserve. BOARDWALKS AND OVERLOOK PLATFORM: Construct viewing platform that overlooks Big Valley Preserve, sited and constructed in compliance with Conservation Easement. Conduct structural inspections and replace aging boardwalks before they become unsafe and construct new boardwalks to increase accessibility and resolve trail /natural resource conflicts. Use alternative to pressure treated wood over water and incorporate wildlife crossings. BOUNDARIES: Replace damaged or deteriorated fences, gates, and other boundary delineation based on results of regular staff inspections. Plan boundary delineation with appropriate materials with consideration for wildlife movement and the welcoming appearance of the park. NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT: Natural Areas Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance unique natural communities and promote biodiversity across the landscape. o MNFI based Natural Community assessments and FQAs to document existing conditions o Surveys for priority invasive species and rare or unique native plants o Treatment and removal of priority invasive species Swallowwort spp. o Restoration of priority natural communities and habitats through prescribed burning, native seeding, and winter shrub removals. Restoration of old fields to prairie habitat for wildlife including Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake. Freshwater Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance open water and wetland habitat and associated aquatic organisms. o Wetland edge shrub removal and native planting; improvement of viewshed around lake Forestry: Protect, restore, and enhance diverse forest systems and shade trees for recreational users. o Develop forest management plan for long term maintenance of tree diversity o Monitor for forest pests and diseases and provide rapid responses to detections o Tree maintenance and removals, tree planting and re-forestation Wildlife: Protect, restore, and enhance rare and unique native wildlife species and biodiversity. o Survey for threatened, endangered, and special concern species along with priority native and non-native species. o Manage nuisance and non-native wildlife White-Tailed Deer Non-native and nuisance waterfowl control o Restoration of priority habitat for wildlife to increase habitat connectivity. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 194 Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake habitat improvement TRAILS: Determine trail routes per Natural Resources Management standards with seasonal observations to minimize natural resource impacts. Construct trail per Hiking Trail specification. Site and construct and maintain all trails in compliance with Conservation Easement. SIGNAGE AND WAYFINDING: Design and install entrance and wayfinding signage. Key Performance Indicators Identification of KPIs specific to this park is under development. See Core Values for the master list of KPIs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 195 Figure AAA: Park Aerial Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 196 Springfield Oaks County Park Description and Background LOCATION: Springfield Oaks County Park is a 333-acre park located in the northwest quarter of Oakland County in Davisburg. Address: 12450 and 12451 Andersonville Road, Davisburg, MI 48350 Township and Range: Township T4N R8E, Sections 17 and 20 PARK FEATURES: Springfield Oaks is home to the historic Ellis Barn and annual Oakland County Fair. The Springfield Oaks Activity Center offers the Grand Hall and Carousel Hall for weddings, banquets, reunions, and seminars. On the grounds of Springfield Oaks are several animal barns, a pavilion, and outdoor arenas. The park is alive with activity during the annual Oakland County Fair as 100,000 visitors delight in live animal and 4-H exhibits, including the Miracle of Life Barn. Unpaved trails through woodlands on the southeast part of the park are open for hiking year-round as well as (ungroomed) cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter. The 1884 Ellis Barn’s 14,000 square feet features an indoor riding arena, box stalls, mechanical exercise ring and cavernous second floor for hay and straw. The Ellis Barn represents a significant period of Michigan’s agricultural and transportation history and provides unique educational opportunities. Learn more about the Ellis Barn’s history here. (tinyurl.com/yy7bz6s9) The barn was moved from its original location on Dixie Highway to Springfield Oaks in 2005. Today, it is a popular DIY wedding venue. Across the street from the Activity Center and Ellis Barn lies Oakland County Parks and Recreation’s first golf course. Springfield Oaks is a scenic 18-hole, par 71 course. The front nine is open and hilly, and the back nine is tighter, with more trees and water. The grill room annex offers food service for golfers. Springfield Oaks Golf Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 197 Course is certified by the Michigan Turfgrass Environmental Stewardship Program for exceeding requirements to protect natural resources. NATURAL RESOURCES: Natural Resources Zones: Park contains Conservation Zone, Natural Resources Recreation Zone, Developed Recreation Zone, and Park User Services Zone. See Zone Map and Natural Resources Inventory. Springfield Oaks is part of the headwaters of the Shiawassee River Watershed. The Shiawassee River runs along the northern edge of the park. The streams, creeks and wetlands that run through the park help protect water quality on the property and in the Shiawassee River. The park was likely a combination of black oak barren and mixed conifer swamp prior to the 1800s. While most of the property is occupied by the golf course and fairgrounds, Springfield Oaks is also home to some of OCPR’s most interesting prairie fens, a wetland community that contains host plants for unique wildlife such as the federally endangered Poweshiek Skipperling. This butterfly is currently found downstream from Springfield Oaks. The oak-dominated forests at Springfield Oaks are largely in good condition but the fungal disease oak wilt has started to impact red oaks on the property. These trees are being actively managed to prevent spreading the fungus. Springfield Oaks contains a large population of little brown bats that occupy many of the buildings within the fairgrounds complex. PARK HISTORY: Springfield Oaks resides on the ancestral, traditional, and contemporary lands of the Anishinaabe, known as the Three Fires Confederacy, comprised of the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi. Evidence of a Native presence on and near the land includes its location in the headwaters of the Shiawassee River Watershed, an important waterway system, as well as three inventoried archaeological sites within two miles of the park. These prehistoric sites were identified in 1980 during surveys for a proposed highway project. Two of the three sites are artifact scatters while the remaining site is an isolated findspot consisting of fire cracked rock. A large part of the park was once the James H. Davis farm. At one time it included two barns, pig pens, poultry houses, a grainery, tool sheds and a buggy shed. Today only the house remains. The park is also home to the historic Ellis Barn which was built in 1884 on Dixie Highway. In 2005, the barn was disassembled, moved, and reassembled at Springfield Oaks by barn wrights from Indiana. The barn opened to the public in 2007. The original Springfield Oaks property, equaling 170 acres, was donated to Oakland County in 1926 by Manley Davis. He was the great-grandson of Cornelius Davis, the founder of Davisburg. Over the years additional land was purchased, and today the park encompasses 322 acres, with the golf course comprising 169 acres. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 198 Grant History Unless otherwise noted, all grant-funded facilities and improvements listed in the table below remain open to the public for the purpose of outdoor recreation. Grant Number Source Year Summary OSA-026 Open Space Grant Program 1966 Acquisition of 65 acres 26-00189 Land and Water Conservation Fund, Acquisition 1969 Acquisition and transfer of Mill Pond property 26-01068 Land and Water Conservation Fund, Acquisition 1979 Acquisition of 50 acres Park System Priorities ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL ACCESS: Continue to implement the ADA Transition Plan, which identifies accessibility improvement needs throughout the park; incorporate universal access design principles as new facilities are constructed and improvements to existing facilities are made. BUILDING MANAGEMENT: Maintain an annually updated inventory of building roofs (materials, colors, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) and building equipment (manufacturer information, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) in the park and forecast timeline for upgrades and replacements. Transition building practices, equipment, materials, and supplies to sustainable alternatives to meet sustainability targets and decrease impact on surrounding environments. SUSTAINABILITY IMPROVEMENTS: Invest in the park system to prepare for meeting environmental sustainability targets including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sourcing, or installing renewable energy, electrification of vehicles and equipment, improving water quality and access, reducing water, herbicide, and disposable product use, improving stormwater resilience, and reduction and management of waste. CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS: Evaluate all customer-facing components of the park and take actions that improve and modernize customer interactions and make the park welcoming to everyone; include directional signage, monument signage, point-of-sale, contact stations, upgrade from permanently located portable toilets, and for parks with modern restrooms, availability during open hours. DATA COLLECTION AND REPORTING: Manage data within a central repository and improve data collection and analysis through updated staff processes, replacement of equipment, and identification of new methods and sources. Springfield Oaks Facility Priorities PROPERTY AGREEMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS: Coordinate all design and new uses with existing property restrictions: DNR grant agreements and USFWS Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake Implementation Plan (EMRIP). Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 199 ACTIVITY CENTER: Siding is in poor condition. Replace with metal siding. Siding on Activity Center is priority over Barns. Review usage and consider alternatives for this building. BOARDWALKS: Hole #10 Boardwalk Construction. See below Evaluate proposal to construct boardwalk from former community garden to equestrian area. Compare costs for a range of solutions. Would help with maintenance of the Activity Center to transport mowers and other equipment from the storage shed and eliminate having to use roadway. BOUNDARIES: Replace damaged or deteriorated fences, gates, and other boundary delineation as needed. Plan boundary delineation with appropriate materials with consideration for wildlife movement and the welcoming appearance of the park. Golf Course fence at the Davis House is in poor condition and needs to be replaced. DAVIS HOUSE: Revisit agreement with family. OCPR maintains but does not have access or use of building. It is rarely used by family. ELLIS BARN: Continue maintenance in cooperation with SHPO. FAIRGROUNDS BARNS AND PAVILION: Buildings are aging and in need of new siding and roofs. Cupolas on barns could be removed when roofs are replaced. FAIRGROUNDS, CAMPGROUND, AND ELLIS BARN RESTROOMS: Replace existing FAIRGROUNDS LANDSCAPE: Fair Board has installed a garden and gazebo. Need to follow up on ADA-compliance requirements and ensure no invasive species are present. GOLF COURSE: Reconfigure starting area to improve flow and safety. Construct boardwalk. GOLF COURSE CART PATHS: Replace as needed. GOLF COURSE IRRIGATION AND DRAINAGE: Irrigation pond needs dredging. Locate wet well inlet. Will need to be cleaned out. Getting sands in heads. Check with Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner’s office. Consider combining existing two ponds. Retaining walls around ponds are failing. Consider replacing sea wall with rip rap and naturalizing in consultation with Natural Resources. Inventory culverts and plan for replacements Maintain irrigation system and replace components GOLF COURSE CART BARN: Evaluate need for building expansion and feasibility of charging stations for electric carts. GOLF COURSE CLUBHOUSE: Consider alternatives for use and operation. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 200 MILL POND DAM REMOVAL AND RESTORATION: The Mill Pond Dam was constructed in the 1830s to power the Davisburg Mill. The mill was removed after the turn of the century, but the dam and the resulting mill pond have remained. A 2015 video inspection of the dam identified spillway pipe deficiencies - a portion of the pipe is crushed and therefore decreasing flow. The dam also does not meet 100-year-storm capacity and has caused the pond to overtop Davisburg Road during heavy storm events. A feasibility study done in 2018 (in partnership with Springfield Township) identified several options for the dam going forward. The dam cannot be repaired due to the way it is constructed underneath Davisburg Road. In this situation, the entire dam would need to be removed and reconstructed. Given that the dam is an impediment to the natural flow of this portion of the headwaters of the Shiawassee River, and that the mill pond was continually filled with invasive species, eliminating its use as a recreational asset, Springfield Township and OCPR agreed in 2019 that removing the dam and restoring the natural river was the best option. The project will restore a half-mile of this section of the Shiawassee River and restore approximately 12 acres of manmade mill pond to wetlands (hanging prairie fen). The project includes the installation of an open-bottom culvert over the river underneath Davisburg Road. This will also provide pedestrian access under Davisburg Road, connecting Mill Pond Park with Rotary Park and up into downtown Davisburg. Just upstream of the project the Michigan Department of Natural Resources is removing its Trout Pond Dam, furthering the reach of what will be a newly connected stretch of the Shiawassee. When the project is complete, new property lines will be drawn delineating the Township's Mill Pond Park and Springfield Oaks County Park. The intent is also to have Springfield Township take over ownership and operation of Rotary Park, just on the downstream side of the dam. Oakland County Parks and Recreation has had a long- standing relationship with Springfield Township and has worked jointly with the township in the planning and fundraising for this important project. The project was bid in November 2022 with anticipated construction in the spring of 2023. NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT: Natural Areas Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance unique natural communities and promote biodiversity across the landscape. o MNFI based Natural Community assessments and FQAs to document existing conditions o Surveys for priority invasive species and rare or unique native plants o Treatment and removal of priority invasive species Shrub removals, river viewsheds o Restoration of priority natural communities and habitats through prescribed burning, native seeding, and winter shrub removals. Restoration of prairie habitat for wildlife including Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake. Prairie fen o Installation of no-mow zones, turf conversion, and landscape conversions to native plants Around built infrastructure and in campground Freshwater Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance open water and wetland habitat and associated aquatic organisms. o Water quality assessment of Shiawassee River and wetland o Shiawassee River and pond restoration Mill Pond Dam removal and associated restoration Enhancement of prairie fen habitat along the river corridor Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 201 Wetland edge shrub removal and native planting; improvement of viewshed around lake Improve wetland buffers for water quality o Stormwater infrastructure assessment and monitoring Forestry: Protect, restore, and enhance diverse forest systems and shade trees for recreational users. o Develop forest management plan for long term maintenance of tree diversity o Monitor for forest pests and diseases and provide rapid responses to detections o Tree maintenance and removals, tree planting and re-forestation Golf course Fairgrounds o Development and implementation of debris management plan Wildlife: Protect, restore, and enhance rare and unique native wildlife species and biodiversity. o Survey for threatened, endangered, and special concern species along with priority native and non-native species. o Manage nuisance and non-native wildlife White-Tailed Deer Non-native and nuisance waterfowl control o Restoration of priority habitat for wildlife to increase habitat connectivity. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake habitat improvement PARK ENTRANCES, ROADWAYS AND PARKING: Replace pavement to access barns and incorporate stormwater improvements per OCPR plan. Golf course entrance road culvert has failed and needs to be replaced Equestrian Drive culvert needs to be replaced TRAILS: Trails behind the Activity Center are used on regularly. Develop a trail plan to create an accessible loop and create wayfinding signs and map. Be aware of EMR restrictions. UTILITIES: Utility poles at Fairgrounds and Activity Center are deteriorating and could present a safety risk. Evaluate all poles for replacement as soon as possible. Key Performance Indicators Identification of KPIs specific to this park is under development. See Core Values for the master list of KPIs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 202 Figure BBB: Park Aerial Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 203 Figure CCC: Natural Resources Zone Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 204 Figure DDD: Golf Course Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 205 Waterford Oaks County Park Description and Background LOCATION: Waterford Oaks County Park is a 199-acre park located in the center of Oakland County in Waterford Township. Acreage includes the 13- acre Farmers Market area. Address: o 1702 Scott Lake Road (Main Park Entrance, Waterpark, BMX Track) o 2800 Watkins Lake Road (Activity Center and Administrative Complex) o 2350 Pontiac Lake Road (Farmers Market) Township and Range: T3N R9E, Sections 13 (west ½ and southeast ¼) and 24 (northwest ¼) PARK FEATURES: Waterford Oaks County Park features Waterford Oaks Waterpark; the Waterford Oaks Bicycle Motocross (BMX) Track; more than three miles of hiking trails; the universally accessible Paradise Peninsula Playscape; two platform tennis courts; a winter family sledding hill; and outdoor fitness equipment. The Lookout Lodge, Activity Center and picnic shelters are available for rent. The park is also the headquarters of the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission and Administrative Offices; Facilities, Maintenance and Operations; and Recreation Programs and Services. Around the corner on Pontiac Lake Road is the 13-acre Oakland County Farmers Market, which offers grower- direct fresh produce, flowers, and hand-made goods year-round. The market also hosts educational programs and special events. NATURAL RESOURCES: Natural Resources Zones: Park contains Natural Resources Recreation Zone, Developed Recreation Zone, and Park User Services Zone. See Zone Map and Natural Resources Inventory. Part of the Clinton River Watershed, Waterford Oaks contains the origins of Pontiac Creek, which flows through the park and is surrounded by wetlands. Wet depressions throughout forests have been identified as vernal pools and are monitored annually. A series of rainwater swales and a water retention system was installed around the Administrative Complex and Paradise Peninsula Playscape to naturally mitigate stormwater on the property. Some of the natural community types that can currently be identified, and are being restored, Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 206 include dry southern forest, dry-mesic southern forest, and southern wet meadow. The park was likely a combination of Black Oak Barren, Mixed Conifer and Mixed Oak Savanna prior to the 1800s. PARK HISTORY: Waterford Oaks resides on the ancestral, traditional, and contemporary lands of the Anishinaabe, known as the Three Fires Confederacy, comprised of the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi. Evidence of a Native presence on and near the land includes its location along the Saginaw Trail, one of the most significant trails in Michigan, and accounts of a Native American family that lived on the shores of Silver Lake next to the Oliver Williams homestead. In 1819 the Williams family purchased land that became the northern part of the park. Other families like that of the Stevenson’s and the Kellogg’s soon followed. By the early 1900s the Nye family had a dairy farm on the former Kellogg farm. In 1942 the farm became the home of the Stephan Ernst family who had come to the United States from Germany. It then passed to Stephen Ernst, Jr., whose family was the last to live on land that became Waterford Oaks. The Ernst family greenhouses were well-known and people from all over the Waterford area remember buying their vegetable flats, geraniums, and other flowers there. Between the years 1967 and 1975, OCPR acquired 157.768 acres of land for Waterford Oaks County Park. Additional small parcels were acquired in 1984, 1990, 2008, and 2009, bringing the total park acreage to 184.46 acres. The addition of the Oakland County Farmers Market in 2012 added 14 acres of area managed by OCPR and a total park acreage of 199 acres. Grant History Unless otherwise noted, all grant-funded facilities and improvements listed in the table below remain open to the public for the purpose of outdoor recreation. Grant Number Source Year Summary OSA-080 Open Space Grant Program 1966 Acquisition of 111 acres to create park BF21-9544 Bond Fund, Development 1975 Wave-producing pool, bathhouse 26-00882 Land and Water Conservation Fund, Development 1977 Entrance & access road, parking, tennis courts (8), deck tennis courts (4), horseshoe courts (10), shuffleboard courts (10), shelter/restroom building, paths, landscaping BF90-115 Bond Fund, Development 1990 Toboggan run-refrigerated, warming shelter, roadway improvement, parking area, utilities, landscaping CM00-002 Clean Michigan Initiative, development 2000 Wave pool replacement w/ wave-making equipment, pool lights, gutters Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 207 Grant Number Source Year Summary 2007-0123 Michigan Department of Environmental Quality Non- Point Source Pollution Grant (3019/CMI) 2007 Development of 3 detention areas, a retention area, pervious storm lines, porous pavers and vegetated swales and berms No id# Michigan Recreation and Parks Association Access to Recreation, Accessible by Design Program 2007 Development of a universally accessible playground (Paradise Peninsula playground) Park System Priorities ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL ACCESS: Continue to implement the Transition Plan, which identifies accessibility improvement needs throughout the park; incorporate universal access design principles as new facilities are constructed and improvements to existing facilities are made. BUILDING MANAGEMENT: Maintain an annually updated inventory of building roofs (materials, colors, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) and building equipment (manufacturer information, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) in the park and forecast timeline for upgrades and replacements. Transition building practices, equipment, materials, and supplies to sustainable alternatives to meet sustainability targets and decrease impact on surrounding environments. SUSTAINABILITY IMPROVEMENTS: Invest in the park system to prepare for meeting environmental sustainability targets including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sourcing, or installing renewable energy, electrification of vehicles and equipment, improving water quality and access, reducing water, herbicide, and disposable product use, improving stormwater resilience, and reduction and management of waste. CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS: Evaluate all customer-facing components of the park and take actions that improve and modernize customer interactions and make the park welcoming to everyone; include directional signage, monument signage, point-of-sale, contact stations, upgrade from permanently located portable toilets, and for parks with modern restrooms, availability during open hours. DATA COLLECTION AND REPORTING: Manage data within a central repository and improve data collection and analysis through updated staff processes, replacement of equipment, and identification of new methods and sources. Waterford Oaks Facility Priorities PROPERTY AGREEMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS: Coordinate all design and new uses with existing property restrictions: DNR grant agreements and USFWS Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake Implementation Plan (EMRIP). HEALTHY COMMUNITIES PARK AND OUTDOOR RECREATION INVESTMENT PLAN 22: Increase opportunities for outdoor recreation and quality of facilities to benefit the health and wellness of people living in an area that has been disproportionately impacted by COVID. Focus investment on increasing opportunities for wintertime active outdoor recreation with sledding hill improvements (synthetic surface) and an ice rink. A spray park will extend 22 OCPR has requested an American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) appropriation of $15 million from the Oakland County Board of Commissioners to support projects and park improvements outlined in the OCPR’s Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan. Projects must be completed by the end of 2026. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 208 the season for water play. Pickle ball courts and flexible open space for exercise will further increase outdoor recreation activities. An accessible plaza with shaded gathering and seating areas will welcome visitors to the park and provide opportunities to socialize and relax. A new trail and additional connectors to township sidewalks will increase overall trail mileage and access in the park. DOG PARK: Review potential sites in this park for a dog park. Engage in park-system wide review of Dog Park Standards and feasibility evaluation of converting to a key fob system with an annual subscription. This could lead to elimination of vehicle permit fees and associated staffing issues, but also may introduce new problems related to expectations of customers. Single-day permits could be generated by a pay station that opens the gate with payment. LOOKOUT LODGE: Address condition of the deck, consider two options: replacement with similar structure or removal and replacement with a sidewalk/trail. Consider rebranding the building (lookout on the toboggan run no longer exists). NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT: Natural Areas Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance unique natural communities and promote biodiversity across the landscape. o MNFI based Natural Community assessments and FQAs to document existing conditions o Surveys for priority invasive species and rare or unique native plants o Treatment and removal of priority invasive species Shrub removals, wetland viewsheds o Restoration of priority natural communities and habitats through prescribed burning, native seeding, and winter shrub removals. Restoration of old fields to prairie habitat for wildlife including Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake. o Installation of no-mow zones, turf conversion, and landscape conversions to native plants Around built infrastructure and in campground Freshwater Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance open water and wetland habitat and associated aquatic organisms. o Water quality assessment of wetlands and streams. Wetland edge shrub removal and native planting; improvement of viewshed around lake Vernal pools restoration Improve wetland buffers for water quality o Stormwater infrastructure assessment and monitoring Forestry: Protect, restore, and enhance diverse forest systems and shade trees for recreational users. o Develop forest management plan for long term maintenance of tree diversity o Monitor for forest pests and diseases and provide rapid responses to detections o Tree maintenance and removals Playgrounds and pavilions Waterpark Lookout Lodge BMX Paradise Peninsula Administrative Complex Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 209 o Development and implementation of debris management plan Wildlife: Protect, restore, and enhance rare and unique native wildlife species and biodiversity. o Survey for threatened, endangered, and special concern species along with priority native and non-native species. o Manage nuisance and non-native wildlife White-Tailed Deer Non-native and nuisance waterfowl control o Restoration of priority habitat for wildlife to increase habitat connectivity. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake habitat improvement PARADISE AREA: This is a popular destination for lunchtime for many county employees and nearby workers. Make improvements to create a more functional, welcoming area for people to gather adjacent to the parking lot. Consider inviting food trucks and market as a lunchtime event. Replace current system of yellow barricades that stop people from driving on lawn with a more attractive solution. Landing Building: Identify the area around the Landing as the hub of this area of the park. Make it attractive and welcoming and identify other destinations clearly. Call it out as the trailhead for the park and highlight trail locations. Open bathrooms during working hours; install automatic locks and a security camera. This is the park staff’s break area – may need to relocate. Paradise Peninsula Playground: Replace Paradise Peninsula playground or update with exciting new components to make it a destination. Add a misting element or a hand pump water feature (not a full spray park). Adults who bring their children need seating and shade around the playground. Parking Lot: Plenty of parking. Need to clarify where to go from the parking lot. Address with wayfinding update. Consider additional interpretive signage about water retention/storage and permeable parking spaces. Exercise Equipment: Move this to integrate with the trail system more. Current area may be needed for future covered storage for Rec Programs storage and workspace for Natural Resources Management. Platform Tennis Court: Consider phasing out and restoring site or integrating into trail hub/gathering area. Open Space: Area next to Maintenance Yard is important for Recreation Programs staff to stage equipment to take on the road. It is also ideal for overflow parking and big tent events. Future location for covered storage for Rec Programs storage and workspace for Natural Resources Management. PARK ENTRANCES, ROADWAYS AND PARKING: This section is under development RESTROOM BUILDINGS: Upgrade available restrooms from portable toilets to permanent sustainable restroom building; provide access to existing flush toilets during open hours. TRAILS: Add new trail loop/connection in the northern portion of the park. Add new trails/connections as identified in the Healthy Communities plan for Waterford – connect any newly developed amenities with new trails. Explore trail entry/connection behind Lookout Lodge, highlighting wetland features Map out and advertise a 5K route within the park – often requested for 5K walking and running events. Create more distinct and accessible trailheads and trail signage throughout the park. Work to incorporate trail specifications into existing trails at the park. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 210 WATERPARK: Review two waterparks in the OCPR system, Red Oaks and Waterford Oaks waterparks, at the same time and evaluate feasibility of operating and funding capital improvements for the two waterparks. See also Red Oaks. Waterford Waterpark: Lack of investment in recreational features and infrastructure combined with difficulties with recruiting and maintaining adequate staffing have resulted in declining attendance levels, interruptions in services and increasing operating losses. The removal of the waterslide and raft ride features contributed to significant declines in attendance as the facility no longer offers amenities patrons associate with a waterpark experience. The future of the Waterpark has been a focus of the OCPR Fiscal Sustainability Committee over the past four years. The Committee has recommended an updated and more sustainable concept for the waterpark area that is integrated into the overall vision for Waterford Oaks. The vision for Waterford Oaks cited in planning documents is an accessible and open park experience that ties together all aspects of Waterford Oaks and can be sustainably staffed and maintained in the long-term. This could include phasing out the waterpark and could feature a transition to a spray pad that is integrated into the whole park experience. It could also include provision of parking that links multiple facilities (OCPR/PRD 1/7/2019). A condition facility assessment (FCA) was conducted in 2021 and presented the Parks Commission. The FCA identified an estimated $2M in repairs were needed immediately to bring the facility up to code and safety standards (OCPR/PRD/JFR Architects 1/19/2021). The Fiscal Sustainability Committee (10/24/2022) has revisited the recommendations for Waterford Waterpark and is considering the following alternatives and their alignment on the Service Portfolio Pyramid: A. Remove children’s feature, phase out wave pool, and replace with spray pad that has minimal staffing requirements and is open to the public without charge. By providing healthy activity and outdoor recreation to the public with barriers, we could fund this project through the Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan. (Tier 1 – 0% cost recovery target) B. Remove children’s feature and transition from waterpark to public pool that provides family swims, swimming lesson, and other services. This would realign the pool on the Service Portfolio Pyramid to Tier 4 with the lower 75% cost recovery target. (Tier 4 – 75% cost recovery target) C. Continue current operation with limited investment until equipment fails (Tier 5 – 100% cost recovery target) D. Make significant investment to rebuild the Waterpark as a regional recreation feature (Tier 5 – 100% cost recovery target) Key Performance Indicators Identification of KPIs specific to this park is under development. See Core Values for the master list of KPIs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 211 Figure EEE: Park Aerial Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 212 Figure FFF: Natural Resources Zone Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 213 Figure GGG: Trail Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 214 Waterford Oaks County Park / Oakland County Market Description and Background LOCATION: The 14-acre Oakland County Farmers Market is part of the 199-acre Waterford Oaks County Park located in the center of Oakland County in Waterford Township. Address: 2350 Pontiac Lake Road PARK FEATURES: Farmers Market building and canopy, parking lot and programmable open space. NATURAL FEATURES: Natural Resources Zones: Park contains Developed Recreation Zone, and Park User Services Zone. See Zone Map and Natural Resources Inventory. PARK HISTORY: Waterford Oaks resides on the ancestral, traditional, and contemporary lands of the Anishinaabe, known as the Three Fires Confederacy, comprised of the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi. Evidence of a Native presence on and near the land includes its location along the Saginaw Trail, one of the most significant trails in Michigan, and accounts of a Native American family that lived on the shores of Silver Lake next to the Oliver Williams homestead. History of market area under development Management of the Oakland County Farmers Market was transferred from Oakland County Facility, Maintenance and Operations to OCPR in 2012, adding 14 acres of area to the area managed by OCPR and a total park acreage of 199 acres. Grant History Not applicable Park System Priorities ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL ACCESS: Continue to implement the Transition Plan, which identifies accessibility improvement needs throughout the park; incorporate universal access design principles as new facilities are constructed and improvements to existing facilities are made. BUILDING MANAGEMENT: Maintain an annually updated inventory of building roofs (materials, colors, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) and building equipment (manufacturer information, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) in the park and forecast timeline for upgrades and replacements. Transition building practices, equipment, materials, and supplies to sustainable alternatives to meet sustainability targets and decrease impact on surrounding environments. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 215 SUSTAINABILITY IMPROVEMENTS: Invest in the park system to prepare for meeting environmental sustainability targets including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sourcing, or installing renewable energy, electrification of vehicles and equipment, improving water quality and access, reducing water, herbicide, and disposable product use, improving stormwater resilience, and reduction and management of waste. CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS: Evaluate all customer-facing components of the park and take actions that improve and modernize customer interactions and make the park welcoming to everyone; include directional signage, monument signage, point-of-sale, contact stations, upgrade from permanently located portable toilets, and for parks with modern restrooms, availability during open hours. DATA COLLECTION AND REPORTING: Manage data within a central repository and improve data collection and analysis through updated staff processes, replacement of equipment, and identification of new methods and sources. Oakland County Market Facility Priorities COMPLIANCE WITH PROPERTY RESTRICTIONS: Review management agreement with County. OAKLAND COUNTY FARMER’S MARKET MODERNIZATION AND IMPROVEMENT PROJECT 23: Purpose: The overarching goal is to engage with more people in new and exciting ways at the Oakland County Farmer’s Market (OCFM). We will increase accessibility at the market for 200,000+ annual visitors, create new program space for educational activities (ours and many partners), develop a commercial kitchen for popular cooking demonstrations and incubator use, build accessible/family restrooms, and improve the overall site with storm water management and demonstration gardens. We will increase and promote access to healthy, nutritious food, while better supporting our 100+Michigan 23 FEDERAL EARMARK APPROPRIATION: OCPR has submitted an appropriation request from Congresswoman Haley Stevens, for $2.4M from the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Bill for the Oakland County Farmer’s Market Modernization and Improvement Project, with OCPR providing an additional 10% and any additional match needed to complete the project. Funding decision is expected December 2022 / January 2023. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 216 farmers. We will provide new opportunities for health and fitness with dedicated accessible space for classes and a new accessible walking path around the market. Use for Funds: Construction - renovations to the market building and pavilion (accessible restrooms and exterior doors, energy efficient windows, commercial kitchen, new roof), construction of an accessible programming/educational pavilion, parking lot replacement (and safety improvements) and stormwater management, new trail around the market and connecting to overflow parking, and electrical and utility upgrades to support vendors and programs. Public Need: We participate with multiple food assistance programs: SNAP, Double Up Food Bucks through the Fair Food Network, WIC Project Fresh, Senior Market Fresh and the Prescription for a Healthy Oakland Program. Our goal is to increase accessibility and participation in all these programs while providing activities and education around nutrition and cooking, health & wellness, and conservation and natural resource stewardship. The market supports more than 100 farmers from across the state of Michigan (17 counties) who travel from as far as St. John and Sault Ste. Marie each week to sell their produce in Oakland County. Justification for Use of Public Funds: This project will increase access to fresh, healthy, local produce by improving access and expanding educational opportunities. It supports more than 100 Michigan farmers and provides access to low-income residents through food assistance programs. It will provide dozens of accessible, educational, family-friendly programs and activities throughout the year on a wide variety of topics, fostering a community that appreciates local agriculture and environmental stewardship and sustainability. ALTERNATIVES FOR FEASABILITY ANALYSIS: Consider Core Values in comparison Update Current Site: Update buildings at current site; consider adding second level; make entire site more usable and programmable. Existing building needs: Accessible restrooms and exterior doors; energy efficient windows; new roof; air conditioning Build on New Site: Consider other County-owned locations, look for shared parking lots; opportunity to build a larger park experience with playgrounds and picnicking that encourage people to stay longer and shop with vendors. With new location, current site can stay open while new facility is built. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY: Wi-Fi is available for vendors and guests in Market Building – need to analyze availability at Canopy Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 217 OPERATIONS: Capacity: Current capacity is for 100 vendors – evaluate need and feasibility of increasing vendor capacity. Producer Vendors: May to December preferential to producer vendors: This makes our market unique. Evaluate allowing non-producer vendors; potentially allowing only outside produced items not provided by producer vendors (e.g., bananas). Arts and Crafts: Handcrafters; art shows; sells out stalls – depends on season. However, preferentially rent to produce vendors in season. Food Trucks: Consider renting food truck space – food truck row – demand is there – weekdays without opening building Cost Recovery: Plan to be revenue positive COMMERCIAL KITCHEN: Licensed facility for vendor food prep; OCPR maintains compliance Demonstration kitchen – can serve what is made; plan for 100 people to attend Ovens for bakers Incubator for new businesses and to try new ideas Include grease and oil disposal LOADING/UNLOADING: Docking station for vendors to load and unload Designated area for pick-up/drop-off of orders and vendors bring to car (parking spot #s and call vendor). Vendors already do it but designated area. Developed with COVID. NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT: Installation of no-mow zones, turf conversion, and landscape conversions to native plants Stormwater infrastructure assessment and monitoring PAVILIONS: Enclosable vendor pavilion with garage doors – retrofit current Canopy or new site New accessible programming/educational pavilion ROUTES TO MARKET AND PARKING: Vehicles: Parking lot replacement (and safety improvements) and storm water management. EV charging stations. Trails: Revisit plans for trail development: pathway connections to EOB and Waterford and recreational trail loop. Relate to remote work – fewer people are shopping from work. Transit: SMART stop not very visible or accessible; assess location and usage; consider addition of covered bench Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 218 Other: Alternative routes to Market to consider include ride share drop off lanes, bike racks, we do get groups on buses (hard to navigate our parking lot) SUSTAINABILITY PROGRAMS AND IMPROVEMENTS: Showcase Sustainability: New building: LEEDS certification / Old facility: improved sustainability Waste Management: Demonstration composting site. Review overall recycling program for Market and the partners in place or needed: innovative options include plastic recycling for flower pots; food reuse program – provide an area for food donation bins for an outside non-profit to coordinate with vendors. Native Landscapes: incorporate native plants and no-mow areas. EV Charging: Incorporate into parking; also charging for maintenance equipment. Solar Panel Parking Area: Utilize solar pavilions for charging and parking shade structures. UTILITY UPGRADES: Electrical and utility upgrades to support vendors and programs TIMELINE FOR RESEARCH AND ENGAGEMENT: 1. Draft Rec Plan concepts and meet internally to review in November 2. Market and pricing analysis of county and farmers markets – more than 1200 in state 3. Vendor – surveys (January survey; work with staff to develop survey in November) and charettes (sync with design timeline) 4. Public on-site and online surveys (April and May) 5. Update counting technology and methods (baseline with surveys). Key Performance Indicators Identification of KPIs specific to this park is under development. See Core Values for the master list of KPIs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 219 Figure HHH: Park Aerial Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 220 Figure III: Natural Resources Zone Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 221 White Lake Oaks County Park Description and Background LOCATION: White Lake Oaks County Park is a 236-acre park located near the center of Oakland County in White Lake Township. A small portion of the park (less than a half-acre) is in Waterford Township. Address: 991 North Williams Lake Road, White Lake, Michigan 48386 Township and Range: T3N R8E, Sections 13 and 24; R9E Section 18 PARK FEATURES: White Lake Oaks Golf Course is a scenic 18-hole, par 70 course. The player-friendly layout features an open front nine and tight back nine featuring woodlands and wetlands. The clubhouse features a pro shop, grill room, and garden patio. White Lake Oaks is certified by the Michigan Turfgrass Environmental Stewardship Program for exceeding requirements to protect natural resources. NATURAL RESOURCES: Natural Resources Zones: Park contains Conservation Zone, Natural Resources Recreation Zone, Developed Recreation Zone, and Park User Services Zone. See Zone Map and Natural Resources Inventory. White Lake Oaks is part of both the Huron River Watershed and the Clinton River Watershed. Almost half of White Lake Oaks is wetlands. The Huron River flows along the western side of the property. The park was likely a combination of Black Oak Barren and Mixed Hardwood Swamp prior to the 1800s. There are many old oak trees on the property which are susceptible to the fungal disease oak wilt. The trees are currently being monitored and treated onsite. Many species of wildlife, including coyotes and foxes, live in the wetlands adjacent to the golf course and can often be seen at dawn or dusk. PARK HISTORY: White Lake Oaks resides on the ancestral, traditional, and contemporary lands of the Anishinaabe, known as the Three Fires Confederacy, comprised of the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi. Evidence of a Native presence on and near the land includes its location in both the Huron River Watershed and the Clinton River Watershed, two historically significant watersheds. In addition, several prehistoric artifacts were discovered on the Korpak farm which was just south of the park. These include fluted projectile points estimated to be 10,000 years old and a quartz Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 222 spear point estimated to be 5,000 years old. A copper projectile point was also located just a bit north of the park near Pontiac Lake. For many years the land was the farm of the Vantine family. In the 1920s Elmer Vantine and a few associates purchased several farms around tiny Lime Lake which was located just northwest of the Vantine farm. Then, with the help of a dam on the Huron River, huge Pontiac Lake was created. Mr. Vantine hoped to cash in on the growing interest in recreation in Oakland County. This was the reason he also turned his farm land into a golf course in 1930. Elmer Vantine’s Twin Lakes Golf Course eventually became White Lake Oaks Golf Course when the property was purchased by the OCPR in 1971. In 2016, OCPR acquired a 40.2-acre property in White Lake Township from the Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan, increasing the size of the park to 236 acres. COMMUNITY CONTEXT: Demographic and economic summary is under development ACCESSIBILITY RANKING: Under development; ranking of 1 through 5 per DNR guidelines, note individual needs in the document. Grant History Not applicable. Park System Priorities ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL ACCESS: Continue to implement the ADA Transition Plan, which identifies accessibility improvement needs throughout the park; incorporate universal access design principles as new facilities are constructed and improvements to existing facilities are made. BUILDING MANAGEMENT: Maintain an annually updated inventory of building roofs (materials, colors, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) and building equipment (manufacturer information, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) in the park and forecast timeline for upgrades and replacements. Transition building practices, equipment, materials, and supplies to sustainable alternatives to meet sustainability targets and decrease impact on surrounding environments. SUSTAINABILITY IMPROVEMENTS: Invest in the park system to prepare for meeting environmental sustainability targets including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sourcing, or installing renewable energy, electrification of vehicles and equipment, improving water quality and access, reducing water, herbicide, and disposable product use, improving stormwater resilience, and reduction and management of waste. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 223 CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS: Evaluate all customer-facing components of the park and take actions that improve and modernize customer interactions and make the park welcoming to everyone; include directional signage, monument signage, point-of-sale, contact stations, upgrade from permanently located portable toilets, and for parks with modern restrooms, availability during open hours. DATA COLLECTION AND REPORTING: Manage data within a central repository and improve data collection and analysis through updated staff processes, replacement of equipment, and identification of new methods and sources. White Lake Oaks Facility Priorities BOUNDARIES: Inventory and assess all park fences and determine appropriate materials for delineation and appropriate level of vegetation management. Williams Lake Road Fenceline: Visible from busy road and a priority for replacement. Current fence is topped with barbed wire; replace with an alternative that looks friendlier and is easier to maintain. CLUBHOUSE: Pro Shop and Grill Room: Improve flow for golfers between these two locations. Activity Center/former Conference Center: Implement activity center model with rental space for private events, with renters bringing own caterer and OCPR holding the liquor license and providing beverage service. Put facility improvements on hold until new operating model can meet annual cost recovery targets. GOLF COURSE: Starting Area: Reconfigure Hole #1 to improve flow and visibility; reorienting the hole will reduce damage from balls flying into the parking lot; calculate optimal changes without affecting par. Collaborate with Natural Resources Management for tree removals and swale management. Irrigation System: Replace heads, half of the heads are over 20 years old and can no longer be repaired. Drainage and Stormwater: Complete inventory of infrastructure and evaluate function and need for each. Replacement of failed structures and restoration to a functional system will improve the quality of the course for play and benefit water quality in the Huron River Watershed. Cart Barn: Cart barn has multiple issues. New cart fleet was acquired in 2022 and barn needs to be insulated to preserve the batteries. Evaluate roof for repair or replacement need. Sky lights leak and should be removed, potentially at the same time as insulating or replacing roof. Siding at ground level nearest the Clubhouse is rotting. Cart Paths: Continue to make repairs as needed; evaluate condition of entire path system and schedule replacements as part of the Paved Pathway Replacement Program. Restroom Buildings (2): Replace drinking fountains with bottle filling stations. MAINTENANCE BUILDING AND YARD: Siding repairs are needed at north cold storage section. Evaluate with Cart Barn. Assess building equipment for replacement needs. NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT: Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 224 Natural Areas Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance unique natural communities and promote biodiversity across the landscape. o MNFI based Natural Community assessments and FQAs to document existing conditions o Surveys for priority invasive species and rare or unique native plants o Treatment and removal of priority invasive species o Restoration of priority natural communities and habitats through prescribed burning, native seeding, and winter shrub removals. Forested wetlands and forested west side of property o Installation of no-mow zones, turf conversion, and landscape conversions to native plants Around built infrastructure Freshwater Stewardship: Protect, restore, and enhance open water and wetland habitat and associated aquatic organisms. o Water quality assessment of Huron River, irrigation pond and streams. o Huron River, irrigation pond and streams restoration Wetland edge shrub removal and native planting; improvement of viewshed around lake Vernal pools restoration Improve wetland buffers for water quality o Stormwater infrastructure assessment and monitoring Forestry: Protect, restore, and enhance diverse forest systems and shade trees for recreational users. o Develop forest management plan for long term maintenance of tree diversity o Monitor for forest pests and diseases and provide rapid responses to detections o Tree maintenance and removals Golf course o Development and implementation of debris management plan Wildlife: Protect, restore, and enhance rare and unique native wildlife species and biodiversity. o Survey for threatened, endangered, and special concern species along with priority native and non-native species. o Manage nuisance and non-native wildlife White-Tailed Deer Non-native and nuisance waterfowl control o Restoration of priority habitat for wildlife to increase habitat connectivity Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake habitat improvement PARK ENTRANCES, ROADWAYS AND PARKING: Pontiac Lake Road Crossing Safety Improvements: High priority to improve this crossing. Collaborate with Road Commission. North Parking Lot: Continue to maintain. Planning for improvements will wait for results of new Activity Center operating model. Maintenance Parking Area: Expand and reconfigure to accommodate periods of higher staffing. In-house project. SIGNAGE AND WAYFINDING: Main Entrance Sign: Sign does not meet OCPR brand standards. Difficult to replace due to proximity to road. There is interest in a digital sign; establish protocol system-wide for digital signs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 225 WATER ACCESS: See West Park WEST PARK: Establish official access points, connectivity, and recreational use of the former Girl Scout property. Consider establishing hunting opportunities and revisiting opportunities for water trail connectivity. Determine protocol for Natural Resources Management staff to access the property via Maintenance Road through Golf Course and how to alert golfers to the traffic. Key Performance Indicators Identification of KPIs specific to this park is under development. See Core Values for the master list of KPIs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 226 Figure JJJ: Park Aerial Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 227 Figure KKK: Natural Resources Zone Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 228 Figure LLL: Golf Course Map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 229 Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan In October 2022, the Oakland County Board of Commissioners approved a proposal from the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission for $15M in Oakland County American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds to invest in park and outdoor recreational spaces. Oakland County Parks and Recreation (OCPR) has developed a comprehensive proposal that will: • Rejuvenate municipal parks that are underutilized due to existing conditions that compromise accessibility, participation, and use by residents, including outdated or inoperable recreation equipment and facilities, deteriorating infrastructure, and disinvestment and underutilization of natural resources/park amenities • Sustain the one-time investment of ARPA funding through partnerships that will incorporate four existing municipal parks into the Oakland County Parks system, securing long-term, ongoing investments from OCPR in park facilities and maintenance • Transform and eliminate historic inequities in the distribution of the benefits of the Oakland County Parks system and significantly enhance our capacity to serve residents of densely populated, diverse core urban cities • Expand accessibility and use of existing community park facilities to serve regional recreational needs • Make investments in park infrastructure that will have the greatest impact in improving the health and well-being of our residents • Provide much needed financial aid to chronically underfunded communities to address priority local park and outdoor recreation needs • Rejuvenate and enhance four existing OCPR parks that serve impacted populations through investments in park infrastructure, amenities and facilities targeted at improving health outcomes and social connectivity • Leverage the investment of county ARPA funding with a commitment by OCPRC to make a minimum $5.2 million investment in park improvement projects to support the plans outlined in this proposal Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 230 Figure MMM: Healthy Communities project map Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 231 Improvements to Existing Oakland County Parks One component of the Healthy Communities Parks and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan is the investment in improvements to four existing Oakland County Parks that provide outdoor recreation services to communities that have been impacted by COVID. These parks include Catalpa Oaks, Lyon Oaks, Red Oaks, and Waterford Oaks. Catalpa Oaks Located in the City of Southfield, the 24-acre Catalpa Oaks County Park features four soccer fields, two baseball fields, playgrounds, a large pavilion and a .6-mile loop around the park for walking/running. The vision for Catalpa Oaks in the Healthy Communities proposal is to increase opportunities for active outdoor recreation including pickleball and basketball courts and flexible open space for exercise. An accessible plaza with shaded gathering and seating areas will welcome visitors to the park and provide opportunities to socialize and relax. Added trail connectors to city sidewalks will increase pedestrian access to the park. For additional information see the Catalpa Oaks Park Action Plan. Lyon Oaks Located in Wixom, the 1,040-acre Lyon Oaks County Park features an 18-hole golf course, dog park, soccer complex, cricket pitch, picnic pavilion with restroom and playground, paved and rustic trails and natural areas. The vision for Lyon Oaks in the Healthy Communities proposal is to increase opportunities for active outdoor recreation with pickleball and a destination playground, as well as flexible open space for exercise. Additional trail connections from the park entrance may be included as well. For additional information see the Lyon Oaks Park Action Plan. Red Oaks Located in Madison Heights, the 163-acre Red Oaks Park includes a nine-hole golf course, nature center including woods/trails, waterpark, dog park, and youth soccer complex. The vision for Red Oaks in the Healthy Communities proposal is to improve areas for programming, events and gathering at the Nature Center with the addition of a new pavilion, seating, restrooms, and a nature-themed playground. The vision for Red Oaks also includes the incorporation of Ambassador Park (owned by the city of Madison Heights) into Red Oaks County Park. Oakland County Parks and Recreation will make improvements to Ambassador Park and operate it as part of Red Oaks County Park. Improvements to Ambassador Park may include a restroom facility, pickleball courts, native garden, playground, and a pavilion. For additional information see the Red Oaks Park Action Plan. Waterford Oaks Located in Waterford and containing the Oakland County Parks and Recreation administrative complex, the 199- acre Waterford Oaks Park includes a wave pool, bicycle motocross (BMX) track, hiking trails, playscape, two platform tennis courts, a sledding hill, and outdoor fitness equipment. The vision for Waterford Oaks includes increasing opportunities for winter active outdoor recreation with sledding hill improvements and an ice rink. A spray park will extend the season for water play. Pickleball courts and flexible open space for exercise will further increase outdoor recreation activities. An accessible plaza with shaded gathering and seating areas will welcome visitors to the park and provide opportunities to socialize and relax. A new trail and additional connectors to township sidewalks will increase overall trial mileage and access in the park. For additional information see the Waterford Oaks Park Action Plan. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 232 Park Improvement Capital Grants: Hazel Park and Royal Oak Township Hazel Park The City of Hazel Park will receive $400,000 for the development of a universally accessible playground at Green Acres Park, as well as assistance from Oakland County Parks and Recreation in developing park standards and wayfinding for pocket parks throughout the city. Oakland County Parks and Recreation is also working with the city of Hazel Park to provide $300,000 toward improvements to the Hazel Park Community Center, which will incorporate space for an OCPR office and shared recreation programming space. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 233 Royal Oak Township Royal Oak Township will receive a grant of $300,000 for the construction of a universally accessible playground at Mack-Rowe Park. Oakland County Parks’ planning staff will continue to work with Royal Oak Township to plan for continued improvements and to update their Recreation Plan. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 234 Local Park Partnership: Beech Woods / Southfield Description and Background LOCATION: Beech Woods Park is an 82-acre park owned by the City of Southfield. OCPR area of interest encompasses the former golf course part of the park, 40-55 acres, the precise boundaries to be determined Address: 22200 Beech Rd, Southfield, MI 48033 PARK FEATURES: Driving range, community center, golf course ceased operation in 2019 Park System Priorities ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL ACCESS: Continue to implement the Transition Plan, which identifies accessibility improvement needs throughout the park; incorporate universal access design principles as new facilities are constructed and improvements to existing facilities are made. SUSTAINABILITY IMPROVEMENTS: Invest in the park system to prepare for meeting environmental sustainability targets including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sourcing or installing renewable energy, electrification of vehicles and equipment, improving water quality and access, reducing water, herbicide and disposable product use, improving stormwater resilience, and reduction and management of waste. CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS: Evaluate all customer-facing components of the park and take actions that improve and modernize customer interactions and make the park welcoming to everyone; include directional signage, monument signage, point-of-sale, contact stations, upgrade from permanently located portable toilets, and for parks with modern restrooms, availability during open hours. DATA COLLECTION AND REPORTING: Manage data within a central repository and improve data collection and analysis through updated staff processes, replacement of equipment, and identification of new methods and sources. Beech Woods Facility Priorities Increase opportunities for outdoor recreation and quality of facilities to benefit the health and wellness of people living in an area that has been impacted by COVID. Focus investment on providing quality experiences in nature with accessible trails, boardwalks, and access to the Rouge River in a restored grassland and forest habitat. Gathering and seating areas will provide opportunities to socialize and relax in a natural setting. NATURE PRESERVE: Create standards to define and establish Nature Preserve designation for parkland. Designate this park as a Nature Preserve. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 235 As part of the Healthy Communities plan, the city of Southfield will also receive a cash grant of $500,000 for the development of a splash pad aquatic play feature and universally accessible playground at Beech Woods Park. Key Performance Indicators Identification of KPIs specific to this park is under development. See Core Values for the master list of KPIs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 236 Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 237 Local Park Partnership: Hawthorne Park / Pontiac Description and Background LOCATION: Hawthorne Park is a 77-acre park owned by the City of Pontiac. Address: 1400 Telegraph Rd, Pontiac, MI 48340 PARK FEATURES: Disc golf course, three horseshoe pits, a playground, picnic area, pavilions, a boat launch, and fishing area. Park System Priorities ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL ACCESS: Continue to implement the Transition Plan, which identifies accessibility improvement needs throughout the park; incorporate universal access design principles as new facilities are constructed and improvements to existing facilities are made. BUILDING MANAGEMENT: Maintain an annually updated inventory of building roofs (materials, colors, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) and building equipment (manufacturer information, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) in the park and forecast timeline for upgrades and replacements. Transition building practices, equipment, materials, and supplies to sustainable alternatives to meet sustainability targets and decrease impact on surrounding environments. SUSTAINABILITY IMPROVEMENTS: Invest in the park system to prepare for meeting environmental sustainability targets including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sourcing, or installing renewable energy, electrification of vehicles and equipment, improving water quality and access, reducing water, herbicide, and disposable product use, improving stormwater resilience, and reduction and management of waste. CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS: Evaluate all customer-facing components of the park and take actions that improve and modernize customer interactions and make the park welcoming to everyone; include directional signage, monument signage, point-of-sale, contact stations, upgrade from permanently located portable toilets, and for parks with modern restrooms, availability during open hours. DATA COLLECTION AND REPORTING: Manage data within a central repository and improve data collection and analysis through updated staff processes, replacement of equipment, and identification of new methods and sources. Hawthorne Park Facility Priorities Increase opportunities for outdoor recreation and quality of facilities to benefit the health and wellness of people living in an area that has been impacted by COVID. Focus investment on improving and replacing deteriorated buildings and amenities and increasing accessibility to provide a safe and welcoming environment. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 238 Management of shoreline vegetation and invasive species will provide clear views of Silver Lake and visitors will be able to fish and launch canoes and kayaks off a new accessible dock. The already popular disc golf course will be updated with signage and maps. Trail improvements, natural area restoration and forest management will provide quality experiences in nature. As part of the Healthy Communities plan, the City of Southfield will also receive a $500,000 grant for municipal park improvements identified by the city. Key Performance Indicators Identification of KPIs specific to this park is under development. See Core Values for the master list of KPIs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 239 Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 240 Local Park Partnership: David H. Shepherd Park / Oak Park Description and Background LOCATION: Shepherd Park is a 43.39-acre park owned by the City of Oak Park. The OCPR area of interest is approximately 20 acres, with the precise boundaries to be determined. Address: 24198 Church St, Oak Park, MI 48237 PARK FEATURES: Pavilions, basketball courts, play structures, baseball diamonds, tennis courts, nature trails. Park System Priorities ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL ACCESS: Continue to implement the Transition Plan, which identifies accessibility improvement needs throughout the park; incorporate universal access design principles as new facilities are constructed and improvements to existing facilities are made. BUILDING MANAGEMENT: Maintain an annually updated inventory of building roofs (materials, colors, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) and building equipment (manufacturer information, inspection results, installation, and repair dates) in the park and forecast timeline for upgrades and replacements. Transition building practices, equipment, materials and supplies to sustainable alternatives to meet sustainability targets and decrease impact on surrounding environments. SUSTAINABILITY IMPROVEMENTS: Invest in the park system to prepare for meeting environmental sustainability targets including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sourcing or installing renewable energy, electrification of vehicles and equipment, improving water quality and access, reducing water, herbicide and disposable product use, improving stormwater resilience, and reduction and management of waste. CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS: Evaluate all customer-facing components of the park and take actions that improve and modernize customer interactions and make the park welcoming to everyone; include directional signage, monument signage, point-of-sale, contact stations, upgrade from permanently located portable toilets, and for parks with modern restrooms, availability during open hours. DATA COLLECTION AND REPORTING: Manage data within a central repository and improve data collection and analysis through updated staff processes, replacement of equipment, and identification of new methods and sources. Shepherd Park Facility Priorities Increase opportunities for outdoor recreation and quality of facilities to benefit the health and wellness of people living in an area that has been impacted by COVID. Focus investment on developing an open space gateway with accessible trails, seating and gathering areas, and the installation Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 241 of a nature-themed playground. Updates to existing pavilions and restrooms is under consideration. As part of the Healthy Communities plan, the City of Oak Park will also receive a $500,000 grant to remove the existing putt-putt course and construct a splash pad aquatic play feature. Key Performance Indicators Identification of KPIs specific to this park is under development. See Core Values for the master list of KPIs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 242 Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 243 Property Acquisition: Troy Schools Property Description and Background LOCATION: Turtle Woods is a 70-acre parcel of property that is currently owned by Troy School District (TSD), which purchased it in the 1960s as a potential future expansion location. TSD no longer plans to develop the property for a future school and is looking to sell the property. The School District is very interested in seeing it maintained as a nature area or park, as they know this is important to the community and ecologically significant. The property is located on Square Lake Road, just east of John R. It is bordered by Square Lake Road on the south, homes on the west and east, and a golf course (Sylvan Glen) to the north. PROPERTY FEATURES: While not formally managed by TSD or the City of Troy as a park, the property has acted as such for the past several years. Trails have been cut in by residents and stewardship activities have taken place on the property over the years NATURAL RESOURCES: The property is a combination of woods and wetlands – retaining open space and natural lands in the urban environment is important in sustaining natural resources and improving quality of life though services such as stormwater filtration, forest carbon mitigation and habitat for native pollinators. To retain 70 undeveloped acres in this area would secure a significant amount of green infrastructure. Of the 70 acres, approximately 43 are wetlands. Parts of the property are heavily wooded, with approximately 1.5 miles of trails cut in by residents. Several species of turtles have been found during past property assessments (hence the name), including the Blanding’s Turtle, a state species of special concern. Rare plant species of State special concern have also been found in past assessments, including wahoo (Euonymus atropurpureus) and seedbox (Ludwigia alternifolia). Rare habitat types identified on the property in previous studies include Southern Hardwood Swamp and Wet Mesic Prairie. Southern Hardwood Swamp is under threat from glossy buckthorn (Frangula alnus) and is listed by the Michigan Natural Features Inventory as vulnerable habitat. The Wet-mesic Prairie is under threat of Phragmites (Phragmites australis) and the natural succession of woody species and is listed in the Michigan Natural Features Inventory as critically imperiled habitat. The habitat is also home to many other amphibians and migratory bird species. Open space and natural lands in the urban environment are critical to sustaining natural resources and improving quality of life through services such as stormwater filtration, forest carbon mitigation and habitat for native pollinators. Additionally, green space will become critically important to potential plant and wildlife migrations and stormwater mitigation as climate change continues to progress both at the local and global level. Acquisition of new land should be balanced with the ability of OCPR to fund management, but the preservation of this open space, even in a degraded state, provides benefits to native species and local communities. The Natural Resources Management Unit of OCPR would strive to inventory the property, mitigate threats on site (such as invasive species and shrub encroachment) and manage the property through regular management activities such as prescribed burning. PROPERTY HISTORY: Turtle Woods has been owned by the Troy School District since the 1960s when it acquired the property as a potential school expansion site. While the site has never been a formal part of the Troy School District, it has been utilized by the local community and sometimes the schools since the 60s. The property has Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 244 been one of interest to OCPR and local land conservancies since the 1980s for its rare natural communities and potential habitat for endangered species. COMMUNITY CONTEXT: Turtle Woods has been adopted informally by the surrounding neighborhoods and local interested citizens and has been used as a place to walk trails for many years. It has become a “hidden gem” in Troy and is seen by many as a respite from this busy area of the county. Over the years Boy Scouts and others have completed small boardwalk and trail projects on the property, and it has been studied by many environmentalists and ecologists for its unique natural features. OCPR has been working with the Troy School District as well as the City of Troy on the acquisition of this property. Grant Plan TSD is interested in selling the property at 75% of the appraised value, so that the 25% of value donated could act as match for a grant application to the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund. This would mean that the acquisition could be almost entirely grant funded with little out-of-pocket for OCPRC. Future grant funding may support trail and boardwalk development at the park. Because Trust Fund dollars cannot be utilized to acquire property already held by a public agency, Six Rivers Land Conservancy has offered to act as an intermediary landowner, purchasing the property from TSD and holding it until such time as OCPRC could secure grant funding to purchase it. Park System Priorities ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL ACCESS: Continue to implement the ADA Transition Plan, which identifies accessibility improvement needs throughout the park; incorporate universal access design principles as new facilities are constructed and improvements to existing facilities are made. SUSTAINABILITY IMPROVEMENTS: Invest in the park system to prepare for meeting environmental sustainability targets including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sourcing, or installing renewable energy, electrification of vehicles and equipment, improving water quality and access, reducing water, herbicide and disposable product use, improving stormwater resilience, and reduction and management of waste. CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS: Evaluate all customer-facing components of the park and take actions that improve and modernize customer interactions and make the park welcoming to everyone; include directional signage, monument signage, point-of-sale, contact stations, upgrade from permanently located portable toilets, and for parks with modern restrooms, availability during open hours. DATA COLLECTION AND REPORTING: Manage data within a central repository and improve data collection and analysis through updated staff processes, replacement of equipment, and identification of new methods and sources. Troy Properties Facility Priorities NATURE PRESERVE: Create standards to define and establish Nature Preserve designation for parkland. Designate this park as a Nature Preserve. ROADS AND PARKING LOTS: Subdivision parking lot: TSD recently sold approximately 12 acres of the Square Lake Road frontage of the property to Robertson Brothers Homes, who is developing a small subdivision which will include a dedicated public parking lot providing access to Turtle Woods. However, the parking lot will only be for 14 vehicles, which is not large enough to service a county park. Finding and securing additional parking will be an important part of this project and completing the acquisition of the property. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 245 Adjacent private lots: There are residential parcels on Square Lake Road that may be appropriate for providing parking and access to the property. Additional discussions and planning will be undertaken to determine the viability of these lots for parking. Church parcel: The Evanswood Church sits at the corner of Square Lake and Evanswood Road, adjacent to the southeast corner of the Turtle Woods property. There may be some opportunity to collaborate with the church for parking and access. Key Performance Indicators Identification of KPIs specific to this park is under development. See Core Values for the master list of KPIs. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 246 Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 247 References Campbell, Ron. 4/29/2014. Design Inspiration and Characteristics of the Buhl Estate at Addison Oaks. Waterford MI: Oakland County Economic Development and Community Affairs. ETC Institute. 2022. Oakland County Parks Community Needs Assessment Findings Report. Waterford MI: Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission. MDNR. 10/17/2022. Addison Oaks Park - Cell Tower Review for 26-01023 R1, TF89-002, BF91-025, TF07- 030, RP12-406. Lansing MI: Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Grants Management Section. MDNR. 4/26/2021. Guidelines for the Development of Community Park, Recreation, Open Space, and Greenway Plans. Lansing MI: Michigan Department of Natural Resources - Grants Management. OCPR. September 7 2022. Parks Commission Agenda #5 Final Approval of Proposed FY2023-2025 Budgets. Waterford MI: Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission. Accessed 12 27, 2022. https://www.oakgov.com/parks/getinvolved/Pages/Parks-Commision.aspx. OCPR/PRD. 2022. Annual Data Book and Dashboard FY2021. Annual Report, Planning and Resource Development, Oakland County Parks and Recreation, Waterford MI: Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission. OCPR/PRD. 2022. Parks Commission Visioning Report. Waterford MI: Oakland County Parks and Recreation. OCPR/PRD. 1/7/2019. Waterford Waterpark Transition Concept. Planning Review , Waterford Michigan: Oakland County Parks and Recreation. OCPR/PRD/JFR Architects. 1/19/2021. Waterford Oaks Waterpark Facility Condition Assessment Presentation. Commision Presentation, Waterford Michigan: Oakland County Parks and Recreation. OHM Advisors. 2022. Oakland County Parks American Rescue Plan Act Parks Improvement Planning. Waterford MI: Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission. Skidmore Studio. 2016. Discovery Report. Waterford MI: Oakland County Parks and Recreation. US Dept of Treasury. 4/1/2022. Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Final Rule. Washington DC: Office of the Federal Register. https://home.treasury.gov/policy- issues/coronavirus/assistance-for-state-local-and-tribal-governments/state-and-local-fiscal- recovery-funds. Return to Table of Contents Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 248 Oakland County Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 249 End Notes 1 https://www.cdc.gov/socialdeterminants/about.html 2 https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/covid-data/investigations-discovery/hospitalization-death-by-race- ethnicity.html 3 The Home Owners' Loan Corporation was established in 1933 by the U.S Congress to refinance mortgages in default and prevent foreclosures. In 1935 they created residential security maps for 239 cities to indicate the level of security for real-estate investments. The maps were graded such as the newest areas, which were considered desirable for lending received a "Type A" grade. These areas were primarily wealthy suburbs on the outskirts of town. Still Desirable neighborhoods were given a "Type B" grade and older neighborhoods were given a "Type C" grade and considered Declining. Lastly "Type D" neighborhoods were regarded as most risky for mortgage lending. Robert K. Nelson, LaDale Winling, Richard Marciano, Nathan Connolly, et al., “Mapping Inequality,” American Panorama, ed. Robert K. Nelson and Edward L. Ayers, accessed September 16, 2020, https://dsl.richmond.edu/panorama/redlining 4 https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/SLFRF-Final-Rule.pdf 5 https://www.huduser.gov/portal/datasets/qct.html 6 https://aspe.hhs.gov/topics/poverty-economic-mobility/poverty-guidelines 7 The Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG) supports local planning through its technical, data, and intergovernmental resources. The work SEMCOG does improves the quality of the region's water, makes the transportation system safer and more efficient, revitalizes communities, and spurs economic development. The SEMCOG region includes the counties of Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, St. Clair, Washtenaw, and Wayne. https://semcog.org/ 8 ESRI Business Analyst is a mapping tool to access data for multiple geographies, from national to block group levels, for the entire United States. More than 2,000 variables on current-year estimates and five-year projection of US demographics, including population, households, income, age, and ethnicity; and data on education, marital status, and languages spoken. Data Sources: Esri, US Census Bureau, and American Community Survey (ACS). https://www.esri.com/en-us/arcgis/products/arcgis-business-analyst/data-infographics ix https://health.gov/healthypeople 2022 Community Needs Assessment Survey Findings Report Oakland County Parks and Recreation Contents Section 1: Executive Summary............................... 4 Section 2: Charts and Graphs............................... 13 Section 5: Tabular Data...................................... 54 Section 3: Priority Investment Rating .................. 41 Section 6: Open-Ended Responses...................... 99 Section 7: Survey Instrument............................ 122 Section 4: National Benchmarks.......................... 49 1 Executive Summary 2022 Oakland County Parks Community Needs Assessment Executive Summary Overview ETC Institute administered a Community Needs Assessment Survey for Oakland County during the months of summer 2022. The survey will help Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission plan for future recreation programs and facilities that meet the community’s needs and preferences. Methodology ETC Institute mailed a survey packet to a random sample of households in Oakland County. Each survey packet contained a cover letter, a copy of the survey, and a postage‐paid return envelope. Residents who received the survey were given the option of returning the survey by mail or completing it online at OaklandCountySurvey.org. After the surveys were mailed, ETC Institute followed up by sending text messages and mailing postcards to encourage participation. The text messages and postcards contained a link to the online version of the survey to make it easy for residents to complete the survey. To prevent people who were not residents of Oakland County from participating, everyone who completed the survey online was required to enter their home address prior to submitting the survey. ETC Institute then matched the addresses that were entered online with the addresses that were originally selected for the random sample. If the address from a survey completed online did not match one of the addresses selected for the sample, the online survey was not included in the final database for this report. The goal was to complete a minimum of 1,000 completed surveys from County residents. The goal was met with 1,048 completed surveys collected. The overall results for the sample of 1,048 households have a precision of at least +/‐3.0 at the 95% level of confidence. This report contains the following: Charts showing the overall results of the survey (Section 2) Priority Investment Rating (PIR) that identifies priorities for facilities and programs (Section 3) Benchmarks comparing Oakland County Results to National Averages (Section 4) Tabular data showing the overall results for all questions on the survey (Section 5) Responses to open‐ended questions (Section 6) A copy of the survey instrument (Section 7) The major findings of the survey are summarized on the following pages. Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)4 Oakland County Parks and Facilities Use Use of Parks and Facilities: Respondents were asked to indicate if their household had used any of the 16 Oakland County parks listed within the past year. The highest number of respondents (45%) visited the Oakland County Farmers Market followed by Independence Oaks (40%). Respondents were then asked to select the four parks their household visits most often. These were the most often used parks: Oakland County Farmers Market (38%) Independence Oaks (35%) Addison Oaks (20%) Respondents were then asked to indicate how often in the past year their household visited Oakland County parks. The highest number of respondents (40%) visited less than once a month followed by 1‐3 times a month (34%). Respondents most often rated the overall condition of parks and facilities as either good (65%) or excellent (19%). Barriers to Outdoor Recreation Usage: Respondents were asked to assess their level of agreement on 16 statements regarding factors that keep their household from utilizing outdoor recreation spaces more often. Respondents most often agreed (by choosing either “strongly agree” or “agree”) that they don’t have enough information (45%), they don’t like the outdoors (37%), and they don’t have time (34%). Respondents least often agreed that lack of adequate transportation or feeling unwelcome/uncomfortable were barriers to their usage. Most respondents (57%) say there are not sufficient parks and green space areas within a 10‐minute walk of their residence but 76% say they have access to those areas within a 15 minute drive. Parks and Recreation and Resident Partnership Ways Households Learn about Programs and Activities: Respondents were asked to select all the ways they learned about Oakland County Parks and Recreation. The highest number of respondents received communication via friends, family, and coworkers (56%), Oakland County Parks website (47%), and Facebook (35%). Level of Satisfaction: Respondents were asked to indicate their level of satisfaction with the overall value from Oakland County Parks and Recreation. Sixty‐four percent (64%) of respondents said they were either very satisfied (24%) or somewhat satisfied (40%). Future of Parks and Recreation: Respondents were asked to rate the importance of 16 potential actions for the future of Oakland Parks and Recreation. The highest number of respondents felt managing freshwater and stormwater resources to protect water quality and reducing flooding was very important (73%). Other actions respondents felt were very important were maintaining roads and park infrastructure (61%) and reducing waste by recycling and composting (60%). Each action had most respondents rating it “important” or “very important Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)5 Parks and Recreation Facilities Needs and Priorities Facility Needs: Respondents were asked to identify if their household had a need for 40 parks and recreation facilities and to rate how well their needs for each were currently being met. Based on this analysis, ETC Institute was able to estimate the number of households in the community that had the greatest “unmet” need for various facilities. The three parks and recreation facilities/amenities with the highest percentage of households that have an unmet need: 1.Beaches– 116,937 households 2.Indoor aquatic centers – 111,427households 3.Adult fitness equipment – 102,884 households The estimated number of households that have unmet needs for each of the 40 parks and recreation facilities assessed is shown in the chart below. Q4d. Estimated Number of Households Whose Needs for Parks and Recreation Facilities are 50% Met or Less by number of households with need based on an estimated 509,589 households in Oakland County 116,937111,427102,88488,39483,718 83,674 83,363 79,706 79,30578,12177,40674,910 67,706 66,948 66,822 62,925 60,19854,11949,32848,95446,528 45,939 45,238 44,900 43,054 41,82741,45540,49031,232 28,665 28,644 27,603 27,053 24,653 23,41122,38121,61418,987 16,526 12,459 Beaches Indoor aquatic centers Adult fitness equipment Sledding hills Farmers markets Camping areas & cabins Canoe & kayak launch sites Nature centers River access for canoeing, kayaking Splash pads & spray parks Trails‐hiking Waterparks & waterslides Indoor recreation centers Natural areas & open space Dog parks Picnic tables, grills, & benches Boating & fishing areas Zip lines Outdoor pavilions to rent for events Golf driving ranges Trails–accessible Indoor ice rinks & arenas Indoor event rental space Playgrounds Ropes courses Outdoor pickleball courts Banquet facilities Archery range Trails‐mountain biking Golf courses 18‐hole Disc golf Golf courses 9‐hole Outdoor tennis courts Hunting areas Off‐road vehicle areas Equestrian centers & facilities Outdoor basketball courts Sports fields‐soccer & cricket Baseball & softball diamonds Trails‐equestrian 0 20,000 40,000 60,000 80,000 Need 0% Met 100,000 120,000 Need 25% Met Need 50% Met Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)6 Facilities Importance: In addition to assessing the needs for each Parks and Recreation facility, ETC Institute also assessed the importance that residents placed on each item. Based on the sum of respondents’ top four choices, these were the four facilities ranked most important to residents: 1.Trails—hiking (33%) 2.Farmers markets (28%) 3.Beaches (27%) 4.Natural areas and open space (24%) The percentage of residents who selected each facility as one of their top four choices is shown in the chart below. Facilities Used Most Often. Respondents were also asked to rank the four facilities their household uses most often. These were the four top selected facilities: Trails—Hiking (31%) Farmers Market (25%) Natural areas & open space (20%) Beaches (19%) Q5. Parks and Recreation Facilities Most Important to Households by percentage of respondents who selected the items as one of their top four choices 33% 28% 27% 24% 18% 15% 14% 14% 12% 12% 11% 10% 10% 9% 8% 7% 7% 6% 6% 5% 4% 4% 4% 4% 3% 3% 3% 3% 3% 3% 2% 2% 2% 2% 2% 1% 1% 1% 1% 1% Trails‐hiking Farmers markets Beaches Natural areas & open space Dog parks Camping areas & cabins Canoe & kayak launch sites Playgrounds Golf courses 18‐hole Nature centers Adult fitness equipment Indoor aquatic centers Picnic tables, grills, & benches Boating & fishing areas Golf courses 9‐hole Trails–accessible Trails‐mountain biking Waterparks & waterslides Splash pads & spray parks Indoor recreation centers Outdoor pickleball courts River access for canoeing, kayaking Disc golf Golf driving ranges Banquet facilities Outdoor pavilions to rent for events Sledding hills Indoor event rental space Baseball & softball diamonds Archery range Hunting areas Sports fields‐soccer & cricket Equestrian centers & facilities Indoor ice rinks & arenas Outdoor tennis courts Zip lines Trails‐equestrian Outdoor basketball courts Off‐road vehicle areas Ropes courses 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% Top choice 2nd choice 3rd choice 4th choice Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)7 Priorities for Facility Investments: The Priority Investment Rating (PIR) was developed by ETC Institute to provide organizations with an objective tool for evaluating the priority that should be placed on recreation and parks investments. The Priority Investment Rating (PIR) equally weights (1)the importance that residents place on amenities and (2) how many residents have unmet needs for the amenity. [ Details regarding the methodology for this analysis are provided in Section 3 of this report.] Based the Priority Investment Rating (PIR), the following parks and recreation facilities/amenities were rated as high priorities for investment: Beaches (PIR=181.9) Trails‐hiking (PIR=166.2) Farmers markets (PIR=156.6) Natural areas & open space (PIR=131.8) Indoor aquatic centers (PIR=127.2) Adult fitness equipment (PIR=121.4) Camping areas & cabins (PIR=116.6) Canoe & kayak launch sites (PIR=114.2) Dog parks (PIR=111.1) Nature centers (PIR=104.1) The chart below shows the Priority Investment Rating for each of the 40 recreation facilities assessed on the survey. 182 166 157 132 127 121 117 114 111 104 85 85 84 82 81 80 78 72 61 61 53 52 51 48 48 48 47 46 45 43 39 36 29 28 25 23 23 23 22 14 Beaches Trails‐hiking Farmers markets Natural areas & open space Indoor aquatic centers Adult fitness equipment Camping areas & cabins Canoe & kayak launch sites Dog parks Nature centers Sledding hills Picnic tables, grills, & benches Splash pads & spray parks Waterparks & waterslides Playgrounds River access for canoeing, kayaking Boating & fishing areas Indoor recreation centers Golf courses 18‐hole Trails–accessible Golf driving ranges Outdoor pavilions to rent for events Zip lines Outdoor pickleball courts Indoor event rental space Golf courses 9‐hole Trails‐mountain biking Banquet facilities Indoor ice rinks & arenas Archery range Ropes courses Disc golf Outdoor tennis courts Hunting areas Equestrian centers & facilities Off‐road vehicle areas Baseball & softball diamonds Sports fields‐soccer & cricket Outdoor basketball courts Trails‐equestrian 0 50 100 150 200 Top Priorities for Investment for Facilities Based on the Priority Investment Rating Medium Priority (50‐99) Low Priority (0‐50) High Priority (100+) Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)8 Oakland County Program Needs and Priorities Program Needs: Respondents were asked to identify if their household had a need for 28 programs and to rate how well their needs for each were currently being met. Based on this analysis, ETC Institute was able to estimate the number of households in the community that had the greatest “unmet” need for various facilities/amenities. The three programs with the highest percentage of households that have an unmet need: 1.Adult fitness and wellness programs – 154,461 households 2.Community festivals – 108,310 households 3.Food truck rallies – 106,677 households The estimated number of households that have unmet needs for each of the 28 parks and recreation programs assessed is shown in the chart below. Q7d. Estimated Number of Households Whose Needs for Programs are 50% Met or Less by number of households with need based on an estimated 509,589 households in Oakland County 154,461 108,310 106,677 104,060 95,674 85,695 85,416 81,844 76,557 71,325 67,612 58,074 53,791 49,140 45,352 42,159 41,827 40,580 40,171 40,131 35,258 33,265 26,606 26,162 25,790 20,914 14,651 14,346 Adult fitness & wellness programs Community festivals Food truck rallies Farmers market programs Art/antique/craft shows Art & photography programs Winter programs Kayak, canoe, paddleboard rentals Water fitness programs Nature education programs Bird/wildlife watching programs Volunteer opportunities Campground programs Bus trips Citizen science programs Youth swim lessons Before & after school programs Nature stewardship programs Fishing programs Golf programs & events Youth summer camps Archery programs Youth fitness programs Adaptive programs Pre‐school programs Homeschool programs Scouting programs Mobile unit rentals 0 25,000 50,000 75,000 100,000 125,000 0% Met 150,000 25% Met 50% Met Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)9 Programs Importance: In addition to assessing the needs for each program, ETC Institute also assessed the importance that residents placed on each item. Based on the sum of respondents’ top four choices, these are the four most important programs to residents: 1.Farmers market programs (33%) 2.Adult fitness & wellness programs (25%) 3.Community festivals (19%) 4.Art/antique/craft shows (16%) The percentage of residents who selected each program as one of their top four choices is shown in the chart below. Programs Used Most Often. Respondents were also asked to rank the four programs their household uses most often. These were the four top selected programs: Farmers market programs (28%) Community festivals (17%) Art/antique/craft shows (12%) Adult fitness & wellness programs (10%) and Golf programs & events (10%) Q8. Recreation Programs That Are Most Important to Households by percentage of respondents who selected the items as one of their top four choices 33% 25% 19% 16% 13% 13% 12% 11% 11% 10% 9% 8% 8% 6% 6% 6% 6% 5% 5% 5% 4% 4% 4% 3% 3% 3% 2% 1% Farmers market programs Adult fitness & wellness programs Community festivals Art/antique/craft shows Nature education programs Kayak, canoe, paddleboard rentals Food truck rallies Golf programs & events Bird/wildlife watching programs Winter programs Campground programs Art & photography programs Water fitness programs Bus trips Fishing programs Volunteer opportunities Youth swim lessons Before & after school programs Nature stewardship programs Youth summer camps Pre‐school programs Adaptive programs Citizen science programs Archery programs Youth fitness programs Homeschool programs Scouting programs Mobile unit rentals 0%10%20%30% Top choice 2nd choice 3rd choice 4th choice Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)10 Priorities for Program Investments: The Priority Investment Rating (PIR) was developed by ETC Institute to provide organizations with an objective tool for evaluating the priority that should be placed on recreation and parks investments. The Priority Investment Rating (PIR) equally weights (1) the importance that residents place on each program and (2) how many residents have unmet needs for the program. [ Details regarding the methodology for this analysis are provided in Section 3 of this report.] Based the Priority Investment Rating (PIR), the following Oakland County programs were rated as high priorities for investment: Adult fitness & wellness programs (PIR=175) Farmers market programs (PIR=167) Community festivals (PIR=128) Art/antique/craft shows (PIR=110) Food truck rallies (PIR=106) The chart below shows the Priority Investment Rating for each of the 28 programs assessed. 175 167 128 110 106 91 86 86 80 77 73 62 60 55 51 45 44 43 42 41 38 32 29 29 27 23 17 12 Adult fitness & wellness programs Farmers market programs Community festivals Art/antique/craft shows Food truck rallies Kayak, canoe, paddleboard rentals Nature education programs Winter programs Art & photography programs Bird/wildlife watching programs Water fitness programs Campground programs Golf programs & events Volunteer opportunities Bus trips Youth swim lessons Fishing programs Before & after school programs Nature stewardship programs Citizen science programs Youth summer camps Archery programs Pre‐school programs Adaptive programs Youth fitness programs Homeschool programs Scouting programs Mobile unit rentals 0 50 100 150 200 Top Priorities for Investment for Programs Based on the Priority Investment Rating Medium Priority (50‐99) Low Priority (0‐50) High Priority (100+) Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)11 Charts & Graphs2 Q1. From the following list, please check ALL the Oakland County parks you or members of your household have visited over the past 12 months.by percentage of respondents (excluding "none")45%40%24%24%22%20%17%15%13%13%12%11%10%9%9%4%Oakland County Farmers MarketIndependence OaksAddison OaksWaterford OaksRed OaksOrion OaksGroveland OaksCatalpa OaksSpringfieldLyon OaksWhite Lake OaksHolly OaksHighland OaksGlen OaksRose Oaks0%10%20%30%40%50%Oakland County Parks event or programs at community locationsOakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)13 Q2. Which of the parks does your household use MOST OFTEN?by percentage of respondents who selected the items as one of their top four choices38%35%20%18%18%18%15%12%11%10%9%8%6%6%5%2%Oakland County Farmers MarketIndependence OaksAddison OaksWaterford OaksRed OaksOrion OaksGroveland OaksSpringfieldCatalpa OaksLyon OaksWhite Lake OaksHolly OaksGlen OaksHighland OaksRose Oaks0%10%20%30%40%Top choice 2nd choice 3rd choice 4th choiceOakland County Parks event or programs at community locationsOakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)14 Q3. In the past 12 months, how often have you or other members of your family visited one or more of the Oakland County Parks and Recreation parks?Less than once a month40%1‐3 times a month34%Once a week9%2‐4 times a week9%I have not visited5%5+ times a week2%by percentage of respondents (excluding “not provided”)Oakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)15 Q4. Respondents With Need for Facilitiesby percentage of respondents52%49%48%44%39%34%31%30%29%28%27%26%25%25%25%23%22%20%20%20%18%17%16%14%13%12%12%12%11%11%10%10%9%8%8%7%7%6%6%5%Farmers marketsTrails‐hikingNatural areas & open spaceBeachesNature centersPicnic tables, grills, & benchesPlaygroundsCamping areas & cabinsCanoe & kayak launch sitesDog parksAdult fitness equipmentIndoor aquatic centersWaterparks & waterslidesRiver access for canoeing, kayakingSledding hillsBoating & fishing areasSplash pads & spray parksTrails‐accessibleOutdoor pavilions to rent for eventsGolf courses 18‐holeGolf courses 9‐holeIndoor recreation centersGolf driving rangesTrails‐mountain bikingBanquet facilitiesIndoor ice rinks & arenasIndoor event rental spaceZip linesDisc golfOutdoor pickleball courtsArchery rangeRopes coursesBaseball & softball diamondsSports fields‐soccer & cricketOutdoor tennis courtsOutdoor basketball courtsHunting areasOff‐road vehicle areasEquestrian centers & facilitiesTrails‐equestrian0%10%20%30%40%50%Oakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)16 Q4b. Estimated Number of Households With Need For Facilitiesby number of households based on an estimated 509,589 households in Oakland County262,438249,699246,131225,748200,268174,789156,444151,858145,233142,175138,099132,493127,397126,888124,849118,734111,600102,937101,91899,87993,25588,15982,55368,79566,75663,18960,64160,13256,05555,03652,99749,43047,90141,27740,25837,20033,63331,59531,08525,479Farmers marketsTrails‐hikingNatural areas & open spaceBeachesNature centersPicnic tables, grills, & benchesPlaygroundsCamping areas & cabinsCanoe & kayak launch sitesDog parksAdult fitness equipmentIndoor aquatic centersWaterparks & waterslidesRiver access for canoeing, kayakingSledding hillsBoating & fishing areasSplash pads & spray parksTrails–accessibleOutdoor pavilions to rent for eventsGolf courses 18‐holeGolf courses 9‐holeIndoor recreation centersGolf driving rangesTrails‐mountain bikingBanquet facilitiesIndoor ice rinks & arenasIndoor event rental spaceZip linesDisc golfOutdoor pickleball courtsArchery rangeRopes coursesBaseball & softball diamondsSports fields‐soccer & cricketOutdoor tennis courtsOutdoor basketball courtsHunting areasOff‐road vehicle areasEquestrian centers & facilitiesTrails‐equestrian0 50,000 100,000 150,000 200,000 250,000 300,000Oakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)17 Q4c. How Well Households’ Needs For Parks and Recreation Facilities Are Being Metby percentage of respondents who indicated their household had a need for the facility44%38%45%52%39%38%33%30%34%31%23%36%30%28%16%22%17%23%22%19%18%22%21%19%15%16%15%12%12%10%15%12%15%10%8%12%10%9%5%4%29%34%26%18%30%30%32%34%27%24%32%18%23%24%36%28%32%26%23%23%24%19%20%19%23%16%15%18%16%17%12%14%11%16%16%11%13%7%8%6%17%18%14%16%21%18%17%23%22%23%28%28%16%31%20%27%18%24%28%24%27%23%21%25%25%27%28%28%24%12%23%22%24%27%22%15%25%15%14%12%8%8%10%9%8%10%11%11%10%16%10%15%19%14%18%17%21%18%16%25%19%24%14%20%23%27%26%30%28%24%30%21%17%27%22%24%21%21%27%24%2%4%5%5%2%4%7%3%8%7%8%4%12%3%11%7%12%10%11%9%11%12%25%17%15%13%16%13%20%37%20%31%33%22%32%38%31%48%46%54%Natural areas & open spacePlaygroundsGolf courses 18‐holeGolf courses 9‐holeTrails‐hikingFarmers marketsBaseball & softball diamondsPicnic tables, grills, & benchesNature centersTrails–accessibleTrails‐mountain bikingSports fields‐soccer & cricketDog parksOutdoor pavilions to rent for eventsTrails‐equestrianBoating & fishing areasDisc golfBeachesCamping areas & cabinsCanoe & kayak launch sitesOutdoor basketball courtsWaterparks & waterslidesGolf driving rangesBanquet facilitiesRiver access for canoeing, kayakingOutdoor tennis courtsSplash pads & spray parksSledding hillsEquestrian centers & facilitiesIndoor ice rinks & arenasHunting areasOff‐road vehicle areasAdult fitness equipmentIndoor event rental spaceOutdoor pickleball courtsArchery rangeIndoor recreation centersIndoor aquatic centersRopes coursesZip lines0%20%40%60%80%100%100% Met 75% Met 50% Met 25% Met 0% MetOakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)18 Q4d. Estimated Number of Households Whose Needs for Parks and Recreation Facilities are 50% Met or Lessby number of households with need based on an estimated 509,589 households in Oakland County116,937111,427102,88488,39483,71883,67483,36379,70679,30578,12177,40674,91067,70666,94866,82262,92560,19854,11949,32848,95446,52845,93945,23844,90043,05441,82741,45540,49031,23228,66528,64427,60327,05324,65323,41122,38121,61418,98716,52612,459BeachesIndoor aquatic centersAdult fitness equipmentSledding hillsFarmers marketsCamping areas & cabinsCanoe & kayak launch sitesNature centersRiver access for canoeing, kayakingSplash pads & spray parksTrails‐hikingWaterparks & waterslidesIndoor recreation centersNatural areas & open spaceDog parksPicnic tables, grills, & benchesBoating & fishing areasZip linesOutdoor pavilions to rent for eventsGolf driving rangesTrails–accessibleIndoor ice rinks & arenasIndoor event rental spacePlaygroundsRopes coursesOutdoor pickleball courtsBanquet facilitiesArchery rangeTrails‐mountain bikingGolf courses 18‐holeDisc golfGolf courses 9‐holeOutdoor tennis courtsHunting areasOff‐road vehicle areasEquestrian centers & facilitiesOutdoor basketball courtsSports fields‐soccer & cricketBaseball & softball diamondsTrails‐equestrian020,000 40,000 60,000 80,000 100,000 120,000Need 0% Met Need 25% Met Need 50% MetOakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)19 Q5. Parks and Recreation Facilities Most Important to Householdsby percentage of respondents who selected the items as one of their top four choices33%28%27%24%18%15%14%14%12%12%11%10%10%9%8%7%7%6%6%5%4%4%4%4%3%3%3%3%3%3%2%2%2%2%2%1%1%1%1%1%Trails‐hikingFarmers marketsBeachesNatural areas & open spaceDog parksCamping areas & cabinsCanoe & kayak launch sitesPlaygroundsGolf courses 18‐holeNature centersAdult fitness equipmentIndoor aquatic centersPicnic tables, grills, & benchesBoating & fishing areasGolf courses 9‐holeTrails–accessibleTrails‐mountain bikingWaterparks & waterslidesSplash pads & spray parksIndoor recreation centersOutdoor pickleball courtsRiver access for canoeing, kayakingDisc golfGolf driving rangesBanquet facilitiesOutdoor pavilions to rent for eventsSledding hillsIndoor event rental spaceBaseball & softball diamondsArchery rangeHunting areasSports fields‐soccer & cricketEquestrian centers & facilitiesIndoor ice rinks & arenasOutdoor tennis courtsZip linesTrails‐equestrianOutdoor basketball courtsOff‐road vehicle areasRopes courses0%5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35%Top choice 2nd choice 3rd choice 4th choiceOakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)20 Q6. Facilities Used Most Often by Householdsby percentage of respondents who selected the items as one of their top four choices31%25%20%19%14%13%11%10%9%9%9%8%7%6%5%5%4%3%3%3%3%3%3%2%2%2%2%2%2%2%2%1%1%1%1%1%1%1%1%0%Trails‐hikingFarmers marketsNatural areas & open spaceBeachesDog parksPlaygroundsGolf courses 18‐holeCamping areas & cabinsCanoe & kayak launch sitesNature centersPicnic tables, grills, & benchesBoating & fishing areasGolf courses 9‐holeTrails–accessibleTrails‐mountain bikingAdult fitness equipmentWaterparks & waterslidesSplash pads & spray parksGolf driving rangesSledding hillsRiver access for canoeing, kayakingDisc golfIndoor aquatic centersSports fields‐soccer & cricketBaseball & softball diamondsHunting areasOutdoor pavilions to rent for eventsIndoor recreation centersEquestrian centers & facilitiesIndoor event rental spaceOutdoor tennis courtsOutdoor pickleball courtsBanquet facilitiesArchery rangeTrails‐equestrianIndoor ice rinks & arenasOutdoor basketball courtsOff‐road vehicle areasZip linesRopes courses0%5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%Top choice 2nd choice 3rd choice 4th choiceOakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)21 Q7. Respondents With Need for Recreation Programsby percentage of respondents 46%40%32%26%25%24%22%21%19%18%18%15%15%15%11%11%11%11%10%10%10%8%8%7%7%5%5%4%Farmers market programsAdult fitness & wellness programsCommunity festivalsFood truck ralliesArt/antique/craft showsKayak, canoe, paddleboard rentalsNature education programsWinter programsArt & photography programsBird/wildlife watching programsWater fitness programsVolunteer opportunitiesGolf programs & eventsCampground programsBus tripsNature stewardship programsYouth swim lessonsBefore & after school programsFishing programsCitizen science programsYouth summer campsArchery programsYouth fitness programsPre‐school programsAdaptive programsScouting programsHomeschool programsMobile unit rentals0%10%20%30%40%50%Oakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)22 Q7b. Estimated Number of Households With Need for Programsby number of households based on an estimated 509,589 households in Oakland County235,430204,855165,107133,512127,907121,792110,581106,50494,27492,74590,70778,47776,43874,40057,07457,07455,54555,03652,99750,95949,94040,76738,72935,67134,65225,47922,93218,345Farmers market programsAdult fitness & wellness programsCommunity festivalsFood truck ralliesArt/antique/craft showsKayak, canoe, paddleboard rentalsNature education programsWinter programsArt & photography programsBird/wildlife watching programsWater fitness programsVolunteer opportunitiesGolf programs & eventsCampground programsBus tripsNature stewardship programsYouth swim lessonsBefore & after school programsFishing programsCitizen science programsYouth summer campsArchery programsYouth fitness programsPre‐school programsAdaptive programsScouting programsHomeschool programsMobile unit rentals050,000 100,000 150,000 200,000 250,000Oakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)23 Q7c. How Well Households’ Need For Programs Are Being Metby percentage of respondents who indicated their household had a need for the program27%27%20%11%9%13%15%11%9%13%20%5%13%5%9%9%10%13%11%9%7%9%6%8%7%4%3%9%29%21%23%24%25%20%16%19%20%15%7%22%13%21%15%16%15%12%13%13%13%11%12%7%6%7%7%23%23%23%33%31%22%22%28%32%30%32%30%30%34%25%23%34%21%22%28%23%26%12%18%20%28%23%27%14%17%15%17%21%29%24%27%18%25%17%21%17%22%23%25%22%23%26%19%28%33%23%18%22%26%26%24%7%12%20%15%13%16%22%15%21%18%24%21%28%19%28%28%20%32%28%31%29%21%46%49%44%35%42%41%Farmers market programsGolf programs & eventsScouting programsNature education programsCommunity festivalsKayak, canoe, paddleboard rentalsYouth fitness programsYouth summer campsNature stewardship programsCampground programsPre‐school programsBird/wildlife watching programsVolunteer opportunitiesArt/antique/craft showsAdult fitness & wellness programsAdaptive programsFishing programsYouth swim lessonsBefore & after school programsMobile unit rentalsFood truck ralliesWinter programsArchery programsWater fitness programsBus tripsCitizen science programsArt & photography programsHomeschool programs0%20%40%60%80%100%100% Met 75% Met 50% Met 25% Met 0% MetOakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)24 Q7d. Estimated Number of Households Whose Needs for Programs are 50% Met or Lessby number of households with need based on an estimated 509,589 households in Oakland County154,461108,310106,677104,06095,67485,69585,41681,84476,55771,32567,61258,07453,79149,14045,35242,15941,82740,58040,17140,13135,25833,26526,60626,16225,79020,91414,65114,346Adult fitness & wellness programsCommunity festivalsFood truck ralliesFarmers market programsArt/antique/craft showsArt & photography programsWinter programsKayak, canoe, paddleboard rentalsWater fitness programsNature education programsBird/wildlife watching programsVolunteer opportunitiesCampground programsBus tripsCitizen science programsYouth swim lessonsBefore & after school programsNature stewardship programsFishing programsGolf programs & eventsYouth summer campsArchery programsYouth fitness programsAdaptive programsPre‐school programsHomeschool programsScouting programsMobile unit rentals025,000 50,000 75,000 100,000 125,000 150,0000% Met 25% Met 50% MetOakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)25 Q8. Recreation Programs That Are Most Important to Householdsby percentage of respondents who selected the items as one of their top four choices33%25%19%16%13%13%12%11%11%10%9%8%8%6%6%6%6%5%5%5%4%4%4%3%3%3%2%1%Farmers market programsAdult fitness & wellness programsCommunity festivalsArt/antique/craft showsNature education programsKayak, canoe, paddleboard rentalsFood truck ralliesGolf programs & eventsBird/wildlife watching programsWinter programsCampground programsArt & photography programsWater fitness programsBus tripsFishing programsVolunteer opportunitiesYouth swim lessonsBefore & after school programsNature stewardship programsYouth summer campsPre‐school programsAdaptive programsCitizen science programsArchery programsYouth fitness programsHomeschool programsScouting programsMobile unit rentals0%10%20%30%Top choice 2nd choice 3rd choice 4th choiceOakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)26 Q9. Recreation Programs Households Participate in Mostby percentage of respondents who selected the items as one of their top four choices28%17%12%10%10%8%7%7%6%6%4%3%2%2%2%2%2%2%2%2%2%2%2%1%1%1%1%1%Farmers market programsCommunity festivalsArt/antique/craft showsAdult fitness & wellness programsGolf programs & eventsNature education programsKayak, canoe, paddleboard rentalsFood truck ralliesBird/wildlife watching programsCampground programsWinter programsFishing programsWater fitness programsBefore & after school programsVolunteer opportunitiesYouth summer campsBus tripsNature stewardship programsArt & photography programsYouth fitness programsAdaptive programsArchery programsPre‐school programsYouth swim lessonsCitizen science programsScouting programsHomeschool programsMobile unit rentals0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%Top choice 2nd choice 3rd choice 4th choiceOakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)27 Q10. Level of Agreement with Barriers to Outdoor Recreation Usageby percentage of respondents (excluding “don’t know”)13%9%8%7%9%6%6%6%2%2%2%3%2%2%1%1%32%28%26%21%17%17%17%15%13%10%7%5%5%5%6%3%25%25%28%24%25%25%13%11%30%25%24%11%19%24%24%19%18%22%25%29%28%29%27%26%33%33%42%35%35%30%39%42%12%16%14%19%20%23%37%43%22%30%24%47%39%39%30%35%I don't have enough informationI don't like outdoor pests, such as mosquitosI don't have timeI don't have anyone to go withI don't have enough moneyIt's too far to travelIt's too crowdedI don't have skills or abilitiesRecreation areas are poorly maintainedI don't have adequate transportationI just don't want toThere are too many rulesI feel unwelcome or uncomfortable0%20% 40% 60% 80% 100%Strongly Agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly DisagreeI or a member of my household have personal health reasonsI or a member of my household have a physical disabilityI don't feel safe because of other people that go thereOakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)28 Q11. Do you feel that there are sufficient parks and green space areas within a 10‐minute walk of your residence?No57%Yes43%by percentage of respondents (excluding “not provided”)Oakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)29 Q12. Do you feel that there are sufficient parks and green space areas with a 15‐minute drive of your residence?Yes76%No24%by percentage of respondents (excluding “not provided”)Oakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)30 Q13. How important do you feel each of the following actions are to the future of Oakland County Parks and Recreation?by percentage of respondents (excluding “not provided”)73%61%60%58%56%54%52%51%43%40%38%38%37%34%34%33%30%28%27%25%22%32%27%32%28%35%34%36%32%37%34%41%40%30%33%45%36%29%39%39%4%6%10%8%12%9%12%11%19%18%20%18%18%23%22%18%26%31%27%27%2%1%3%3%4%2%2%2%7%5%9%4%5%14%12%4%9%12%7%10%Reduce waste by recycling & compostingProvide equitable access to parks & natureIncrease four‐season recreation opportunitiesBuy land for open space, trails, & the environmentDevelop new recreational facilities & amenitiesBuy land for new recreational facilities0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%Very Important Important Somewhat Important Not ImportantManage freshwater & stormwater resources to protect water quality & reduce floodingMaintain roads, parking lots, & other park infrastructurePlant native trees & forests to improve regional climate resiliency & reduce carbonMake facilities accessible to persons of all abilitiesManage natural areas to improve habitat & connectivity for wildlifeDeliver nature, education, & recreation programs that welcome everyoneMake walking, biking, or transit connections with neighborhoods & other parksReach out to underserved communities with recreation programs & mobile recreation servicesInvest in health & wellness of our communities with active outdoor programsReach out to local communities with support for parks, trails, & natural resources managementRenovate existing facilities to be carbon neutral & environmentally sustainableImprove & add features to existing recreational facilities & amenitiesIdentify fiscally unsustainable facilities & assets & remove from serviceProvide education about & experiences with local historyOakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)31 Q14. In the past, what are ALL the ways you have heard about Oakland County Parks and Recreation?by percentage of respondents (multiple selections could be made)56%47%35%31%27%26%22%16%10%5%4%1%1%From friends, family, coworkersOakland County Parks websiteFacebookAds in a publicationFlyers & handoutsDirect mailNewspaper stories in printNewspaper stories onlineRadio storiesInstagramTwitterYouTube0%15% 30% 45% 60%I haven't heard about Oakland County Parks & Recreation from any of theseOakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)32 Q15. Level of Satisfaction with Overall Value Households Recieve from Parks and Recreation CommissionSomewhat satisfied40%Neutral25%Somewhat dissatisfied7%Very dissatisfied4%Very satisfied24%by percentage of respondents (excluding “don’t know”)Oakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)33 Q16. Overall, how would you rate the physical condition of ALL the Oakland County Parks and Recreation parks and facilities that you have visited?Good65%Fair14%Poor2%Excellent19%by percentage of respondents (excluding “don’t know”)Oakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)34 Q17. Respondent Age18‐3419%35‐4419%45‐5419%55‐6422%65+21%by percentage of respondents (excluding “not provided”)Oakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)35 Q18. Counting yourself, how many people in your household are in the following age groups?55‐6418%35‐4412%45‐5413%18‐246%65‐7411%15‐195%25‐3410%10‐145%5‐96%Under 56%75+7%by percentage of persons in householdOakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)36 Q19. Which of the following best describes your race or ethnicity?by percentage of respondents (mulitple selections could be made)73.9%13.7%8.5%4.6%0.8%0.7%WhiteBlack or African AmericanAsian or Asian IndianHispanic, Spanish, or Latino/a/xOtherAmerican Indian or Alaska Native0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%Oakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)37 Q20. What is your household income?Under $50K26%$100K to $149,99921%$50K to $99,99934%$150K+20%by percentage of respondents (excluding “not provided”)Oakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)38 Q21. Your gender:Male49%Female51%by percentage of respondents (excluding “not provided”)Oakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)39 Priority Investment Ratings3 Priority Investment Rating Oakland County, Michigan The Priority Investment Rating (PIR) was developed by ETC Institute to provide governments with an objective tool for evaluating the priority that should be placed on parks and recreation investments. The Priority Investment Rating was developed by ETC Institute to identify the facilities and programs residents think should receive the highest priority for investment. The priority investment rating reflects the importance residents place on items (sum of top 4 choices) and the unmet needs (needs that are not met or only partly met) for each facility/program relative to the facility/program that rated the highest overall. Since decisions related to future investments should consider both the level of unmet need and the importance of facilities and programs, the PIR weights each of these components equally. The PIR reflects the sum of the Unmet Needs Rating and the Importance Rating as shown in the equation below: PIR = UNR + IR For example, if the Unmet Needs Rating for Community Gardens were 98.9 (out of 100) and the Importance Rating for Community Gardens were 21.6 (out of 100), the Priority Investment Rating for the Farmer’s Market would be 120.5 (out of 200). How to Analyze the Charts: High Priority Areas are those with a PIR of at least 100. A rating of 100 or above generally indicates there is a relatively high level of unmet need and residents generally think it is important to fund improvements in these areas. Improvements in this area are likely to have a positive impact on the greatest number of households. Medium Priority Areas are those with a PIR of 50‐99. A rating in this range generally indicates there is a medium to high level of unmet need or a significant percentage of residents generally think it is important to fund improvements in these areas. Low Priority Areas are those with a PIR below 50. A rating in this range generally indicates there is a relatively low level of unmet need and residents do not think it is important to fund improvements in these areas. Improvements may be warranted if the needs of very specialized populations are being targeted. The following pages show the Unmet Needs Rating, Importance Rating, and Priority Investment Rating for facilities and programs. Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)41 Unmet Needs Rating for Facilitiesthe rating for the item with the most unmet need=100 the rating of all other items reflects the relative amount of unmet need for each item compared to the item with the most unmet need100.095.388.075.671.671.671.368.267.866.866.264.157.957.357.153.851.546.342.241.939.839.338.738.436.835.835.534.626.724.524.523.623.121.120.019.118.516.214.110.7BeachesIndoor aquatic centersAdult fitness equipmentSledding hillsFarmers marketsCamping areas & cabinsCanoe & kayak launch sitesNature centersRiver access for canoeing, kayakingSplash pads & spray parksTrails‐hikingWaterparks & waterslidesIndoor recreation centersNatural areas & open spaceDog parksPicnic tables, grills, & benchesBoating & fishing areasZip linesOutdoor pavilions to rent for eventsGolf driving rangesTrails–accessibleIndoor ice rinks & arenasIndoor event rental spacePlaygroundsRopes coursesOutdoor pickleball courtsBanquet facilitiesArchery rangeTrails‐mountain bikingGolf courses 18‐holeDisc golfGolf courses 9‐holeOutdoor tennis courtsHunting areasOff‐road vehicle areasEquestrian centers & facilitiesOutdoor basketball courtsSports fields‐soccer & cricketBaseball & softball diamondsTrails‐equestrian0.020.040.060.080.0100.0Oakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)42 Importance Rating for Facilitiesthe rating for the item rated as the most important=100 the rating of all other items reflects the relative level of importance for each item compared to the item rated as the most important100.085.081.974.554.045.142.942.936.535.933.431.931.026.724.220.919.917.817.513.812.612.311.010.710.49.89.29.28.68.07.16.45.85.85.54.33.73.43.42.5Trails‐hikingFarmers marketsBeachesNatural areas & open spaceDog parksCamping areas & cabinsCanoe & kayak launch sitesPlaygroundsGolf courses 18‐holeNature centersAdult fitness equipmentIndoor aquatic centersPicnic tables, grills, & benchesBoating & fishing areasGolf courses 9‐holeTrails–accessibleTrails‐mountain bikingWaterparks & waterslidesSplash pads & spray parksIndoor recreation centersOutdoor pickleball courtsRiver access for canoeing, kayakingDisc golfGolf driving rangesBanquet facilitiesOutdoor pavilions to rent for eventsSledding hillsIndoor event rental spaceBaseball & softball diamondsArchery rangeHunting areasSports fields‐soccer & cricketEquestrian centers & facilitiesIndoor ice rinks & arenasOutdoor tennis courtsZip linesTrails‐equestrianOff‐road vehicle areasOutdoor basketball courtsRopes courses0.020.040.060.080.0100.0Oakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)43 182 166 157 132 127 121 117 114 111 104 85 85 84 82 81 80 78 72 61 61 53 52 51 48 48 48 47 46 45 43 39 36 29 28 25 23 23 23 22 14 BeachesTrails‐hikingFarmers marketsNatural areas & open spaceIndoor aquatic centersAdult fitness equipmentCamping areas & cabinsCanoe & kayak launch sitesDog parksNature centersSledding hillsPicnic tables, grills, & benchesSplash pads & spray parksWaterparks & waterslidesPlaygroundsRiver access for canoeing, kayakingBoating & fishing areasIndoor recreation centersGolf courses 18‐holeTrails–accessibleGolf driving rangesOutdoor pavilions to rent for eventsZip linesOutdoor pickleball courtsIndoor event rental spaceGolf courses 9‐holeTrails‐mountain bikingBanquet facilitiesIndoor ice rinks & arenasArchery rangeRopes coursesDisc golfOutdoor tennis courtsHunting areasEquestrian centers & facilitiesOff‐road vehicle areasBaseball & softball diamondsSports fields‐soccer & cricketOutdoor basketball courtsTrails‐equestrian0 50 100 150 200 Top Priorities for Investment for FacilitiesBased on the Priority Investment RatingMedium Priority(50‐99)Low Priority (0‐50)High Priority (100+)Oakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)44 Unmet Needs Rating for Programsthe rating for the item with the most unmet need=100 the rating of all other items reflects the relative amount of unmet need for each item compared to the item with the most unmet need100.070.169.167.461.955.555.353.049.646.243.837.634.831.829.427.327.126.326.026.022.821.517.216.916.713.59.59.3Adult fitness & wellness programsCommunity festivalsFood truck ralliesFarmers market programsArt/antique/craft showsArt & photography programsWinter programsKayak, canoe, paddleboard rentalsWater fitness programsNature education programsBird/wildlife watching programsVolunteer opportunitiesCampground programsBus tripsCitizen science programsYouth swim lessonsBefore & after school programsNature stewardship programsFishing programsGolf programs & eventsYouth summer campsArchery programsYouth fitness programsAdaptive programsPre‐school programsHomeschool programsScouting programsMobile unit rentals0.020.040.060.080.0100.0Oakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)45 Importance Rating for Programsthe rating for the item rated as the most important=100 the rating of all other items reflects the relative level of importance for each item compared to the item rated as the most important100.075.357.848.240.137.737.033.732.830.727.124.723.518.718.117.817.215.715.715.412.712.011.410.29.99.07.23.0Farmers market programsAdult fitness & wellness programsCommunity festivalsArt/antique/craft showsNature education programsKayak, canoe, paddleboard rentalsFood truck ralliesGolf programs & eventsBird/wildlife watching programsWinter programsCampground programsArt & photography programsWater fitness programsBus tripsFishing programsVolunteer opportunitiesYouth swim lessonsBefore & after school programsNature stewardship programsYouth summer campsPre‐school programsAdaptive programsCitizen science programsArchery programsYouth fitness programsHomeschool programsScouting programsMobile unit rentals0.020.040.060.080.0100.0Oakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)46 175 167 128 110 106 91 86 86 80 77 73 62 60 55 51 45 44 43 42 41 38 32 29 29 27 23 17 12 Adult fitness & wellness programsFarmers market programsCommunity festivalsArt/antique/craft showsFood truck ralliesKayak, canoe, paddleboard rentalsNature education programsWinter programsArt & photography programsBird/wildlife watching programsWater fitness programsCampground programsGolf programs & eventsVolunteer opportunitiesBus tripsYouth swim lessonsFishing programsBefore & after school programsNature stewardship programsCitizen science programsYouth summer campsArchery programsPre‐school programsAdaptive programsYouth fitness programsHomeschool programsScouting programsMobile unit rentals0 50 100 150 200 Top Priorities for Investment for ProgramsBased on the Priority Investment RatingMedium Priority(50‐99)Low Priority (0‐50)High Priority (100+)Oakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)47 Benchmarks4 Oakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)49 by percentage of respondentsWays households learn about Parks and Recreation56%47%35%27%4%1%45%34%36%19%3%2%From friends, family, coworkersParks websiteFacebookFlyers & handoutsInstagramTwitter0%15%30%45%60%Oakland County (2022) National AverageOakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)50 by percentage of respondentsRespondents with Need for Parks and Recreation Facilities48%39%31%29%28%27%26%23%22%20%17%12%11%11%9%8%7%7%50%47%38%29%28%44%37%31%25%46%31%21%13%12%17%19%20%20%Natural areas & open spaceNature centersPlaygroundsCanoe & kayak launch sitesDog parksAdult fitness equipmentIndoor aquatic centersBoating & fishing areasSplash pads & spray parksOutdoor pavilionsIndoor recreation areasIndoor ice rinks & arenasDisc golfPickleball courtsBaseball/softball diamondsSports fields ‐ soccer & cricketOutdoor basketball courtsTennis courts0%10%20%30%40%50%Oakland County (2022) National AverageOakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)51 by percentage of respondentsRespondents with Need for Recreation Programs40%32%22%18%15%11%11%11%10%8%7%7%46%37%29%26%16%18%22%15%18%17%12%11%Adult fitness and wellness programsCommunity festivalsNature education programsWater fitness programsGolf programs and eventsBus tripsYouth swim lessonsBefore & after school programsYouth summer campsYouth fitness programsPreschool programsAdaptive programs0%10%20%30%40%50%Oakland County (2022) National AverageOakland County, MI 2022 SurveyETC Institute (2022)52 Tabular Data5 Q1. From the following list, please check ALL the Oakland County parks you or members of your household have visited over the past 12 months. Q1. All the Oakland County parks members of your household have visited over past 12 months Number Percent Addison Oaks 209 19.9 % Catalpa Oaks 113 10.8 % Glen Oaks 75 7.2 % Groveland Oaks 134 12.8 % Highland Oaks 76 7.3 % Holly Oaks 83 7.9 % Independence Oaks 355 33.9 % Lyon Oaks 107 10.2 % Oakland County Farmers Market 397 37.9 % Oakland County Parks event or programs at community location 209 19.9 % Orion Oaks 149 14.2 % Red Oaks 173 16.5 % Rose Oaks 32 3.1 % Springfield 113 10.8 % Waterford Oaks 192 18.3 % White Lake Oaks 99 9.4 % Other 53 5.1 % None. We do not use any Oakland County parks or facilities 170 16.2 % Total 2739 (WITHOUT "NONE") Q1. From the following list, please check ALL the Oakland County parks you or members of your household have visited over the past 12 months. (without "none") Q1. All the Oakland County parks members of your household have visited over past 12 months Number Percent Addison Oaks 209 23.8 % Catalpa Oaks 113 12.9 % Glen Oaks 75 8.5 % Groveland Oaks 134 15.3 % Highland Oaks 76 8.7 % Holly Oaks 83 9.5 % Independence Oaks 355 40.4 % Lyon Oaks 107 12.2 % Oakland County Farmers Market 397 45.2 % Oakland County Parks event or programs at community location 209 23.8 % Orion Oaks 149 17.0 % Red Oaks 173 19.7 % Rose Oaks 32 3.6 % Springfield 113 12.9 % Waterford Oaks 192 21.9 % White Lake Oaks 99 11.3 % Other 53 6.0 % Total 2569 Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)54 Q2. Which of the parks from the list above does your household use MOST OFTEN? Q2. Top choice Number Percent Addison Oaks 72 8.2 % Catalpa Oaks 57 6.5 % Glen Oaks 11 1.3 % Groveland Oaks 29 3.3 % Highland Oaks 19 2.2 % Holly Oaks 10 1.1 % Independence Oaks 158 18.0 % Lyon Oaks 41 4.7 % Oakland County Farmers Market 126 14.4 % Oakland County Parks event or programs at community location 45 5.1 % Orion Oaks 44 5.0 % Red Oaks 91 10.4 % Rose Oaks 13 1.5 % Springfield 28 3.2 % Waterford Oaks 49 5.6 % White Lake Oaks 11 1.3 % Other 20 2.3 % None chosen 54 6.2 % Total 878 100.0 % Q2. Which of the parks from the list above does your household use MOST OFTEN? Q2. 2nd choice Number Percent Addison Oaks 47 5.4 % Catalpa Oaks 23 2.6 % Glen Oaks 18 2.1 % Groveland Oaks 33 3.8 % Highland Oaks 12 1.4 % Holly Oaks 19 2.2 % Independence Oaks 77 8.8 % Lyon Oaks 20 2.3 % Oakland County Farmers Market 120 13.7 % Oakland County Parks event or programs at community location 50 5.7 % Orion Oaks 51 5.8 % Red Oaks 38 4.3 % Rose Oaks 3 0.3 % Springfield 24 2.7 % Waterford Oaks 45 5.1 % White Lake Oaks 26 3.0 % Other 14 1.6 % None chosen 258 29.4 % Total 878 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)55 Q2. Which of the parks from the list above does your household use MOST OFTEN? Q2. 3rd choice Number Percent Addison Oaks 34 3.9 % Catalpa Oaks 4 0.5 % Glen Oaks 13 1.5 % Groveland Oaks 19 2.2 % Highland Oaks 9 1.0 % Holly Oaks 15 1.7 % Independence Oaks 56 6.4 % Lyon Oaks 10 1.1 % Oakland County Farmers Market 69 7.9 % Oakland County Parks event or programs at community location 38 4.3 % Orion Oaks 25 2.8 % Red Oaks 19 2.2 % Rose Oaks 3 0.3 % Springfield 24 2.7 % Waterford Oaks 39 4.4 % White Lake Oaks 23 2.6 % Other 3 0.3 % None chosen 475 54.1 % Total 878 100.0 % Q2. Which of the parks from the list above does your household use MOST OFTEN? Q2. 4th choice Number Percent Addison Oaks 22 2.5 % Catalpa Oaks 5 0.6 % Glen Oaks 6 0.7 % Groveland Oaks 20 2.3 % Highland Oaks 4 0.5 % Holly Oaks 10 1.1 % Independence Oaks 18 2.1 % Lyon Oaks 7 0.8 % Oakland County Farmers Market 21 2.4 % Oakland County Parks event or programs at community location 22 2.5 % Orion Oaks 8 0.9 % Red Oaks 8 0.9 % Rose Oaks 1 0.1 % Springfield 19 2.2 % Waterford Oaks 25 2.8 % White Lake Oaks 8 0.9 % None chosen 674 76.8 % Total 878 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)56 (SUM OF TOP 4) Q2. Which of the parks from the list above does your household use MOST OFTEN? (top 4) Q2. Top choice Number Percent Addison Oaks 175 19.9 % Catalpa Oaks 89 10.1 % Glen Oaks 48 5.5 % Groveland Oaks 101 11.5 % Highland Oaks 44 5.0 % Holly Oaks 54 6.2 % Independence Oaks 309 35.2 % Lyon Oaks 78 8.9 % Oakland County Farmers Market 336 38.3 % Oakland County Parks event or programs at community location 155 17.7 % Orion Oaks 128 14.6 % Red Oaks 156 17.8 % Rose Oaks 20 2.3 % Springfield 95 10.8 % Waterford Oaks 158 18.0 % White Lake Oaks 68 7.7 % Other 37 4.2 % None chosen 54 6.2 % Total 2105 Q3. In the past 12 months, how often have you or other members of your family visited one or more of the Oakland County Parks and Recreation parks listed above? Q3. How often have you visited one or more parks in past 12 months Number Percent I have not visited an Oakland County park in past 12 months 45 5.1 % Less than once a month 346 39.4 % 1-3 times a month 299 34.1 % Once a week 81 9.2 % 2-4 times a week 78 8.9 % 5+ times a week 19 2.2 % Not provided 10 1.1 % Total 878 100.0 % (WITHOUT "NOT PROVIDED") Q3. In the past 12 months, how often have you or other members of your family visited one or more of the Oakland County Parks and Recreation parks listed above? (without "not provided") Q3. How often have you visited one or more parks in past 12 months Number Percent I have not visited an Oakland County park in past 12 months 45 5.2 % Less than once a month 346 39.9 % 1-3 times a month 299 34.4 % Once a week 81 9.3 % 2-4 times a week 78 9.0 % 5+ times a week 19 2.2 % Total 868 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)57 Q4. Please indicate if you or other members of your household have a need for each of the facilities listed below. (N=1048) Yes No Q4-1. Adult fitness equipment 27.1% 72.9% Q4-2. Archery range 10.4% 89.6% Q4-3. Banquet facilities 13.1% 86.9% Q4-4. Baseball & softball diamonds 9.4% 90.6% Q4-5. Beaches 44.3% 55.7% Q4-6. Boating & fishing areas 23.3% 76.7% Q4-7. Camping areas & cabins 29.8% 70.2% Q4-8. Canoe & kayak launch sites 28.5% 71.5% Q4-9. Disc golf 11.0% 89.0% Q4-10. Dog parks 27.9% 72.1% Q4-11. Equestrian centers & facilities 6.1% 93.9% Q4-12. Farmers markets 51.5% 48.5% Q4-13. Golf courses–18-hole 19.6% 80.4% Q4-14. Golf courses–9-hole 18.3% 81.7% Q4-15. Golf driving ranges 16.2% 83.8% Q4-16. Hunting areas 6.6% 93.4% Q4-17. Indoor aquatic centers 26.0% 74.0% Q4-18. Indoor event rental space 11.9% 88.1% Q4-19. Indoor ice rinks & arenas 12.4% 87.6% Q4-20. Indoor recreation centers 17.3% 82.7% Q4-21. Natural areas & open space 48.3% 51.7% Q4-22. Nature centers 39.3% 60.7% Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)58 Q4. Please indicate if you or other members of your household have a need for each of the facilities listed below. Yes No Q4-23. Off-road vehicle areas 6.2% 93.8% Q4-24. Outdoor basketball courts 7.3% 92.7% Q4-25. Outdoor pickleball courts 10.8% 89.2% Q4-26. Outdoor tennis courts 7.9% 92.1% Q4-27. Picnic tables, grills, & benches 34.3% 65.7% Q4-28. Outdoor pavilions to rent for events 20.0% 80.0% Q4-29. Playgrounds 30.7% 69.3% Q4-30. River access for canoeing, kayaking 24.9% 75.1% Q4-31. Ropes courses 9.7% 90.3% Q4-32. Sledding hills 24.5% 75.5% Q4-33. Splash pads & spray parks 21.9% 78.1% Q4-34. Sports fields-soccer & cricket 8.1% 91.9% Q4-35. Trails–equestrian 5.0% 95.0% Q4-36. Trails–hiking 49.0% 51.0% Q4-37. Trails–mountain biking 13.5% 86.5% Q4-38. Trails–accessible 20.2% 79.8% Q4-39. Waterparks & waterslides 25.0% 75.0% Q4-40. Zip lines 11.8% 88.2% Q4-41. Other 5.0% 95.0% Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)59 Q4. If "Yes," please rate how well the needs of your household are currently being met in Southeast Michigan using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means all (100%) of your needs are being met and 1 means none (0%) of your needs are being met. (N=994) 100% met 75% met 50% met 25% met 0% met Q4-1. Adult fitness equipment 14.9% 10.6% 24.3% 17.0% 33.2% Q4-2. Archery range 12.4% 11.2% 14.6% 23.6% 38.2% Q4-3. Banquet facilities 19.4% 18.5% 25.0% 20.4% 16.7% Q4-4. Baseball & softball diamonds 33.3% 32.1% 16.7% 10.7% 7.1% Q4-5. Beaches 22.5% 25.7% 24.2% 17.8% 9.8% Q4-6. Boating & fishing areas 21.7% 27.6% 26.7% 16.6% 7.4% Q4-7. Camping areas & cabins 22.3% 22.7% 27.7% 16.2% 11.2% Q4-8. Canoe & kayak launch sites 19.3% 23.3% 24.1% 24.5% 8.8% Q4-9. Disc golf 17.0% 31.9% 18.1% 21.3% 11.7% Q4-10. Dog parks 29.7% 23.3% 16.1% 18.9% 12.0% Q4-11. Equestrian centers & facilities 12.0% 16.0% 24.0% 28.0% 20.0% Q4-12. Farmers markets 38.3% 29.8% 18.1% 9.7% 4.1% Q4-13. Golf courses-18-hole 45.2% 26.1% 13.8% 9.6% 5.3% Q4-14. Golf courses-9-hole 52.3% 18.0% 15.7% 8.7% 5.2% Q4-15. Golf driving ranges 20.7% 20.0% 20.7% 13.8% 24.8% Q4-16. Hunting areas 15.0% 11.7% 23.3% 30.0% 20.0% Q4-17. Indoor aquatic centers 8.8% 7.0% 15.0% 21.1% 48.0% Q4-18. Indoor event rental space 9.8% 15.7% 26.5% 26.5% 21.6% Q4-19. Indoor ice rinks & arenas 10.4% 17.0% 12.3% 23.6% 36.8% Q4-20. Indoor recreation centers 10.3% 12.9% 24.5% 21.3% 31.0% Q4-21. Natural areas & open space 44.1% 28.7% 17.1% 8.1% 2.0% Q4-22. Nature centers 33.6% 26.6% 22.4% 9.8% 7.6% Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)60 Q4. If "Yes," please rate how well the needs of your household are currently being met in Southeast Michigan using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means all (100%) of your needs are being met and 1 means none (0%) of your needs are being met. 100% met 75% met 50% met 25% met 0% met Q4-23. Off-road vehicle areas 12.1% 13.8% 22.4% 20.7% 31.0% Q4-24. Outdoor basketball courts 17.7% 24.2% 27.4% 19.4% 11.3% Q4-25. Outdoor pickleball courts 8.0% 16.0% 22.0% 22.0% 32.0% Q4-26. Outdoor tennis courts 16.4% 16.4% 26.9% 26.9% 13.4% Q4-27. Picnic tables, grills, & benches 30.4% 33.7% 22.8% 10.6% 2.6% Q4-28. Outdoor pavilions to rent for events 28.0% 23.6% 30.8% 14.3% 3.3% Q4-29. Playgrounds 37.8% 33.6% 17.5% 7.7% 3.5% Q4-30. River access for canoeing, kayaking 14.6% 23.0% 25.4% 22.5% 14.6% Q4-31. Ropes courses 5.2% 7.8% 14.3% 27.3% 45.5% Q4-32. Sledding hills 11.6% 17.6% 28.2% 30.1% 12.5% Q4-33. Splash pads & spray parks 15.3% 14.8% 28.1% 25.6% 16.3% Q4-34. Sports fields-soccer & cricket 35.5% 18.4% 27.6% 14.5% 3.9% Q4-35. Trails-equestrian 15.6% 35.6% 20.0% 17.8% 11.1% Q4-36. Trails-hiking 39.0% 29.9% 20.8% 8.2% 2.0% Q4-37. Trails-mountain biking 22.7% 31.9% 27.7% 10.1% 7.6% Q4-38. Trails-accessible 30.7% 24.0% 22.9% 15.6% 6.7% Q4-39. Waterparks & waterslides 22.0% 19.3% 22.9% 23.8% 12.1% Q4-40. Zip lines 4.0% 6.0% 12.0% 24.0% 54.0% Q4-41. Other 8.1% 13.5% 16.2% 24.3% 37.8% Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)61 Q5. Regardless of their current availability in Southeast Michigan, which FOUR of the facilities listed in Question 4 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household? Q5. Top choice Number Percent Adult fitness equipment 57 5.4 % Archery range 8 0.8 % Banquet facilities 9 0.9 % Baseball & softball diamonds 8 0.8 % Beaches 107 10.2 % Boating & fishing areas 34 3.2 % Camping areas & cabins 50 4.8 % Canoe & kayak launch sites 27 2.6 % Disc golf 8 0.8 % Dog parks 52 5.0 % Equestrian centers & facilities 6 0.6 % Farmers markets 77 7.3 % Golf courses-18-hole 48 4.6 % Golf courses-9-hole 37 3.5 % Golf driving ranges 1 0.1 % Hunting areas 4 0.4 % Indoor aquatic centers 24 2.3 % Indoor event rental space 5 0.5 % Indoor ice rinks & arenas 2 0.2 % Indoor recreation centers 9 0.9 % Natural areas & open space 71 6.8 % Nature centers 13 1.2 % Off-road vehicle areas 3 0.3 % Outdoor basketball courts 1 0.1 % Outdoor pickleball courts 7 0.7 % Outdoor tennis courts 2 0.2 % Picnic tables, grills, & benches 14 1.3 % Outdoor pavilions to rent for events 1 0.1 % Playgrounds 43 4.1 % River access for canoeing, kayaking 3 0.3 % Splash pads & spray parks 7 0.7 % Sports fields-soccer & cricket 12 1.1 % Trails-equestrian 5 0.5 % Trails-hiking 125 11.9 % Trails-mountain biking 28 2.7 % Trails-accessible 19 1.8 % Waterparks & waterslides 14 1.3 % Zip lines 2 0.2 % None chosen 105 10.0 % Total 1048 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)62 Q5. Regardless of their current availability in Southeast Michigan, which FOUR of the facilities listed in Question 4 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household? Q5. 2nd choice Number Percent Adult fitness equipment 21 2.0 % Archery range 8 0.8 % Banquet facilities 9 0.9 % Baseball & softball diamonds 4 0.4 % Beaches 78 7.4 % Boating & fishing areas 20 1.9 % Camping areas & cabins 37 3.5 % Canoe & kayak launch sites 50 4.8 % Disc golf 11 1.0 % Dog parks 58 5.5 % Equestrian centers & facilities 3 0.3 % Farmers markets 79 7.5 % Golf courses-18-hole 44 4.2 % Golf courses-9-hole 28 2.7 % Golf driving ranges 8 0.8 % Hunting areas 10 1.0 % Indoor aquatic centers 21 2.0 % Indoor event rental space 8 0.8 % Indoor ice rinks & arenas 7 0.7 % Indoor recreation centers 13 1.2 % Natural areas & open space 74 7.1 % Nature centers 36 3.4 % Off-road vehicle areas 5 0.5 % Outdoor basketball courts 3 0.3 % Outdoor pickleball courts 17 1.6 % Outdoor tennis courts 3 0.3 % Picnic tables, grills, & benches 19 1.8 % Outdoor pavilions to rent for events 6 0.6 % Playgrounds 32 3.1 % River access for canoeing, kayaking 11 1.0 % Sledding hills 6 0.6 % Splash pads & spray parks 18 1.7 % Sports fields-soccer & cricket 3 0.3 % Trails-equestrian 2 0.2 % Trails-hiking 93 8.9 % Trails-mountain biking 18 1.7 % Trails-accessible 18 1.7 % Waterparks & waterslides 12 1.1 % Zip lines 1 0.1 % None chosen 154 14.7 % Total 1048 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)63 Q5. Regardless of their current availability in Southeast Michigan, which FOUR of the facilities listed in Question 4 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household? Q5. 3rd choice Number Percent Adult fitness equipment 17 1.6 % Archery range 5 0.5 % Banquet facilities 10 1.0 % Baseball & softball diamonds 6 0.6 % Beaches 51 4.9 % Boating & fishing areas 25 2.4 % Camping areas & cabins 38 3.6 % Canoe & kayak launch sites 34 3.2 % Disc golf 11 1.0 % Dog parks 47 4.5 % Equestrian centers & facilities 4 0.4 % Farmers markets 68 6.5 % Golf courses-18-hole 22 2.1 % Golf courses-9-hole 16 1.5 % Golf driving ranges 11 1.0 % Hunting areas 4 0.4 % Indoor aquatic centers 44 4.2 % Indoor event rental space 6 0.6 % Indoor ice rinks & arenas 3 0.3 % Indoor recreation centers 11 1.0 % Natural areas & open space 68 6.5 % Nature centers 33 3.1 % Off-road vehicle areas 2 0.2 % Outdoor basketball courts 5 0.5 % Outdoor pickleball courts 14 1.3 % Outdoor tennis courts 7 0.7 % Picnic tables, grills, & benches 39 3.7 % Outdoor pavilions to rent for events 11 1.0 % Playgrounds 40 3.8 % River access for canoeing, kayaking 12 1.1 % Ropes courses 5 0.5 % Sledding hills 7 0.7 % Splash pads & spray parks 19 1.8 % Sports fields-soccer & cricket 4 0.4 % Trails-equestrian 4 0.4 % Trails-hiking 71 6.8 % Trails-mountain biking 9 0.9 % Trails-accessible 17 1.6 % Waterparks & waterslides 13 1.2 % Zip lines 3 0.3 % None chosen 232 22.1 % Total 1048 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)64 Q5. Regardless of their current availability in Southeast Michigan, which FOUR of the facilities listed in Question 4 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household? Q5. 4th choice Number Percent Adult fitness equipment 20 1.9 % Archery range 5 0.5 % Banquet facilities 6 0.6 % Baseball & softball diamonds 11 1.0 % Beaches 44 4.2 % Boating & fishing areas 13 1.2 % Camping areas & cabins 29 2.8 % Canoe & kayak launch sites 36 3.4 % Disc golf 8 0.8 % Dog parks 27 2.6 % Equestrian centers & facilities 6 0.6 % Farmers markets 67 6.4 % Golf courses-18-hole 10 1.0 % Golf courses-9-hole 2 0.2 % Golf driving ranges 17 1.6 % Hunting areas 5 0.5 % Indoor aquatic centers 20 1.9 % Indoor event rental space 12 1.1 % Indoor ice rinks & arenas 7 0.7 % Indoor recreation centers 15 1.4 % Natural areas & open space 41 3.9 % Nature centers 42 4.0 % Off-road vehicle areas 1 0.1 % Outdoor basketball courts 2 0.2 % Outdoor pickleball courts 5 0.5 % Outdoor tennis courts 6 0.6 % Picnic tables, grills, & benches 35 3.3 % Outdoor pavilions to rent for events 16 1.5 % Playgrounds 31 3.0 % River access for canoeing, kayaking 17 1.6 % Ropes courses 3 0.3 % Sledding hills 18 1.7 % Splash pads & spray parks 16 1.5 % Sports fields-soccer & cricket 3 0.3 % Trails-equestrian 1 0.1 % Trails-hiking 52 5.0 % Trails-mountain biking 13 1.2 % Trails-accessible 18 1.7 % Waterparks & waterslides 23 2.2 % Zip lines 8 0.8 % None chosen 337 32.2 % Total 1048 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)65 (SUM OF TOP 4) Q5. Regardless of their current availability in Southeast Michigan, which FOUR of the facilities listed in Question 4 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household? (top 4) Q5. Top choice Number Percent Adult fitness equipment 115 11.0 % Archery range 26 2.5 % Banquet facilities 34 3.2 % Baseball & softball diamonds 29 2.8 % Beaches 280 26.7 % Boating & fishing areas 92 8.8 % Camping areas & cabins 154 14.7 % Canoe & kayak launch sites 147 14.0 % Disc golf 38 3.6 % Dog parks 184 17.6 % Equestrian centers & facilities 19 1.8 % Farmers markets 291 27.8 % Golf courses-18-hole 124 11.8 % Golf courses-9-hole 83 7.9 % Golf driving ranges 37 3.5 % Hunting areas 23 2.2 % Indoor aquatic centers 109 10.4 % Indoor event rental space 31 3.0 % Indoor ice rinks & arenas 19 1.8 % Indoor recreation centers 48 4.6 % Natural areas & open space 254 24.2 % Nature centers 124 11.8 % Off-road vehicle areas 11 1.0 % Outdoor basketball courts 11 1.0 % Outdoor pickleball courts 43 4.1 % Outdoor tennis courts 18 1.7 % Picnic tables, grills, & benches 107 10.2 % Outdoor pavilions to rent for events 34 3.2 % Playgrounds 146 13.9 % River access for canoeing, kayaking 43 4.1 % Ropes courses 8 0.8 % Sledding hills 31 3.0 % Splash pads & spray parks 60 5.7 % Sports fields-soccer & cricket 22 2.1 % Trails-equestrian 12 1.1 % Trails-hiking 341 32.5 % Trails-mountain biking 68 6.5 % Trails-accessible 72 6.9 % Waterparks & waterslides 62 5.9 % Zip lines 14 1.3 % None chosen 105 10.0 % Total 3469 Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)66 Q6. In which FOUR of the facilities listed in Question 4 do you and other members of your household currently participate MOST that are offered by Oakland County Parks and Recreation? Q6. Top choice Number Percent Adult fitness equipment 19 1.8 % Archery range 3 0.3 % Banquet facilities 3 0.3 % Baseball & softball diamonds 8 0.8 % Beaches 67 6.4 % Boating & fishing areas 21 2.0 % Camping areas & cabins 34 3.2 % Canoe & kayak launch sites 24 2.3 % Disc golf 8 0.8 % Dog parks 50 4.8 % Equestrian centers & facilities 4 0.4 % Farmers markets 107 10.2 % Golf courses-18-hole 53 5.1 % Golf courses-9-hole 41 3.9 % Golf driving ranges 4 0.4 % Hunting areas 2 0.2 % Indoor aquatic centers 3 0.3 % Indoor event rental space 1 0.1 % Indoor recreation centers 3 0.3 % Natural areas & open space 63 6.0 % Nature centers 15 1.4 % Off-road vehicle areas 2 0.2 % Outdoor basketball courts 1 0.1 % Outdoor pickleball courts 4 0.4 % Outdoor tennis courts 4 0.4 % Picnic tables, grills, & benches 12 1.1 % Outdoor pavilions to rent for events 4 0.4 % Playgrounds 57 5.4 % River access for canoeing, kayaking 2 0.2 % Sledding hills 3 0.3 % Splash pads & spray parks 3 0.3 % Sports fields-soccer & cricket 12 1.1 % Trails-equestrian 5 0.5 % Trails-hiking 154 14.7 % Trails-mountain biking 22 2.1 % Trails-accessible 16 1.5 % Waterparks & waterslides 16 1.5 % None chosen 198 18.9 % Total 1048 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)67 Q6. In which FOUR of the facilities listed in Question 4 do you and other members of your household currently participate MOST that are offered by Oakland County Parks and Recreation? Q6. 2nd choice Number Percent Adult fitness equipment 16 1.5 % Archery range 3 0.3 % Banquet facilities 4 0.4 % Baseball & softball diamonds 2 0.2 % Beaches 64 6.1 % Boating & fishing areas 29 2.8 % Camping areas & cabins 25 2.4 % Canoe & kayak launch sites 27 2.6 % Disc golf 7 0.7 % Dog parks 42 4.0 % Equestrian centers & facilities 6 0.6 % Farmers markets 67 6.4 % Golf courses-18-hole 36 3.4 % Golf courses-9-hole 21 2.0 % Golf driving ranges 10 1.0 % Hunting areas 4 0.4 % Indoor aquatic centers 10 1.0 % Indoor event rental space 3 0.3 % Indoor ice rinks & arenas 2 0.2 % Indoor recreation centers 6 0.6 % Natural areas & open space 61 5.8 % Nature centers 32 3.1 % Off-road vehicle areas 1 0.1 % Outdoor basketball courts 1 0.1 % Outdoor pickleball courts 4 0.4 % Outdoor tennis courts 2 0.2 % Picnic tables, grills, & benches 21 2.0 % Outdoor pavilions to rent for events 3 0.3 % Playgrounds 24 2.3 % River access for canoeing, kayaking 5 0.5 % Sledding hills 3 0.3 % Splash pads & spray parks 11 1.0 % Sports fields-soccer & cricket 6 0.6 % Trails-equestrian 2 0.2 % Trails-hiking 85 8.1 % Trails-mountain biking 14 1.3 % Trails-accessible 14 1.3 % Waterparks & waterslides 7 0.7 % None chosen 368 35.1 % Total 1048 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)68 Q6. In which FOUR of the facilities listed in Question 4 do you and other members of your household currently participate MOST that are offered by Oakland County Parks and Recreation? Q6. 3rd choice Number Percent Adult fitness equipment 8 0.8 % Archery range 1 0.1 % Banquet facilities 4 0.4 % Baseball & softball diamonds 3 0.3 % Beaches 33 3.1 % Boating & fishing areas 23 2.2 % Camping areas & cabins 22 2.1 % Canoe & kayak launch sites 16 1.5 % Disc golf 7 0.7 % Dog parks 32 3.1 % Equestrian centers & facilities 3 0.3 % Farmers markets 50 4.8 % Golf courses-18-hole 14 1.3 % Golf courses-9-hole 8 0.8 % Golf driving ranges 6 0.6 % Hunting areas 10 1.0 % Indoor aquatic centers 8 0.8 % Indoor event rental space 6 0.6 % Indoor ice rinks & arenas 4 0.4 % Indoor recreation centers 5 0.5 % Natural areas & open space 46 4.4 % Nature centers 33 3.1 % Off-road vehicle areas 3 0.3 % Outdoor basketball courts 3 0.3 % Outdoor pickleball courts 2 0.2 % Outdoor tennis courts 6 0.6 % Picnic tables, grills, & benches 27 2.6 % Outdoor pavilions to rent for events 4 0.4 % Playgrounds 32 3.1 % River access for canoeing, kayaking 7 0.7 % Ropes courses 1 0.1 % Sledding hills 9 0.9 % Splash pads & spray parks 12 1.1 % Sports fields-soccer & cricket 5 0.5 % Trails-equestrian 1 0.1 % Trails-hiking 50 4.8 % Trails-mountain biking 13 1.2 % Trails-accessible 15 1.4 % Waterparks & waterslides 10 1.0 % Zip lines 1 0.1 % None chosen 505 48.2 % Total 1048 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)69 Q6. In which FOUR of the facilities listed in Question 4 do you and other members of your household currently participate MOST that are offered by Oakland County Parks and Recreation? Q6. 4th choice Number Percent Adult fitness equipment 6 0.6 % Archery range 3 0.3 % Banquet facilities 1 0.1 % Baseball & softball diamonds 9 0.9 % Beaches 35 3.3 % Boating & fishing areas 7 0.7 % Camping areas & cabins 20 1.9 % Canoe & kayak launch sites 26 2.5 % Disc golf 4 0.4 % Dog parks 17 1.6 % Equestrian centers & facilities 3 0.3 % Farmers markets 36 3.4 % Golf courses-18-hole 7 0.7 % Golf courses-9-hole 4 0.4 % Golf driving ranges 12 1.1 % Hunting areas 6 0.6 % Indoor aquatic centers 4 0.4 % Indoor event rental space 5 0.5 % Indoor ice rinks & arenas 1 0.1 % Indoor recreation centers 2 0.2 % Natural areas & open space 40 3.8 % Nature centers 13 1.2 % Off-road vehicle areas 1 0.1 % Outdoor basketball courts 2 0.2 % Outdoor pickleball courts 2 0.2 % Outdoor tennis courts 3 0.3 % Picnic tables, grills, & benches 31 3.0 % Outdoor pavilions to rent for events 7 0.7 % Playgrounds 20 1.9 % River access for canoeing, kayaking 15 1.4 % Ropes courses 1 0.1 % Sledding hills 15 1.4 % Splash pads & spray parks 11 1.0 % Sports fields-soccer & cricket 1 0.1 % Trails-equestrian 3 0.3 % Trails-hiking 32 3.1 % Trails-mountain biking 8 0.8 % Trails-accessible 15 1.4 % Waterparks & waterslides 12 1.1 % Zip lines 4 0.4 % None chosen 604 57.6 % Total 1048 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)70 (SUM OF TOP 4) Q6. In which FOUR of the facilities listed in Question 4 do you and other members of your household currently participate MOST that are offered by Oakland County Parks and Recreation? (top 4) Q6. Top choice Number Percent Adult fitness equipment 49 4.7 % Archery range 10 1.0 % Banquet facilities 12 1.1 % Baseball & softball diamonds 22 2.1 % Beaches 199 19.0 % Boating & fishing areas 80 7.6 % Camping areas & cabins 101 9.6 % Canoe & kayak launch sites 93 8.9 % Disc golf 26 2.5 % Dog parks 141 13.5 % Equestrian centers & facilities 16 1.5 % Farmers markets 260 24.8 % Golf courses-18-hole 110 10.5 % Golf courses-9-hole 74 7.1 % Golf driving ranges 32 3.1 % Hunting areas 22 2.1 % Indoor aquatic centers 25 2.4 % Indoor event rental space 15 1.4 % Indoor ice rinks & arenas 7 0.7 % Indoor recreation centers 16 1.5 % Natural areas & open space 210 20.0 % Nature centers 93 8.9 % Off-road vehicle areas 7 0.7 % Outdoor basketball courts 7 0.7 % Outdoor pickleball courts 12 1.1 % Outdoor tennis courts 15 1.4 % Picnic tables, grills, & benches 91 8.7 % Outdoor pavilions to rent for events 18 1.7 % Playgrounds 133 12.7 % River access for canoeing, kayaking 29 2.8 % Ropes courses 2 0.2 % Sledding hills 30 2.9 % Splash pads & spray parks 37 3.5 % Sports fields-soccer & cricket 24 2.3 % Trails-equestrian 11 1.0 % Trails-hiking 321 30.6 % Trails-mountain biking 57 5.4 % Trails-accessible 60 5.7 % Waterparks & waterslides 45 4.3 % Zip lines 5 0.5 % None chosen 198 18.9 % Total 2715 Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)71 Q7. Please indicate if you or other members of your household have a need for each of the programs listed below. (N=1048) Yes No Q7-1. Adaptive programs 6.8% 93.2% Q7-2. Adult fitness & wellness programs 40.2% 59.8% Q7-3. Archery programs 8.0% 92.0% Q7-4. Art & photography programs 18.5% 81.5% Q7-5. Art/antique/craft shows 25.1% 74.9% Q7-6. Before & after school programs 10.8% 89.2% Q7-7. Bird/wildlife watching programs 18.2% 81.8% Q7-8. Bus trips 11.2% 88.8% Q7-9. Campground programs 14.6% 85.4% Q7-10. Citizen science programs 10.0% 90.0% Q7-11. Community festivals 32.4% 67.6% Q7-12. Farmers market programs 46.2% 53.8% Q7-13. Fishing programs 10.4% 89.6% Q7-14. Food truck rallies 26.2% 73.8% Q7-15. Golf programs & events 15.0% 85.0% Q7-16. Homeschool programs 4.5% 95.5% Q7-17. Kayak, canoe, paddleboard rentals 23.9% 76.1% Q7-18. Mobile unit rentals (bouncers, zip lines, etc.) 3.6% 96.4% Q7-19. Nature education programs 21.7% 78.3% Q7-20. Nature stewardship programs 11.2% 88.8% Q7-21. Pre-school programs 7.0% 93.0% Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)72 Q7. Please indicate if you or other members of your household have a need for each of the programs listed below. Yes No Q7-22. Scouting programs 5.0% 95.0% Q7-23. Volunteer opportunities 15.4% 84.6% Q7-24. Water fitness programs 17.8% 82.2% Q7-25. Winter programs 20.9% 79.1% Q7-26. Youth fitness programs 7.6% 92.4% Q7-27. Youth summer camps 9.8% 90.2% Q7-28. Youth swim lessons 10.9% 89.1% Q7-29. Other 3.7% 96.3% Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)73 Q7. If "Yes," please rate how well the needs of your household are currently being met in Southeast Michigan using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means all (100%) of your needs are being met and 1 means none (0%) of your needs are being met. (N=923) 100% met 75% met 50% met 25% met 0% met Q7-1. Adaptive programs 8.8% 15.8% 22.8% 24.6% 28.1% Q7-2. Adult fitness & wellness programs 9.3% 15.3% 25.1% 22.6% 27.7% Q7-3. Archery programs 6.2% 12.3% 12.3% 23.1% 46.2% Q7-4. Art & photography programs 2.6% 6.5% 22.7% 26.0% 42.2% Q7-5. Art/antique/craft shows 4.5% 20.7% 33.8% 22.1% 18.9% Q7-6. Before & after school programs 11.0% 13.0% 22.0% 26.0% 28.0% Q7-7. Bird/wildlife watching programs 5.2% 21.9% 30.3% 21.3% 21.3% Q7-8. Bus trips 7.4% 6.4% 20.2% 22.3% 43.6% Q7-9. Campground programs 12.7% 15.1% 30.2% 24.6% 17.5% Q7-10. Citizen science programs 3.7% 7.3% 28.0% 25.6% 35.4% Q7-11. Community festivals 9.1% 25.4% 31.2% 21.4% 13.0% Q7-12. Farmers market programs 26.7% 29.1% 23.3% 14.4% 6.5% Q7-13. Fishing programs 9.5% 14.7% 33.7% 22.1% 20.0% Q7-14. Food truck rallies 7.1% 12.9% 23.2% 28.1% 28.6% Q7-15. Golf programs & events 27.0% 20.6% 23.4% 17.0% 12.1% Q7-16. Homeschool programs 8.8% 0.0% 26.5% 23.5% 41.2% Q7-17. Kayak, canoe, paddleboard rentals 13.2% 19.6% 22.1% 28.9% 16.2% Q7-18. Mobile unit rentals (bouncers, zip lines, etc.) 9.4% 12.5% 28.1% 18.8% 31.3% Q7-19. Nature education programs 11.3% 24.2% 32.8% 17.2% 14.5% Q7-20. Nature stewardship programs 8.9% 20.0% 32.2% 17.8% 21.1% Q7-21. Pre-school programs 20.4% 7.4% 31.5% 16.7% 24.1% Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)74 Q7. If "Yes," please rate how well the needs of your household are currently being met in Southeast Michigan using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means all (100%) of your needs are being met and 1 means none (0%) of your needs are being met. 100% met 75% met 50% met 25% met 0% met Q7-22. Scouting programs 20.0% 22.5% 22.5% 15.0% 20.0% Q7-23. Volunteer opportunities 13.4% 12.6% 29.9% 16.5% 27.6% Q7-24. Water fitness programs 8.1% 7.4% 17.6% 18.2% 48.6% Q7-25. Winter programs 8.5% 11.3% 26.0% 33.3% 20.9% Q7-26. Youth fitness programs 14.9% 16.4% 22.4% 23.9% 22.4% Q7-27. Youth summer camps 10.6% 18.8% 28.2% 27.1% 15.3% Q7-28. Youth swim lessons 12.6% 11.5% 20.7% 23.0% 32.2% Q7-29. Other 3.4% 0.0% 27.6% 31.0% 37.9% Q8. Regardless of their current availability in Southeast Michigan, which FOUR of the programs listed in Question 7 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household? Q8. Top choice Number Percent Adaptive programs 27 2.6 % Adult fitness & wellness programs 152 14.5 % Archery programs 11 1.0 % Art & photography programs 34 3.2 % Art/antique/craft shows 37 3.5 % Before & after school programs 22 2.1 % Bird/wildlife watching programs 39 3.7 % Bus trips 18 1.7 % Campground programs 31 3.0 % Citizen science programs 8 0.8 % Community festivals 40 3.8 % Farmers market programs 114 10.9 % Fishing programs 21 2.0 % Food truck rallies 20 1.9 % Golf programs & events 71 6.8 % Homeschool programs 14 1.3 % Kayak, canoe, paddleboard rentals 39 3.7 % Mobile unit rentals (bouncers, zip lines, etc.) 2 0.2 % Nature education programs 31 3.0 % Nature stewardship programs 6 0.6 % Pre-school programs 14 1.3 % Scouting programs 7 0.7 % Volunteer opportunities 6 0.6 % Water fitness programs 18 1.7 % Winter programs 9 0.9 % Youth fitness programs 11 1.0 % Youth summer camps 16 1.5 % Youth swim lessons 20 1.9 % None chosen 210 20.0 % Total 1048 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)75 Q8. Regardless of their current availability in Southeast Michigan, which FOUR of the programs listed in Question 7 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household? Q8. 2nd choice Number Percent Adaptive programs 5 0.5 % Adult fitness & wellness programs 62 5.9 % Archery programs 10 1.0 % Art & photography programs 21 2.0 % Art/antique/craft shows 59 5.6 % Before & after school programs 14 1.3 % Bird/wildlife watching programs 28 2.7 % Bus trips 21 2.0 % Campground programs 28 2.7 % Citizen science programs 13 1.2 % Community festivals 58 5.5 % Farmers market programs 106 10.1 % Fishing programs 21 2.0 % Food truck rallies 34 3.2 % Golf programs & events 20 1.9 % Homeschool programs 6 0.6 % Kayak, canoe, paddleboard rentals 35 3.3 % Mobile unit rentals (bouncers, zip lines, etc.) 1 0.1 % Nature education programs 35 3.3 % Nature stewardship programs 17 1.6 % Pre-school programs 13 1.2 % Scouting programs 3 0.3 % Volunteer opportunities 15 1.4 % Water fitness programs 19 1.8 % Winter programs 23 2.2 % Youth fitness programs 8 0.8 % Youth summer camps 14 1.3 % Youth swim lessons 14 1.3 % None chosen 345 32.9 % Total 1048 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)76 Q8. Regardless of their current availability in Southeast Michigan, which FOUR of the programs listed in Question 7 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household? Q8. 3rd choice Number Percent Adaptive programs 5 0.5 % Adult fitness & wellness programs 32 3.1 % Archery programs 10 1.0 % Art & photography programs 19 1.8 % Art/antique/craft shows 32 3.1 % Before & after school programs 12 1.1 % Bird/wildlife watching programs 25 2.4 % Bus trips 15 1.4 % Campground programs 14 1.3 % Citizen science programs 11 1.0 % Community festivals 56 5.3 % Farmers market programs 84 8.0 % Fishing programs 12 1.1 % Food truck rallies 37 3.5 % Golf programs & events 16 1.5 % Homeschool programs 8 0.8 % Kayak, canoe, paddleboard rentals 23 2.2 % Mobile unit rentals (bouncers, zip lines, etc.) 2 0.2 % Nature education programs 50 4.8 % Nature stewardship programs 19 1.8 % Pre-school programs 11 1.0 % Scouting programs 8 0.8 % Volunteer opportunities 19 1.8 % Water fitness programs 29 2.8 % Winter programs 41 3.9 % Youth fitness programs 9 0.9 % Youth summer camps 12 1.1 % Youth swim lessons 7 0.7 % None chosen 430 41.0 % Total 1048 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)77 Q8. Regardless of their current availability in Southeast Michigan, which FOUR of the programs listed in Question 7 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household? Q8. 4th choice Number Percent Adaptive programs 4 0.4 % Adult fitness & wellness programs 16 1.5 % Archery programs 4 0.4 % Art & photography programs 13 1.2 % Art/antique/craft shows 40 3.8 % Before & after school programs 7 0.7 % Bird/wildlife watching programs 22 2.1 % Bus trips 12 1.1 % Campground programs 21 2.0 % Citizen science programs 8 0.8 % Community festivals 48 4.6 % Farmers market programs 44 4.2 % Fishing programs 9 0.9 % Food truck rallies 39 3.7 % Golf programs & events 10 1.0 % Homeschool programs 3 0.3 % Kayak, canoe, paddleboard rentals 35 3.3 % Mobile unit rentals (bouncers, zip lines, etc.) 5 0.5 % Nature education programs 23 2.2 % Nature stewardship programs 13 1.2 % Pre-school programs 7 0.7 % Scouting programs 6 0.6 % Volunteer opportunities 22 2.1 % Water fitness programs 16 1.5 % Winter programs 34 3.2 % Youth fitness programs 6 0.6 % Youth summer camps 13 1.2 % Youth swim lessons 19 1.8 % None chosen 549 52.4 % Total 1048 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)78 (SUM OF TOP 4) Q8. Regardless of their current availability in Southeast Michigan, which FOUR of the programs listed in Question 7 are MOST IMPORTANT to your household? (top 4) Q8. Top choice Number Percent Adaptive programs 41 3.9 % Adult fitness & wellness programs 262 25.0 % Archery programs 35 3.3 % Art & photography programs 87 8.3 % Art/antique/craft shows 168 16.0 % Before & after school programs 55 5.2 % Bird/wildlife watching programs 114 10.9 % Bus trips 66 6.3 % Campground programs 94 9.0 % Citizen science programs 40 3.8 % Community festivals 202 19.3 % Farmers market programs 348 33.2 % Fishing programs 63 6.0 % Food truck rallies 130 12.4 % Golf programs & events 117 11.2 % Homeschool programs 31 3.0 % Kayak, canoe, paddleboard rentals 132 12.6 % Mobile unit rentals (bouncers, zip lines, etc.) 10 1.0 % Nature education programs 139 13.3 % Nature stewardship programs 55 5.2 % Pre-school programs 45 4.3 % Scouting programs 24 2.3 % Volunteer opportunities 62 5.9 % Water fitness programs 82 7.8 % Winter programs 107 10.2 % Youth fitness programs 34 3.2 % Youth summer camps 55 5.2 % Youth swim lessons 60 5.7 % None chosen 210 20.0 % Total 2868 Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)79 Q9. In which FOUR of the programs listed in Question 7 do you and other members of your household currently participate MOST that are offered by Oakland County Parks and Recreation? Q9. Top choice Number Percent Adaptive programs 6 0.6 % Adult fitness & wellness programs 59 5.6 % Archery programs 7 0.7 % Art & photography programs 9 0.9 % Art/antique/craft shows 58 5.5 % Before & after school programs 7 0.7 % Bird/wildlife watching programs 31 3.0 % Bus trips 8 0.8 % Campground programs 25 2.4 % Community festivals 56 5.3 % Farmers market programs 148 14.1 % Fishing programs 13 1.2 % Food truck rallies 12 1.1 % Golf programs & events 66 6.3 % Homeschool programs 5 0.5 % Kayak, canoe, paddleboard rentals 21 2.0 % Nature education programs 24 2.3 % Nature stewardship programs 1 0.1 % Pre-school programs 7 0.7 % Scouting programs 3 0.3 % Volunteer opportunities 4 0.4 % Water fitness programs 4 0.4 % Winter programs 12 1.1 % Youth fitness programs 7 0.7 % Youth summer camps 5 0.5 % Youth swim lessons 3 0.3 % None chosen 447 42.7 % Total 1048 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)80 Q9. In which FOUR of the programs listed in Question 7 do you and other members of your household currently participate MOST that are offered by Oakland County Parks and Recreation? Q9. 2nd choice Number Percent Adaptive programs 6 0.6 % Adult fitness & wellness programs 22 2.1 % Archery programs 2 0.2 % Art & photography programs 2 0.2 % Art/antique/craft shows 36 3.4 % Before & after school programs 7 0.7 % Bird/wildlife watching programs 20 1.9 % Bus trips 6 0.6 % Campground programs 17 1.6 % Citizen science programs 3 0.3 % Community festivals 60 5.7 % Farmers market programs 90 8.6 % Fishing programs 7 0.7 % Food truck rallies 24 2.3 % Golf programs & events 15 1.4 % Homeschool programs 1 0.1 % Kayak, canoe, paddleboard rentals 13 1.2 % Mobile unit rentals (bouncers, zip lines, etc.) 2 0.2 % Nature education programs 25 2.4 % Nature stewardship programs 5 0.5 % Pre-school programs 1 0.1 % Scouting programs 4 0.4 % Volunteer opportunities 3 0.3 % Water fitness programs 5 0.5 % Winter programs 8 0.8 % Youth fitness programs 4 0.4 % Youth summer camps 4 0.4 % Youth swim lessons 4 0.4 % None chosen 652 62.2 % Total 1048 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)81 Q9. In which FOUR of the programs listed in Question 7 do you and other members of your household currently participate MOST that are offered by Oakland County Parks and Recreation? Q9. 3rd choice Number Percent Adaptive programs 2 0.2 % Adult fitness & wellness programs 13 1.2 % Archery programs 3 0.3 % Art & photography programs 5 0.5 % Art/antique/craft shows 21 2.0 % Before & after school programs 4 0.4 % Bird/wildlife watching programs 8 0.8 % Bus trips 3 0.3 % Campground programs 12 1.1 % Citizen science programs 6 0.6 % Community festivals 42 4.0 % Farmers market programs 38 3.6 % Fishing programs 5 0.5 % Food truck rallies 20 1.9 % Golf programs & events 13 1.2 % Kayak, canoe, paddleboard rentals 24 2.3 % Mobile unit rentals (bouncers, zip lines, etc.) 2 0.2 % Nature education programs 18 1.7 % Nature stewardship programs 7 0.7 % Pre-school programs 5 0.5 % Scouting programs 2 0.2 % Volunteer opportunities 8 0.8 % Water fitness programs 8 0.8 % Winter programs 8 0.8 % Youth fitness programs 3 0.3 % Youth summer camps 5 0.5 % Youth swim lessons 4 0.4 % None chosen 759 72.4 % Total 1048 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)82 Q9. In which FOUR of the programs listed in Question 7 do you and other members of your household currently participate MOST that are offered by Oakland County Parks and Recreation? Q9. 4th choice Number Percent Adaptive programs 3 0.3 % Adult fitness & wellness programs 13 1.2 % Archery programs 4 0.4 % Art & photography programs 3 0.3 % Art/antique/craft shows 16 1.5 % Before & after school programs 4 0.4 % Bird/wildlife watching programs 6 0.6 % Bus trips 3 0.3 % Campground programs 8 0.8 % Citizen science programs 3 0.3 % Community festivals 20 1.9 % Farmers market programs 18 1.7 % Fishing programs 7 0.7 % Food truck rallies 17 1.6 % Golf programs & events 6 0.6 % Homeschool programs 1 0.1 % Kayak, canoe, paddleboard rentals 18 1.7 % Mobile unit rentals (bouncers, zip lines, etc.) 1 0.1 % Nature education programs 19 1.8 % Nature stewardship programs 7 0.7 % Pre-school programs 2 0.2 % Scouting programs 3 0.3 % Volunteer opportunities 7 0.7 % Water fitness programs 5 0.5 % Winter programs 8 0.8 % Youth fitness programs 4 0.4 % Youth summer camps 6 0.6 % Youth swim lessons 3 0.3 % None chosen 833 79.5 % Total 1048 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)83 (SUM OF TOP 4) Q9. In which FOUR of the programs listed in Question 7 do you and other members of your household currently participate MOST that are offered by Oakland County Parks and Recreation? (top 4) Q9. Top choice Number Percent Adaptive programs 17 1.6 % Adult fitness & wellness programs 107 10.2 % Archery programs 16 1.5 % Art & photography programs 19 1.8 % Art/antique/craft shows 131 12.5 % Before & after school programs 22 2.1 % Bird/wildlife watching programs 65 6.2 % Bus trips 20 1.9 % Campground programs 62 5.9 % Citizen science programs 12 1.1 % Community festivals 178 17.0 % Farmers market programs 294 28.1 % Fishing programs 32 3.1 % Food truck rallies 73 7.0 % Golf programs & events 100 9.5 % Homeschool programs 7 0.7 % Kayak, canoe, paddleboard rentals 76 7.3 % Mobile unit rentals (bouncers, zip lines, etc.) 5 0.5 % Nature education programs 86 8.2 % Nature stewardship programs 20 1.9 % Pre-school programs 15 1.4 % Scouting programs 12 1.1 % Volunteer opportunities 22 2.1 % Water fitness programs 22 2.1 % Winter programs 36 3.4 % Youth fitness programs 18 1.7 % Youth summer camps 20 1.9 % Youth swim lessons 14 1.3 % None chosen 447 42.7 % Total 1948 Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)84 Q10. People have various reasons that limit their participation in outdoor recreation. To indicate which, if any, reasons apply to you, please tell us if you strongly agree, agree, neither agree or disagree, or strongly disagree with the following statements. (N=1048) Strongly Strongly agree Agree Neutral Disagree disagree Don't know Q10-1. I don't have time 7.0% 23.1% 25.2% 22.3% 12.8% 9.6% Q10-2. I don't have enough money 8.4% 15.4% 23.0% 25.8% 18.5% 9.0% Q10-3. I don't have anyone to go with 6.5% 19.3% 21.7% 26.2% 16.8% 9.5% Q10-4. I don't have adequate transportation 2.5% 4.1% 10.1% 31.2% 42.4% 9.7% Q10-5. It's too far to travel 5.4% 15.4% 22.1% 25.4% 20.1% 11.5% Q10-6. I don't have enough information 12.0% 29.0% 21.9% 16.2% 10.5% 10.3% Q10-7. I just don't want to 1.3% 4.6% 21.0% 26.4% 33.8% 12.9% Q10-8. I don't have skills or abilities 1.3% 9.1% 22.2% 28.6% 26.6% 12.1% Q10-9. I don't feel safe because of other people that go there 1.3% 4.8% 16.6% 30.7% 34.2% 12.4% Q10-10. I or a member of my household have personal health reasons 5.2% 14.7% 11.5% 24.1% 32.9% 11.5% Q10-11. I or a member of my household have a physical disability 5.0% 13.4% 9.5% 22.9% 38.5% 10.8% Q10-12. It's too crowded 1.6% 11.1% 25.3% 28.1% 18.5% 15.4% Q10-13. There are too many rules 1.0% 4.6% 20.1% 31.9% 25.0% 17.4% Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)85 Q10. People have various reasons that limit their participation in outdoor recreation. To indicate which, if any, reasons apply to you, please tell us if you strongly agree, agree, neither agree or disagree, or strongly disagree with the following statements. Strongly Strongly agree Agree Neutral Disagree disagree Don't know Q10-14. Recreation areas are poorly maintained 2.0% 6.0% 20.0% 34.4% 19.8% 17.7% Q10-15. I don't like outdoor pests, such as mosquitos 8.3% 25.0% 22.5% 19.4% 14.3% 10.5% Q10-16. I feel unwelcome or uncomfortable 1.0% 2.8% 16.5% 35.8% 29.9% 14.0% Q10-17. Other 66.7% 33.3% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)86 (WITHOUT “DON’T KNOW") Q10. People have various reasons that limit their participation in outdoor recreation. To indicate which, if any, reasons apply to you, please tell us if you strongly agree, agree, neither agree or disagree, or strongly disagree with the following statements. (without "don't know") (N=1048) Strongly Strongly agree Agree Neutral Disagree disagree Q10-1. I don't have time 7.7% 25.6% 27.9% 24.7% 14.1% Q10-2. I don't have enough money 9.2% 16.9% 25.3% 28.3% 20.3% Q10-3. I don't have anyone to go with 7.2% 21.3% 23.9% 29.0% 18.6% Q10-4. I don't have adequate transportation 2.7% 4.5% 11.2% 34.6% 46.9% Q10-5. It's too far to travel 6.1% 17.4% 25.0% 28.7% 22.8% Q10-6. I don't have enough information 13.4% 32.3% 24.5% 18.1% 11.7% Q10-7. I just don't want to 1.5% 5.3% 24.1% 30.3% 38.8% Q10-8. I don't have skills or abilities 1.5% 10.3% 25.3% 32.6% 30.3% Q10-9. I don't feel safe because of other people that go there 1.5% 5.4% 19.0% 35.1% 39.0% Q10-10. I or a member of my household have personal health reasons 5.9% 16.6% 12.9% 27.3% 37.2% Q10-11. I or a member of my household have a physical disability 5.6% 15.0% 10.7% 25.7% 43.1% Q10-12. It's too crowded 1.9% 13.1% 29.9% 33.3% 21.9% Q10-13. There are too many rules 1.3% 5.5% 24.4% 38.6% 30.3% Q10-14. Recreation areas are poorly maintained 2.4% 7.3% 24.3% 41.8% 24.1% Q10-15. I don't like outdoor pests, such as mosquitos 9.3% 27.9% 25.2% 21.6% 16.0% Q10-16. I feel unwelcome or uncomfortable 1.2% 3.2% 19.2% 41.6% 34.7% Q10-17. Other 66.7% 33.3% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)87 Q11. Do you feel that there are sufficient parks and green space areas within a 10-minute walk of your residence? Q11. Are there sufficient parks & green space areas within a 10-minute walk of your residence Number Percent Yes 407 38.8 % No 538 51.3 % Not provided 103 9.8 % Total 1048 100.0 % (WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED”) Q11. Do you feel that there are sufficient parks and green space areas within a 10-minute walk of your residence? (without "not provided") Q11. Are there sufficient parks & green space areas within a 10-minute walk of your residence Number Percent Yes 407 43.1 % No 538 56.9 % Total 945 100.0 % Q12. Do you feel that there are sufficient parks and green space areas with a 15-minute drive of your residence? Q12. Are there sufficient parks & green space areas with a 15-minute drive of your residence Number Percent Yes 709 67.7 % No 230 21.9 % Not provided 109 10.4 % Total 1048 100.0 % (WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED”) Q12. Do you feel that there are sufficient parks and green space areas with a 15-minute drive of your residence? (without "not provided") Q12. Are there sufficient parks & green space areas with a 15-minute drive of your residence Number Percent Yes 709 75.5 % No 230 24.5 % Total 939 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)88 Q13. How important do you feel each of the following actions are to the future of Oakland County Parks and Recreation? (N=1048) Somewhat Very important Important important Not important Not provided Q13-1. Manage freshwater & stormwater resources to protect water quality & reduce flooding 70.3% 21.1% 3.3% 1.7% 3.5% Q13-2. Deliver nature, education, & recreation programs that welcome everyone 48.6% 34.1% 10.3% 2.1% 5.0% Q13-3. Reduce waste by recycling & composting 56.9% 26.2% 9.6% 2.9% 4.4% Q13-4. Maintain roads, parking lots, & other park infrastructure 58.9% 31.2% 5.2% 0.9% 3.8% Q13-5. Provide equitable access to parks & nature 54.2% 30.0% 7.4% 2.5% 5.9% Q13-6. Buy land for new recreational facilities 26.1% 26.7% 29.1% 10.8% 7.3% Q13-7. Plant native trees & forests to improve regional climate resiliency & reduce carbon 53.5% 27.0% 11.0% 3.9% 4.6% Q13-8. Reach out to underserved communities with recreation programs & mobile recreation services 35.2% 31.3% 18.3% 7.9% 7.3% Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)89 Q13. How important do you feel each of the following actions are to the future of Oakland County Parks and Recreation? Somewhat Very important Important important Not important Not provided Q13-9. Increase four-season recreation opportunities 37.2% 34.9% 16.6% 4.7% 6.6% Q13-10. Make facilities accessible to persons of all abilities 51.5% 33.4% 8.8% 1.5% 4.8% Q13-11. Develop new recreational facilities & amenities 27.6% 32.9% 24.1% 7.9% 7.4% Q13-12. Renovate existing facilities to be carbon neutral & environmentally sustainable 31.4% 27.8% 21.1% 13.0% 6.8% Q13-13. Make walking, biking, or transit connections with neighborhoods & other parks 39.9% 29.6% 17.3% 6.8% 6.5% Q13-14. Manage natural areas to improve habitat & connectivity for wildlife 49.4% 32.5% 11.4% 1.5% 5.2% Q13-15. Buy land for open space, trails, & the environment 31.1% 30.1% 20.1% 11.2% 7.5% Q13-16. Reach out to local communities with support for parks, trails, & natural resources management 34.9% 36.9% 16.7% 4.9% 6.6% Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)90 Q13. How important do you feel each of the following actions are to the future of Oakland County Parks and Recreation? Somewhat Very important Important important Not important Not provided Q13-17. Provide education about & experiences with local history 23.3% 35.9% 24.8% 9.0% 7.1% Q13-18. Identify fiscally unsustainable facilities & assets & remove from service 24.2% 35.3% 24.2% 6.5% 9.7% Q13-19. Invest in health & wellness of our communities with active outdoor programs 35.5% 37.8% 16.6% 3.4% 6.7% Q13-20. Improve & add features to existing recreational facilities & amenities 30.2% 41.9% 16.9% 3.5% 7.4% Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)91 (WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED”) Q13. How important do you feel each of the following actions are to the future of Oakland County Parks and Recreation? (without "not provided") (N=1048) Somewhat Very important Important important Not important Q13-1. Manage freshwater & stormwater resources to protect water quality & reduce flooding 72.9% 21.9% 3.5% 1.8% Q13-2. Deliver nature, education, & recreation programs that welcome everyone 51.1% 35.8% 10.8% 2.2% Q13-3. Reduce waste by recycling & composting 59.5% 27.4% 10.1% 3.0% Q13-4. Maintain roads, parking lots, & other park infrastructure 61.2% 32.4% 5.5% 0.9% Q13-5. Provide equitable access to parks & nature 57.6% 31.8% 7.9% 2.6% Q13-6. Buy land for new recreational facilities 28.2% 28.8% 31.4% 11.6% Q13-7. Plant native trees & forests to improve regional climate resiliency & reduce carbon 56.1% 28.3% 11.5% 4.1% Q13-8. Reach out to underserved communities with recreation programs & mobile recreation services 38.0% 33.7% 19.8% 8.5% Q13-9. Increase four-season recreation opportunities 39.8% 37.4% 17.8% 5.0% Q13-10. Make facilities accessible to persons of all abilities 54.1% 35.1% 9.2% 1.6% Q13-11. Develop new recreational facilities & amenities 29.8% 35.6% 26.1% 8.6% Q13-12. Renovate existing facilities to be carbon neutral & environmentally sustainable 33.7% 29.8% 22.6% 13.9% Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)92 (WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED”) Q13. How important do you feel each of the following actions are to the future of Oakland County Parks and Recreation? (without "not provided") Somewhat Very important Important important Not important Q13-13. Make walking, biking, or transit connections with neighborhoods & other parks 42.7% 31.6% 18.5% 7.2% Q13-14. Manage natural areas to improve habitat & connectivity for wildlife 52.1% 34.3% 12.0% 1.6% Q13-15. Buy land for open space, trails, & the environment 33.6% 32.5% 21.8% 12.1% Q13-16. Reach out to local communities with support for parks, trails, & natural resources management 37.4% 39.5% 17.9% 5.2% Q13-17. Provide education about & experiences with local history 25.1% 38.6% 26.7% 9.7% Q13-18. Identify fiscally unsustainable facilities & assets & remove from service 26.8% 39.1% 26.8% 7.2% Q13-19. Invest in health & wellness of our communities with active outdoor programs 38.0% 40.5% 17.8% 3.7% Q13-20. Improve & add features to existing recreational facilities & amenities 32.7% 45.3% 18.2% 3.8% Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)93 Q14. In the past, what are ALL the ways you have heard about Oakland County Parks and Recreation? Q14. All the ways you have heard about Oakland County Parks & Recreation in the past Number Percent Ads in a publication 326 31.1 % Direct mail 275 26.2 % Flyers & handouts 279 26.6 % From friends, family, coworkers 583 55.6 % Newspaper stories in print 226 21.6 % Newspaper stories online 168 16.0 % Oakland County Parks website 487 46.5 % Radio stories 54 5.2 % Facebook 364 34.7 % Instagram 46 4.4 % Twitter 8 0.8 % YouTube 6 0.6 % I haven't heard about Oakland County Parks & Recreation from any of these 104 9.9 % Total 2926 Q15. Please rate your satisfaction on a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied," with the overall value your household receives from the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission. Q15. Your satisfaction with overall value your household receives from Oakland County Parks & Recreation Commission Number Percent Very satisfied 234 22.3 % Somewhat satisfied 385 36.7 % Neutral 238 22.7 % Somewhat dissatisfied 70 6.7 % Very dissatisfied 38 3.6 % Don't know 83 7.9 % Total 1048 100.0 % (WITHOUT “DON’T KNOW”) Q15. Please rate your satisfaction on a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied," with the overall value your household receives from the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission. (without "don't know") Q15. Your satisfaction with overall value your household receives from Oakland County Parks & Recreation Commission Number Percent Very satisfied 234 24.2 % Somewhat satisfied 385 39.9 % Neutral 238 24.7 % Somewhat dissatisfied 70 7.3 % Very dissatisfied 38 3.9 % Total 965 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)94 Q16. Overall, how would you rate the physical condition of ALL the Oakland County Parks and Recreation parks and facilities that you have visited? Q16. How would you rate overall physical condition of Oakland County Parks & Recreation parks & facilities Number Percent Excellent 177 16.9 % Good 587 56.0 % Fair 126 12.0 % Poor 18 1.7 % Don't know 140 13.4 % Total 1048 100.0 % (WITHOUT “DON’T KNOW”) Q16. Overall, how would you rate the physical condition of ALL the Oakland County Parks and Recreation parks and facilities that you have visited? (without "don't know") Q16. How would you rate overall physical condition of Oakland County Parks & Recreation parks & facilities Number Percent Excellent 177 19.5 % Good 587 64.6 % Fair 126 13.9 % Poor 18 2.0 % Total 908 100.0 % Q17. What is your age? Q17. Your age Number Percent 18-34 190 18.1 % 35-44 190 18.1 % 45-54 194 18.5 % 55-64 222 21.2 % 65+ 215 20.5 % Not provided 37 3.5 % Total 1048 100.0 % (WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED”) Q17. What is your age? (without "not provided") Q17. Your age Number Percent 18-34 190 18.8 % 35-44 190 18.8 % 45-54 194 19.2 % 55-64 222 22.0 % 65+ 215 21.3 % Total 1011 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)95 Q18. Counting yourself, how many people in your household are... Mean Sum number 2.8 2757 Under age 5 0.2 169 Ages 5-9 0.2 166 Ages 10-14 0.1 133 Ages 15-19 0.1 148 Ages 20-24 0.2 166 Ages 25-34 0.3 270 Ages 35-44 0.3 332 Ages 45-54 0.4 358 Ages 55-64 0.5 507 Ages 65-74 0.3 304 Ages 75+ 0.2 204 Q19. Which of the following best describes your race/ethnicity? Q19. Your race/ethnicity Number Percent Asian or Asian Indian 89 8.5 % Black or African American 144 13.7 % American Indian or Alaska Native 7 0.7 % White 774 73.9 % Hispanic, Spanish, or Latino/a/x 48 4.6 % Other 8 0.8 % Total 1070 Q19-7. Self-describe your race/ethnicity: Q19-7. Self-describe your race/ethnicity Number Percent Mixed 3 37.5 % European 1 12.5 % ROMANIAN 1 12.5 % Hungarian 1 12.5 % Multiple races 1 12.5 % Jewish/Middle Eastern 1 12.5 % Total 8 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)96 Q20. What is your household income? Q20. Your household income Number Percent Under $50K 209 19.9 % $50K to $99,999 274 26.1 % $100K to $149,999 170 16.2 % $150K+ 164 15.6 % Not provided 231 22.0 % Total 1048 100.0 % (WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED”) Q20. What is your household income? (without "not provided") Q20. Your household income Number Percent Under $50K 209 25.6 % $50K to $99,999 274 33.5 % $100K to $149,999 170 20.8 % $150K+ 164 20.1 % Total 817 100.0 % Q21. What is your gender? Q21. Your gender Number Percent Male 512 48.9 % Female 525 50.1 % Other 4 0.4 % Not provided 7 0.7 % Total 1048 100.0 % (WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED”) Q21. What is your gender? (without "not provided") Q21. Your gender Number Percent Male 512 49.2 % Female 525 50.4 % Other 4 0.4 % Total 1041 100.0 % Q21-3. Self-describe your gender: Q21-3. Self-describe your gender Number Percent Non-binary 2 50.0 % Gender fluid 2 50.0 % Total 4 100.0 % Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)97 Open-Ended Responses6 Open‐Ended Question Responses Q1—“Other”: From the following list, please check ALL the Oakland County parks you or members of your household have visited over the past 12 months. Avondale Park, Rochester Municipal Park, Innovation Hills Park Bald Mountain Commerce Dodge Parks, Bryers Park. DAVID H SHEPHERD OAK PARK Dodge Park # 4, Grove Street Park, Marshbank park dog park/dog dock Farmington, Crammbrock FIREFIGHTERS PARK, SYLVAN GLEN, THELMA SPENCER PARK Friendship Park, Clintonville HAWTHORNE PARK Heritage park West bloomfield trail , online trail, arrowhead nature preserve trail , bike trail from west bloomfield to south lyons Highland rec proud lake. Pontiac, and the trail that used to be the rail road Highland Recreation and Dog Training Area. Holy recreation I go to the Oak Park municipal area a lot to exercise on the paved trails and swam at the pool in the summer several times. I live in a woodland area. With COVID risks, and being old and alone, I spend hours working in my woods. Independence Oaks Inglenook Kensington Kensington Lakeside Holly MI Lakeview park, Pavilion shore park local Troy Ozarks MARSH BANK PARK; BIRMINGHAM FARMERS MARKET; WALLED LAKE FARMERS MARKET Marshbank and Pavilion Shore parks Marshbanks park and Bloomer park Metro parks & city parks Normandy Oak in Royal Oak. Oakland county funds part of this park. Normandy Oaks Normandy Oaks Normandy Oaks Normandy Oaks Normandy Oaks Not this year. Orion dog park. Parks just not Oakland designated Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)99 Pontiac Lake dog park. Please, please, please, put down pea gravel by the water spicket. Regular gravel doesn’t work. Pea gravel will not affect your lawn mowers in any way. I will pay for it and do the work. Just write me a pass. Jeff. 248‐310‐1698 Pontiac Lake Recreation Pontiac Park Rec center Red Run, Memorial Park Richardson Park & Center, Milford Central Park Riverside park in Auburn Hills Rochester Parks & Firefighters Park in Troy Shepard Park Stage Nature Center, Rochester Municipal Park, Royal Oak Arboretum, Rochester Hills Innovation Hill, Beverly Park, Auburn Hills River Park STONEY CREEK METRO PARK Stony creek, in Oakland county? The one in Royal oak, forgot the name. Try parks Waterford Nature Center, Hess Hathaway Park We use City parks. We used to camp until Covid started. Q4‐“Other”: Please indicate if you or other members of your household have a need for each of the facilities listed below: Adult basketball for ages 40 plus. An indoor upscale flea market for all the small businesses in our community!! Like Ferndale's Rust Belt!! MANY small businesses I know would rent spaces for retail sales!! We NEED indoor public event areas to entertain!! Music festivals, holiday shopping, etc. Old Burks Lumber would be GREAT for that!! ATV Backpacking camping Bathrooms and decent walking trail. Better play area for neighborhood children. BICYCLE TRAILS Bicycling. Non ebike Bike trails Bike trails Bike/walking paths Community Gardens Cross country ski trails Cross country ski trails, groomed with walkers, dogs and horses prohibited. Foraging Free community nature focus classes Firepits for non campers Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)100 Dog‐friendly beaches with paddleboard and kayak rental; hiking areas (where bikes aren't allowed); other outdoor activities where [friendly, trained and well‐behaved] dogs are allowed and dog owners are required to pick up after their dogs. Farmer's markets that have organic produce and are outdoor so that dogs are allowed. Safe community activities that are inclusive and welcome diversity, where inappropriate behavior is kindly addressed and racism is not tolerated. Handicapped parking spaces Highland Recreation and Dog Training Area Hooks to tie pets for dogs sitting at the water fountain. INDOOR PICKLEBALL INDOOR PLACE TO WALK IN WINTER indoor/outdoor volleyball Laundry area. Food vendors. Beach mat. More restrooms. NON MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS Oakland County shred day Outdoor community pools Outdoor skating Paved bike paths Paved bike paths Paved bike paths Pavilions near camp ground and the astronomy site for Oakland County Astronomy Club pickleball courts Playground equipment for handicap children/adults in all parks (metro parks to would be nice). walking paths & nature trails Assessable for wheelchairs / walkers why is it so hard to understand this? Playgrounds that are enclosed and accessible to disabled children Pools ROLLER SKATING PARK Running and biking trails Running trails. Shaded walking paths. shooting range shooting range Safety paths for horses and pedestrians along the gravel roads. Natural surface, just free of trip hazards and tree limbs, so we can get off the roads, cars are going fast, blind hills, it's dangerous SAND VOLLEYBALL COURTS Somewhere a senior can go to enjoy nature and movement. Rockers & swings, nature walks under trees, cabins for seniors. SPORT SHOOTING‐CLAYS AND SKEET SWIMMING POOL FOR ROYAL OAK trails‐snowmobile Walking trails We attended the river walk at Red Oaks for six weeks. It was twice a week for the six weeks. We really enjoyed it. I wish they would offer more weeks. X‐country ski trails Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)101 Q7—“Other”: Please indicate if you or other members of your household have a need for each of the programs listed below Bicycling non ebike Bike trails & even, level, scenic, safe walkways. COED golf league. E biking is becoming very popular some place to ride and see nature off the road. Trails that will accommodate the various classes of ebikes. Entertainment Farmington hills offers much firearm safety fitness Foraging Hiking Hiking Ice fishing INDOOR PICKLEBALL INDOOR WALKING Just want to hike. More horse trail opportunities please More Senior Activities Mountain biking trails at independence oaks Need more spaces that are Dog friendly nearby Opportunities for Patriotic events … an idea. Pet friendly Pickle ball indoor and outdoor Pickle ball. Outdoor with organized drop in. Indoor opportunity Pickleball courts Place to fly small electric model planes Programs for elderly adults running and biking trails Shooting Skatepark Story time and swim lessons tennis and pickleball Tennis lessons Trails Walking paths Walking programs & outings for seniors. Wheelchair activities. Would be great to have more swimming pools and with better hours and accessibility Youth and Adult Performing Arts Programs Q10—“Other”: Barrier to Recreation can't drive Cost to enter parks. They should be free since I pay for them with my taxpayer dollars I have a closer and more convenient form of exercise out my front door I wish there were more swimming pools available in the area, like I said before. Limited options for homeschool programs and local programs to Royal Oak/Clawson area. Would love more early elementary programs where younger siblings could attend as well (mixed ages). Something available multiple times a month or during the mornings versus mid day. Most if not all items listed do not appeal to me ;outside of hunting and fishing. I believe there are plenty of city/township areas open for citizens to enjoy. I would rather see my hard earned dollars be used by the county for road improvement and other services that the local cities/townships do not offer or are not a necessary county endeavor . $ could be better spent on main roads , sewer repair , etc., that local municipalities are not equipped to do. Short answer‐ TOO MUCH $s wasted on non essentials. Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)102 Not available, not made known Not enough signs or displays. NOTHING CLOSE TO ME Notice of event is not timely. Parking is a ways from actives and not good for disabled people Wish there was extremely close parking and or drop off areas for those of us that can not make the long walks Programs/facilities not offered nearby Sometimes it seems the staffs member I'm talking to doesn't know the program I'm interested in. O sometimes want to register for an event at another facility and the staff has no idea what I'm talking about. The Highland Dog Training area should not be open to trapping which may injure or kill a dog. What are you thinking by allowing trapping in a dog training area? The hours and or days that something is offered make it inaccessible for us. There is only one county park on the west side of the county and it lacks many activities because it has sub standard activities we use the metro and state parks in our area. We pay for county parks but we don’t receive the benefits from them on the west side of the county. TYPICAL PLAY IN OUR YARD‐GO TO PROPERTY UP NORTH Q22—" Do you have any other comments or suggestions for improving Oakland County Parks and Recreation parks, facilities, and programs?” A large benefit of Oakland county compared to other counties/ states is the emphasis on local areas that are accessible by foot for dog walking/ play, outdoor space for kids to play, and the number of local parks/ school zones to do so. Personally, the continued purchase of recreational land and preserves is extremely important as population continues to increase and housing increases. As an avid hunter, I use wildlife rec areas (Holly), not county parks due to limited information and concern with hikers, dog walkers, etc.. I believe the county can improve their community relations by sharing the opportunities and raise awareness on benefits of each park. I believe with the continued drive for progress, the county needs to be careful on accessibility and features vs keeping the outdoor areas wild. Ex: don't pave trails, don't make 4 parking lots with gazebos and water slides. If the park is intended to be a nature preserve or wildlife area, keep it that way. Add more trees to Beaver Trail Park. Add swimming pools and ice rinks ADDISON OAKS CAMPGROUND AND PARK IS VERY NICE AND WELL MANAGED. PLEASE GET PICKLEBALL COURTS PAINTED AT BOULZN PARK AND DEDICATED. THIS IS A GREAT SPORT ADDISON OAKS NEEDS TO RENT OUT THE BUILDING NEAR THE ESTATE. COULD BE BRIDE AND GRROM SUITE Adequate handicapped parking adjacent to facilities. Advertise more. Advertising Advertising Advertising what services are available. All parks should be accessible for adults and children with disabilities. Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)103 All parks should have a paved pathway to the water for wheelchairs and a few paved pads for the wheelchair to sit on at the beach. More accessible bathrooms with adult changing tables are also needed. An idea........Independence Oaks has an abundance of fallen trees in the nature trails......Perhaps a weekend for the public at minimal cost per load of wood ($5.00, $10.00 for example) could be taken per vehicle (ATV or ATV with trailer) to remove the wood would be a good idea in the fall to help clean the trails? This would clean up the trails and provide an additional income for the Parks and Rec Department. As a pastor l am interested for the children in my church and surrounding community. as a resident of Troy, I feel there is an active increase in the development of recreation facilities. We are an active family and enjoy using the facilities available and feel there is always room for improvement and a need for these facilities. As our children get older, their interests are expanding and a variety of activities, opportunities and facilities are extremely important to us. As an RV owner, I should be able to dump my Gray & Black water at any Oakland Co campground no matter if I stayed there (only for Oakland residents) Bathrooms! These are not mentioned anywhere in your survey Bathrooms, sinks to wash hands, garbage cans. Picnic tables or benches. Our neighbor is high dog population. Maybe a baggie stand for dog crap. Being single and female, it would be great to have programs that I would feel safe doing. I LOVE camping, kayaking, hiking and fishing but don't do as often as I'd like because of safety concerns or just not wanting to do it alone. Better advertising Better bathroom facilities and security. There are young kids that go making trouble and scare people away and leave garbage. Better maintenance of soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks. Better promotion of parks/facilities, amenities and events/programs. Better restrooms. Cleaner conditions. Better lighting for evenings, Better access for Seniors." Bring back the fire works at Addison Oaks. A great gathering for the community!!! Build a bathroom at Lyon Oaks for the soccer fields. Build good relationships and cooperative partnerships with other local community organizations and county services to increase the awareness, marketing and resources for the parks organization. bushes & foliage are overgrown making the enjoyment of the parks difficult Buy more green space. Do more in South Oakland County. Provide more paved bike paths. Buy the ymca in Auburn Hills and make use of that beautiful facility Catalpa Oaks has recently benefited from some renovation work and updates to its infrastructure, soccer fields, buildings, etc. However, the work is neither properly maintained nor monitored. You can do better. CLEANING UP ILLEGAL DUMPING NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED‐‐CLEAN RESTROOMS A MUST Clear walking paths of overgrown shrubs. Continue to work diligently to improve Oakland County Parks and Recreation facilities and programs for all Oakland County residents. Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)104 Control invasive species. CISMA funding is good. Their outreach is excellent. Strengthen CISMA and outreach to land owners. Creating of more all natural, wildlife spaces. Cut the choking vines at the boat launches, they are killing the trees. Dan Stencil drove it to the ground. Waterford Oaks. Where are the slides? The toboggan run could have been utilized differently, not just tore up. BMX hardly open. May as well shut WOWP down. Nothing there. It’s amazing it’s as busy as it is. Decrease risk of tics Develop more mountain biking trails Disabled people are frequently not included in planning public access issues. This is not just an issue of complying with laws. The look on the face of my daughter when she realizes she is excluded due to physical obstacles is all telling. As is her face when she can participate. Diversity in hiring staff. DEI statement outward facing on y'all's website. Do NOT automatically close all the beaches etc. just because it is the day after Labor Day regardless of the weather! PLEASE consider waiting until the outdoor daytime temps are CONSISTENTLY starting to stay cooler. Sometimes it is in the 80s and higher after Labor Day and it is frustrating when all the beaches etc. closed just because of a day on the calendar regardless of weather. DISCOVERED LYON OAKS AFTER DRIVING PAST SIGNS ON I96 AND PONTIAC TRAIL, OTHERWISE UNAWARE OF OTHER COUNTY PARKS, DESPITE LIVING IN OAKLND COUNTY MANY YEARS. OFTEN HIKING IN STATE PARKS, METROPARKS, AND CITY PARKS. ALTHOUGH I LIVE 2.5 MILES FROM GLEN OAKS, IT JUST SEEMED TO BE ANOTHER GOLF COURSE AND I NEVER ASSOCIATED IT WITH A SYSTEM OF COUNTY PARKS UNTIL SEEING IT ON A MAP GIVEN TO ME AT LYON OAKS, TODAY, WHEN I WENT THERE! ALTHOUGH THERE ARENT ANY HIKING TRAILS AT GLEN OAKS, THAT SINGLE MAP SHOWED NEW PLACES TO GO, WHICH I HOPE WILL BE AS GOOD AS LYON OAKS. I WAS REMINDED THAT WE HAD USED WATERFORD OAKS AND RED OAKS FACILITIES, WHEN MY CHILDREN WERE YOUNG BUT THEN UNTIL NOW, I HADNT THOUGHT OF THESE AS OAKLAND COUNTY PARK FACILITIES AS A SYSTEM DO NOT CLOSE DOWN RED OAKS GOLF COURSE. do not want to see Red oaks golf course taken away we need a nice place for beginners and older people to golf Do you use roundup or glycophosphates near or around the play areas? What are you doing to reduce the use of carcinogens in high‐use and child‐use area? Don’t close Red Oaks! Don't provide more than you can maintain. Keep bathrooms, especially, well maintained. Oakland County Parks and Recreation staff should be encouraged to use the parks and facilities with their families often so that they can assess and report on the helpfulness, condition, and/or possible improvements as they appear in everyday use. Don't purchase any more land,, taxes are way too high now ! Easier access to bathroom facilities, and availability. Everything on question 13 should be a priority! That would be amazingly helpful! Expansion of park system will only benefit our community. Protect more undeveloped land. Federal funding if possible Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)105 Get beach mats. Get vendors with food. Get rid of the ticks that cause disease. Very concerning bc of Lyme disease GETTING THE WORD OUT THERE REGARDING OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES AT THE PARKS. I ONLY EVER KNEW WHEN I READ THE BULLETIN BOARD AT THE PARKS God help our Mother Earth ???? Golf rates are too high for common man!!!!! Great parks but I get an annual for the state parks for $10‐15. I have a hard time paying for a daily or annual to oak county parks. If the annual was $10‐15 I'd be more inclined to get one. In fact if it was $10/yr. I'd definitely would get one. I've used the scouting programs when my son was a cub scout but he's now a boy scout. Our den/pack has also used the large group camping sites for cub scouts and the price was fantastic. I live about a 1/4 mile from orion oaks and have always wanted to go hunting there but after living here 17 here's and owning a crossbow for 6 or so years I still haven't. Time is more of a factor on that but cost comes into play a it also Green space and conservation is so important to create and educate Groveland Oaks need more trees. Guessing parks are great, but not aware of all available Have signage to direct people to our great parks!! Groveland needs to change the number of walk‐in full hook‐up sites. It is IMPOSSIBLE to even get a full hookup site unless you have reserved it 11 months in advance. If you show up on the day the park opens you better be one of the first in line or you are out of luck for the entire summer. There are only 14 walk‐in full hookup sites and this is the biggest complaint we hear from everyone we talk to. It appears more money could be made on walk‐in sites as people tend to stay the entire season. TRUST ME THIS IS A HUGE ISSUE WITH THE CAMPERS AT GROVELAND! Have trips from local communities to Oakland County Park I am a Birmingham resident who uses the parks regularly. Oakland County should support municipalities who provide their own parks. All the County parks are too far away for me to use on a regular basis I am very unhappy with the signs independence oaks puts up in the winter prohibiting walkers from using the trail around the lake Walkers have to now share the trail w bikers during the summer so the trail should be shared by walkers and cross country skiers in the winter. We pay for an annual pass every year and walk the trails at independence oaks several times a week. We should not be restricted from our favorite trail in the winter because cross country skiers use it too I currently only utilize County parks for the dog park facilities. There are many more parks and "nature" spaces closer to my house and free. There isn't really anything to draw me to the county parks over my other options, that I know of. I DO GET CONFUSED WITH OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS, METRO PARKS ETC. IT WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE CONFORMITY WITH PRICING AND TABS, ETC. WE ARE FORTUNATE TO BE ABLE TO ENJOY OUR PARKS. I DO WISH THAT HOLLY OAKS DID NOT HAVE A RULE ON FLAGS ON ORV AND ATV. I JUST DONT WANT TO SPEND 100$ QUAD IN ORDER TO RIDE. I DID GO TO THE MOUNDS IN GENESEE COUNTY‐NOT A PLACE I WOULD RECOMMEND OR RETURN TO. SO I WOULD LIKE TO SEE THAT POLE AND FLAG RULE REMOVED IN ORDER TO RIDE AT HOLLY OAKS. OTHERWISE‐IT LOOKS LIKE A GREAT PLACE TO GO Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)106 I do know the Importance of “Walking Trail’s at my age its the Best exercise I do and I so appreciate a well tended walk way…Please see If you can add more to Oakland County and Mark them with signage of 1/4 mile & etc.…Madison heights has Wonderful Walking Areas other Cities should follow suit. I don't even what's available. You need to provide information on the parks and the activities there. I DONT FEEEL THERE SHOULD BE ANY ENTRANCE FEES FOR OAKLAND COUNTY RESIDENTS THAT ARE ALREADY PAYING PROPERTY TAXES I enjoy Oakland County Parks and Recreational Facilities and Programs. I GOT MARRIED AT ADDISON OAKS PARK AND IT WAS VERY NICE I hate that the trails at Independence Oaks has been opened to bike riders. Makes it dangerous for people walking. I have not explored OCP. Our city has a lot to offer and we visit metro/state parks regularly. I hope you keep red oaks as a golf course. the county need a well operate and maintained 9 hole course some programs lose money and other makes money. the county can afford to keep it as is. cut back a bit in staffing and watering and you’ll do well. I like the idea of keeping some significant percentage of the parks or parks undeveloped other than hiking trails. I enjoy a lot of what the local parks within biking or walking distance have around me such as the pavilion shore park and lakeshore park with biking, hiking, waterfront access and more. However I think that for the lakeshore park it could be improved and attract more people to it if more outdoor activities were developed within the large space that the park covers using the existing walking/multipurpose trails. I feel that within the lakeshore park disc golf could be easily and safely included along side the existing hiking trails and would provide another fun and relaxing thing to do in oakland county as a lot of the courses near me are greater than 15 minutes away. This course wouldn't have to be too fancy no holes longer than 300 feet and all par 3s. It could even be a shot course like 3, 6, or 9 holes with long and short tees or multiple tee pads from different angles to save money for the county but still provide a varied and fun experience for the course. I have great respect for Oakland Co leadership. After 36 years in Michigan, I still appreciate being an outsider (from rural Connecticut and New Hampshire) ‐‐ enjoying less reliance on monetary solutions, more on Mother Nature's ""wealth"" and imagination shared freely! My family has enjoyed great privilege and respect without expected financial resources (yet enjoying compulsive saving habits). Grown sons in federal leadership positions live those same values. I share this to underscore the BENEFITS of an old adage: ""LESS is MORE"". Live it! MORE Nature, outside learning, outside schooling, outside recreation. LESS indoor ""churning"" of devices... eating ""fake food"" and seeing ""them vs us"" everywhere. We ALL need to breath clean outdoor air while inhaling Mother Nature's healing powers. Our schools and our prisons need to seize this obvious gift! Yep, and Oakland County can become a showcase example. DO IT! I hope some of the staffing issues get better so you can get some of the programs back at groveland that were offered pre‐Covid. I would love a play structure at highland oaks or rose oaks and would visit those parks frequently if one of them had one Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)107 I KNOW A CHALLENGE, BUT WORK AT KEEPING STAFFED AS SOME PLACES CLOSE CERTAIN FACILITIES DUE TO LACK OF STAFF I LIVE IN BEVERLY HILLS AND HAVE A GREAT PARK‐I LACK GOOD, SAFE BIKE TRAILS OR LANES TO GET OUT OF BH TO RIDE OTHER PLACES‐WE DONT HAVE ANY SAFE WAY TO CONNECT TO OTHER SAFE BIKE TRAILS‐‐THANK YOU I live in south Oakland County and while our local parks are good, it feels that most county parks are much further north so it’d be great if there were more options for green space/nature in this area (although I realize it’s hard in more densely populated areas) I live near the Kensington Metro Park. There is no Oakland County Park near me. I LOVE SOUTHFIELD MICHIGAN AREA I Love the Addison Oaks Mountain Bike trail, but there are so many free hiking/biking options that paying 5.00 on top of the gas to get from where I live doesn't make a lot of sense. If an annual pass for an Oakland County resident was more affordable, I'd visit far more often I love the parks. It's great to have something bigger and better then what our local city can offer, but the Parks look old and outdated. I think you should invest more in what we have. I mentioned more community events. And an indoor event facility like Ferndale's Rust Belt for local small business owners! I never think of the parks because I never get any information about what's happening at the County parks I think promoting native plantings and removing invasive species is especially important. I use to walk at the park on 12 mile off Lashser. We went everyday. I love the park and esc programs. Skateboard park would be good. I USE TRAILS‐IT SHOULD BE SAFE, WATCH FOR PEOPLE BY BICYCLE‐THEY ARE TOO FAST‐THERE SHOULD BE ENOUGH SIGNS FOR THEM TO YIELD TO PEDESTRIANS NOT THE OTHER WAY AROUND. DOG OWNERS SHOULD CLEAN AFTER THEIR DOGS. TRAIL IS NOT CLEAN THERE IS DEAD RAT ALL OVER AND DOG WASTE AND NO BATHROOM I very rarely hear about Oakland County programs. We would utilize as would many in my homeschool community it we knew about them. We as a whole community are always looking for activities to get involved in. I was not aware of most Oakland County Parks near me but found 1 within a 20 minute drive and another within a 25 minute drive. I'm most likely to use Metro Parks or Township Parks (Scarlet's Playground ‐ which is either a township park or perhaps privately owned and Indian Springs Metro Park) because they are nearby and well maintained. I have looked at Youth Programs near me for my toddler (dance, swim, gymnastics, etc.) but the timing makes them unavailable for two working parents so I pay for private programs that have evening and weekend offerings. The Farmers Market is nice, but I haven't visited in a few years as it is also a 30 minute drive. I would be more likely to make a 20 minute for an event (art fair, car show, food truck rally) or for a very nice splash pad and kids playground area. I wish we had a community pool and fitness center. I would appreciate a focus on preserving as much natural habitat and wildlife as possible I would like food service reinstated at White Lake Oaks. I would like to have access to, or have information about, indoor walking tracks for winter I would like to receive more mail information on park and activities. With young kids I am always looking for outdoor activities. I didn't know of all these parks until I got this survey. Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)108 I would like to see more events like orienteering, nature scavenger hunts and some classes on how to use an old fashion compass. I would like to see more notifications about the services offer thru Oakland County Parks and Rec. I am not aware of the parks listed or the choices of activities. I would like to see more programs at the Oakland County Market. I loved the cooking classes held a few years ago. I would like to see Orion Oaks Dog Park monitored better so the rules are followed and possibly put up cameras around so as to be able to speak to those whose dogs are behaving badly and hold those people responsible and also to be able to identify the vehicles they are trying to escape in I would like to see the parks and recreation be more inclusive. Include courses that resonate with minorities. Bus trips for younger adults not just seniors. I would like to see walking/bike paths along 32 mile road and also Rochester Road North and South of 32 mile road. We have a large trailer park with many kids living in them. It would be nice if they could access Addison Oaks without walking/riding on the two major roads. Ideally a access to the park from Rochester road would be nice (Walking/Bike Path no cars) I would like to use all the facilities if I was in better health I'm disappointed that the facilities (Oakland P&R) are not maintained. I live in Southfield and both the City Swimming pool and beach golf course have been allowed to deteriorate I’m concerned that the Red Oaks golf course is under consideration for being closed as I am there 1‐2 times a week in the summer. Living in South Oakland County I am concerned that north Oakland County will get more opportunities as wealthier residents have gravitated there. I would like to see a trail corridor in south Oakland that would connect to trails system farther north‐Royal Oak to Troy to Rochester Hills, etc. IM NOT QUALIFIED TO ANSWER BUT JUST FROM VIEWING, SOME WORK NEEDS TO BE DONE TO UPDATE OUR FACILITIES TO ATTRACT YOUNGER FAMILIES TO OUR COMMUNITY Improve and provide more trails at Lyon Oaks and increase the number of parks on the west side of the county. The county has many parks but they are not located on the western side. In all the parks the bathrooms are horrible. You guys need to have the outhouse people come out more often. Most of us just pee in the woods and that's probably not what you would want to hear. But there's that bad. In group camping sites there should be a bigger diameter fire pit . At Groveland when new fire pits were put in years ago they used same sized ones as regular single camper site and they removed one of the benches. in group sites we have up to 15 sites/ Family's camping so a bigger fire pit will allow more to sit around and enjoy. Please put the 3 rd bench back so we have more seating. In south oakland county, we are lacking & underserved by the Oakland County Parks. Catalpa Oaks should be made great soccer fields. It is good‐ it should be great. Another park with river rouge attributes should be developed. Red Oaks waterpark is very outdated & should be improved. In sum‐ south Oakland County is underserved. Driving north a few times a year is nice‐ but more parks where I live would be better. In southeast Oakland County, we have very few Oakland County parks‐‐Catalpa Oaks being the closest. It is nice for what it has, but it is mainly soccer and baseball fields and a nice playground. After visiting parks in Central and Northern Oakland County, in addition to parks in Washtenaw Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)109 County, I would love it if Oakland County invested in land near urban centers to add more green space that could be integrated via trails and paths with neighborhoods. Places to look could include the fairly defunct business districts along 11 mile road in Southfield and Berkeley, Greenfield Road in Berkeley/ Oak Park. In summary, like I already mentioned, I would love more swimming pools and to have them more accessible to everyone. :) Indoor facilities for swimming and water aerobic. Small dog friendly dog parks. 9‐hole golf courses. Green space. Too much building eating up green space Indoor facilities rental fees are too high. It would be a lot easier to get to our parks if there were more sidewalks and lighting. our evenings (when we have time for recreation) are very dark for much of the year. I have to drive in the dark in bad weather to reach my local parks in the winter. It would be great to know what you offer and where It would be more helpful if there were other avenues in which information is delivered (i.e. brochures, booklets etc. sent to mailboxes) It would be nice if you actually enforced the dog leash laws. My wife is afraid of dogs and have actually left parks shortly after arriving due to loose dogs. It would be nice to have farm animal exposure available for kids. ponies, lambs, calves, chickens, etc. petting zoo, pony rides, pony carts on some trails. not enough exposure close to home these days... It would be nice to have trails closer to my home It’s imperative that QUALITY outdoor recreation programs are geared for susceptible populations such as tweens and teens. They need more social and interactive activities. Just because this age group is hard to program for doesn’t mean it can’t be done. Where has all the millage money gone? It’s interested that cricket is mentioned in this survey. I don’t like it…I LOVE IT ITS NICE TO HAVE THE PARKS. HOWEVER I AM NOT COMFORTABLE USING THE TRAILS ALONE‐ SEEMS UNSAFE Jen is great ?? Just keep up the good work. Kayak rentals at independence oaks Keep lakes and beaches clean Keep making things accessible so my hubby can play with our kids Keep parks natural and focus on trails and natural habitat. Put the recreational facilities that have high‐density group activities and kids activities close to town and keep it out of the parks. The blending of these loud and busy activities negatively impacts the quiet and natural setting that a park is supposed to be. You can put a playground, baseball and tennis, etc. anywhere, it doesn't have to go into the more remote parks because it's just generates more noise and traffic and longer drive times Keep Red Oaks Golf course as a Golf Course. Keep Red Oaks Golf course open!! Keep red oaks golf course, assist communities with park design Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)110 keep red oaks as a golf course. Our tax dollars should be able to support any loss. It doesn’t need to be developed into a passive park when you have civic center park nearby. Golf is an inter‐generational activity and gets people outside. Red oaks is‐great beginners course. You should offer golf lessons there. They always sold out when you did offer them. Let leagues play there it’s a well maintained course. Your best one actually. Keep the green space. No more apartments or pop up stores, more walking trails KEEP THE PARK FREE OR AT LOW COST‐MORE ETHNIC PROGRAMS AND FESTIVALS Keep the Red Oaks Golf Course!!!!! Keep up the good work Keep up the good work on the golf courses. I believe they are very good value. Keep up the Good Work, remember it's all out doors, and Natural Keep waterford oaks water park open Know of better hiking trails Leave Red Oaks 9 hole golf course and promote both golf and footgolf. Less concrete...more nature. Less golfing. Less swings. More ‘stuff’ that serves more people. Limited facilities/opportunities in southeast Oakland County Limit the areas and trails where dogs are allowed so I can walk/run without having to watch where I am stepping. I also find many people that think it ok to let their dogs off leash on the more remote trails" Linking parks via hiking and biking trails would be great. Always in favor of expanding or acquiring more park land. Living in Royal Oak, most of the parks are too far away for me to use on a regular basis. I rely on the city parks so that I don't have to add an hour and a half of transit time just to go on a walk. I know it's because the parks were developed after most of our neighborhoods, but the park service seems to benefit the outer suburbs while the masses in the city pay the taxes. Show us your benefit without making us travel. Thanks! Amy Mauger in Royal Oak LOCAL COMMUNITY SWIMMING POOLS WOULD BE WONDERFUL Look to the west side of the state for a model of what parks should look like for modern facilities. The amount of parks in east Michigan is surprisingly few and far between. There are very few splash pads, very few with bathroom facilities that are clean, and very few with updated playground equipment. Love for Disc Golf to be put in at Lyon Oaks! Completely hate that the park has hunting and does culls occasionally. LOVE THE ANNUAL PASSES FOR OAKLAND COUNTY AND METROPARKS COMBINED. GREAT VALUE‐THANKS! MAYBE SELL THEM OTHER PLACES TO GET THE WORD OUT TO PEOPLE WHO DONT ALREADY USE PARKS‐ESPECIALLY NEW PARENTS? THANKS LOVE the Oakland County Parks, Best feature of the county. Love the programs and parks and facilities Lower the cost to get in or offer a sale time or some incentive like volunteer then get a free park pass. Lower the price for senior citizens to be able to get in Mailers like this are a great way to spread info about Parks and Reece Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)111 Maintain them and provide updates Make access free or included with state parks license tabs Make better use of resources through communication. No need to buy more. Make it easier to obtain permits Make more affordable for low income. Make sure bathrooms are open. We need more indoor water parks. Make them available to everyone and affordable no matter the age gender health or disability or income be fair everyone Deserves to Enjoy the Great Outdoors No Matter What. Make them more Handicapped assessable Many events seem to be held in north Oakland County. 'Wish there were more in the southern part. Also... I love to walk but don't feel safe on wooded trails by myself. It would be great to have some kind of a "rent a park ranger for an hour" buddy system available. It would be a fun way to get to know the parks and trails. Maybe a booklet with all the seasonal activities you offer and cost. More accessible hours for farmers markets. I would like some to be open on Sundays. More animals and petting zoos please More areas with dog waste bags for the citizens to use. More availability of bathrooms in the “off” seasons More benches along trails would be nice, especially longer trails More camping options, especially in winter, plus more winter programming, and more hiking/trails events More camping...especially equine camping availability. You offer one weekend at Addison Oaks per year...and very late in the year. Could we have some availability for camping with horses at Rose Oaks or Highland Oaks? More dog parks. More driving ranges and golf courses More equestrian things! So many horse trails are being taken over by mountain bikes and it's not fair we can't go ride down sidewalks and sides of roads like they can. MORE GREEN SPACE, HIKING, CAMPING; NO MORE BUILDINGS OR GOLF MORE HIKING TRAILS FOR OFF LEASH DOGS; MORE MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS FOR ADVANCED RIDERS more info on programs. What is available. Would like to know where these are outdoor pickleball courts are? more low‐cost or free programming for young kids or young families, especially in underserved communities More maps for location of and distance to the rest rooms. More open space. As much as possible More picnic areas More Security, for community safety More staff at Orion Oaks Dog Park More winter hours/activities/amenities, More visible information (website) on location of toddler‐friendly vs child/adolescent playgrounds. Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)112 Most of the Oakland County Parks are rather far away. In fact the Metro Parks are far away. The area where we live is really disappointing in that they refuse to allow sidewalks and have no parks and insist that they like their natural beauty and trees exactly the way it is (City of Bloomfield and Bloomfield Township). It is VERY frustrating for those of us that are younger with school age families and have to drive 20+ minutes to get to a park or running path. The City of Bloomfield's reason for no sidewalks is complete idiocy (they are a bunch of rich snobbish old people that just want to shut out the world ‐ and not allow gasp undesirables from other communities on sidewalks in the area). In the mean time those of us with kids on bikes have to fear them riding on roads with cars going 60 mph (Kensington and Opdyke and Long Lake anyone???) to get anywhere. I know this is not a County Park problem but if we had parks nearby like Birmingham has this would be a lot easier for families to have kids go places for recreation. Instead we live in a recreation desert ‐ if you live anywhere in the I‐75/Square Lake area there are NO PARKS within 15‐20 minute driving distance. Mountain bike trails at independence oaks My only comment as it affects my needs personally, is to continue providing the facilities at Red Oaks Golf Course. No other Oakland County golf course is nearby in SE Oakland County. We lost Normandy Oaks golf course and since then, have relied on Red Oaks at least once a week for our small golf league. My grandson was visiting today from Texas and we passed two parks I have not been to due to a detour. I don’t have a park sticker and I didn’t stop because I would have to pay. It would have been nice to take a look at it. It was Waterford Oaks and another one on the same route. So today I went to Belle Isle and both museums were closed on a Wed. Afternoon. So he is mostly happy to play a internet game in the bedroom. Too bad. Need better access to amenities from SE oakland county. We don't have nearby camping or beaches / water access. Could start with bussing from this area while looking for other options to bring more amenities to this area directly. Keep Red Oaks waterpark. Remove Red Oaks golf course. Need more parks like stoney creek but in northern Oakland county need more sidewalks and trails. all homes & neighborhoods should connect. Need enforcement and penalties is sidewalks and paths are not maintained yr. round Need to be more informative get the word out New parks and walking trails should be in closer proximity to older, established neighborhoods so they are more easily accessible to seniors and young families. Golf course fees should be reduced for seniors! They are some of the highest in the area for public courses. Nicer parks in Hazel Park especially south of 9 mile Oakland County Parks are extremely awesome. Oakland County Parks recently increased the cost of golfing at its courses. I believe the dramatic increase is unjustified because 1) the Parks courses are already subsidized by taxes we pay (which I believe were also recently increased); 2) Oakland County Parks further raises revenue through park admission fees/stickers and; 3) they are out of line with similar courses (e.g. Metroparks courses). Accordingly, I have not played a Oakland County Parks course since the price increase. OCPR have continually improved over the years. Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)113 open more parks for kids ages 1‐10yrs. I have 3 children and no where to take them because everyone charges too much money. Have a kid‐friendly free waterpark or something free for kids to do when parents can not afford Oakland County Parks. Open the waterslides at waterford oaks Open up Independence Oaks trails for mountain biking! Currently there are only the paved trail and one loop around the lake. The other trails would be great for mountain biking and bring a lot of people to the park. Open up the water stations!!!! I if you don’t want to have drinking fountains that’s fine. But I need to have access to drinking water to refill my water bottle! Especially true when I hike 10 miles. Super frustrating. And Covid is not an excuse. The National Parks only have filling stations and do not sell bottled water. Orion oaks basketball hoops could use an upgrade. I love the trails Parks was a life saver during the pandemic. we hikes & biked. Independence is our favorite in terms of amenities. it would be wonderful to have more nature programs offered Personally I’m fine even though I’ve not frequented the parks in a long time …my only concern is Oakland county budget wisely and maintain our resources Photography classes Photography outings, craft, cooking or activity workshops would all be appreciated and better notice of the events as well. Pickle ball is used by all ages and growing faster than any other. Pickleball in northwest Oakland county. Plant more trees and let the underbrush grow. It’s beautiful to see wildflowers and the wild foliage grow! Please add more disc golf courses. At least 9 hole courses but the more holes the better. People come from all over to play disc golf and would be willing to pay the daily park entrance fee, especially if it's at least 18 holes :). Also, having volunteer beautification days where people could help clean up various parks would probably go well. Please do not close red oaks golf course. I have a dog and walk in my neighborhood and don’t need another walking park. I need a golf course and this one is very well maintained and is usually busy. Please keep this course Please expand programs and advertises it as we have nice parks in oakland county Please fix the big water slide at Waterford Oaks! Please give our city (Madison Heights ) more county resources. It seems as though we are left out of the nicer advancements and our residents both young & old need more activities. Please improve the dog training areas. Also, please post signs telling people dogs are off leash and to enter SLOWLY. We witnessed YOUR outhouse check people fly into the parking lot in a dog training area. Way, way too fast! outrageous!!!!!! Please keep golf courses open i.e.. Red Oaks please keep our parks clean and our roads foxed (too many pot holes.) Please keep Red Oaks a golf course! Please keep Red Oaks a golf course. Please keep the Red Run parks open (water and golf) they are a welcome asset and amenity for the S/E corner of Oakland county Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)114 Please keep up the horse facilities and beaches we literally live for both PLEASE PAVE THE WALKING TRAIL AT CASAYA OAKS PARKS‐THE CRUSHED STONE CREATES A LOT OF DUST AND GETS IN MY MOUTH AND NOSE AND ALL OVER MY CLOTHES AND SHOES Please update the baskets at addison oaks disc golf park. Also create more disc golf courses within oakland county parks. Pontiac Lake dog park needs pea gravel by the water pump. I will do it. Just give me a written pass. 248‐310‐1698. Preserve Red Oaks Golf Course! Programming at Wint Nature in particular has been outstanding! I wish more frequent programming could be offered. Communication to promote programs‐ especially at Wint Nature Center needs to be more frequent as I often feel I only hear about right before events occur. Also, we would love to see more trails developed or opened up for mountain biking at independence oaks." Provide an ATV park for 4 Wheeler's. Recently moved back from Toledo, and the parks here compared to there are wholly disappointing. Everything costs, everything is so far away, all in all inaccessible. Red Oaks‐ would like better connection of trails from Nature Center to one that goes along the dog park and water park. Red Oaks golf course is the ONLY Oakland County golf course in southern Oakland County. Do NOT, repeat Do Not remove it. Normand Oaks park is close by for those who wish to walk it's paths. Red Oaks Nature Center has good walking paths as well. Closing Red Oaks would impact hundreds of people in a very negative way. Recycling is important but we should also look at REDUCING waste. We should initiate programs that limit the amount of waste retail products can have. This waste eventually just finds it's way to our waters and lands, specially single‐user plastics (which are not recyclable). Styrofoam, for example, is one of the worst products in the world, and we don't recycle it in Michigan. No wonder we find it everywhere on every trail. Also, electronic recycling is important. Dumping new TVs every Christmas to landfill is a huge environmental hazard." Red Oaks is the only 9 home public golf course close to us. My family & friends go at least once, sometimes twice, a week to this course during the seasons which it is open. It is reasonably priced, very close to home and they can go after work and get 9 holes in. This park is VERY important to our family and basically the only Oakland County park we use. Reduce Golf rates for seniors. You raised it way too high last year. You are not competitive with the current market. Private and Metro Park Golf for seniors is less than $30. Your Golf Rate for seniors at Springfield Oaks is $40. REINSTATE BOAT RENTALS AND SKI RENTALS; ANOTHER REST ROOM; RENT PONTOON BOAT re‐open Holly rec center septic dump station Restore and protect the natural habitats even if that means limiting the number of people Run it like a business not a government program . Get rid of Bureaucrats. SENIOR ACTIVITIES Since I am the least likely to damage or use such facilities, and have paid taxes longest...I should get in for free for encouragement! Skateparks are a good thing. Always wish Clarkston had one growing up. Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)115 So appreciative of what we have‐ thank you! So far we love them and would just like to make them a little more dog and kid friendly and have some adult / parent only festivals with alcohol. Sometimes facilities may not seem financially smart to keep operating…but sometimes the value to a community is greater than the positive/negative cost equation. Thank you for the fine facilities we have in our county. Keep up the good work!! Stop focusing so many parks in the far North of Oakland County. Yes they have more land but they have very few people. SE Oakland County is where the real population is and there is just a Waterpark and some soccer fields. A 9 hole golf course does not count, it’s not a park, it’s a golf course. Stop spending my tax dollars on stupid crap! Stop the wasteful spending on things that are not needed or important SUPERVISED ACTIVITIES OUTSIDE MORE FREQUENTLY Sustainability is king! we need parks to show the people of our future how important it is to take care of what we have. Provide recycling option‐ don't sell plastic water bottles/other products. Provide composting site for people who bring food/other disposables. Nature comes first! Text or emails about current activities at Oakland County Parks. Thank you for conducting this survey and thinking strategically to keep our Parks and Rec programs and facilities relevant and up to date. Make sure existing programs and facilities are the best they can be before expanding but expand where there are real gaps and need especially to meet demands of environmental sustainability Thank you for maintaining our wonderful Oakland County Parks. THE CITY OF TROY SENDS A MAGAZINE PERIODICALLY THAT ALLOWS ME TO LEARN ABOUT ACITIVITIES. I THINK OAKLAND COUNTY SHOULD DO THIS OR EMAIL RESIDENTS SO THAT WE ARE IN THE KNOW ABOUT UPDATES AND ACTIVITIES The county really needs to enlist the services of a trails professional. The organization doesn’t have deep institutional knowledge of trails, trail use trends, trail planning/design/construction, etc. Please reach out to Dan DeLoof at Kent County Parks to hear about the early work (they are just getting started) they are doing to support trails developments. The dilapidated house OCPR owns on Sashabaw Rd outside Independence Oaks is deplorable and an insult to our community. It has been years with no maintenance. It wasn’t that bad when you bought it. Also your inability to have food service available at White Lake Oaks and Springfield Oaks golf courses means I golf a lot less there. I am not interested in a hot dog, I like a meal with friends after golf. Some of your rules at the golf courses, like tee times and rain checks are also below what other providers offer. I like your courses, but don’t go there as often because of these items. I used to go there a lot more. The parks service is very good, but we could always use more parks and Rec. services and spaces. The rental equipment available through the Parks Department is AMAZING as is the staff you provide. I work at an area library and we've used equipment several times this summer, with each being awesome. Helpful, pleasant, and professional staff too. GREAT job! Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)116 There are so many abandoned blighted shopping centers in Oakland County. Too bad they cannot be razed and returned to nature. We need more green infrastructure. We need less light pollution. We enjoy the parks very much. There needs to be more of an emphasis on Greenspace. Too many of our cities here, especially Rochester Hills, are becoming overly crowded and building everywhere. It’s becoming a cement city & driving the wildlife into the streets. These are parks, keep them more natural and less built‐up. They are not amusement parks or a place to drop off the kids unsupervised. Let families learn more about the natural beauty of our beautiful natural parks together. Told family, friends, & your staff, what a wonderful time we had @ the picnic & boating outing you provided for the physically challenged. . . My husband didn’t believe that it only cost $10. each??. Would like to see it expanded to include a movie, or music &/or star gazing & dampers etc. It really was one of the highlights of my summer??! (no vaca past few years) Thanks so much! Corinne Latcha Ticket the ones that are destructive and/or trash the parks. too many cars Top priority‐connect OC Parks with State Rec Areas and Huron Clinton Metroparks with bike/walking trails. Lots more potential together than as separate islands. Trail maintenance is important. Rose Oaks is doing a great job. This is what I want my taxes to go towards. I will vote for any funding for our local parks. I would like to see more job postings for positions that don't require a college degree. Please encourage more family community events (especially fairs) at parks and allocate more towards an advertising budget. Our family enjoys going to an event a weekend when the weather is nice. We will seek out events even if we have to travel. A good recent example was the Stony Creek Art Fair. They had local vendors, food trucks, the conservancy tent mentioned earlier (https://hereformioutdoors.org/), and room for the kids to run around and play. We had a great time and it was well worth the 40 minute drive. I believe we heard about it here https://www.oaklandcountymoms.com/weekend‐events‐metro‐detroit‐26719/ . I would sign up for a mailing list that advertised events like these. Innovation Hills in Rochester park has an incredible play area for kids. That draws people. I would love to see more creative and elaborate play areas like that for children in parks in western Oakland County. Trails to be maintained better in winter for walkers at red oak nature center Trails, specifically biking are what my household is interested in. We primarily mountain bike, but also road bike. I’d like to be able to easily / safely get to parks by bike. Trails, trails, trails. More stuff in south Oakland. Driving to Clarkston is a long way away — better to go to a metro park. Trash in Schroeder Park (Troy) (I don’t know that this falls under OC) during the school year is unruly. Receptacles that are present and maintained are definitely needed to protect the natural environment. Try not to duplicate other services such as bus transit for elderly or underprivileged. or funding items that could get veterans funds. keep paths unpaved for the equestrians. not every path needs to be stroller or wheelchair accessible as long as major spots are, such as those that host the most community events. try to add more Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)117 Update playgrounds, repair picnic tables, maintain beaches. Need waterpark near Clarkston, indoor/outdoor ice rink and a skate park. UPDATED, CLEANER RESTROOMS Upgrade existing golf and driving range facilities. Walking and biking trails that connect county, city and state parks is a priority. Water aerobics for seniors We are residents of a Bloomfield Hills. There are no playgrounds in our area that are not Public Schools. We frequent parks in Birmingham, Beverly Hills and Rochester. It’s upsetting to live in such a beautiful community with no local parks for kids and adults to enjoy. I’d love to see more splash pads for kids in Oakland county parks and rec. WE CARE FOR THE WILDLIFE AND WILL CONTINUE TO SUPPORT NATURE AND ANIMALS. WE ARE LUCKY TO HAVE OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS REC AND WILL CONTINUE TO SUPPORT IT WE DONT KNOW YOU'RE THERE. YOU SHOULD ADVERTISE IN LOCAL MEDIA‐FREE MAILED VENUES LIKE LOCAL SHOPPING PUBLICATIONS. WE WOULD USE THE FACILITIES IF WE KNEW WHERE THEY WERE AND WE'D SUPPORT THEM IF THEY HAD VALUE We enjoy parks programs but are typically involved in our townships parks. If Oakland County ran programs events already, then I didn't know they existed. we frequent parks in our area, but most are state, metro or city owned. I didn't know the county had its own system. we have used the parks by our location for yrs. All of the children played soccer and used the play areas when young. Now I use a lot of the trails and my grandchildren use the playgrounds. We live in Highland Township. Our community is underserved. We Love Indian Springs We love our Oakland County Parks, and our Metro Parks. I see more activities for kids at the Metroparks than at Independence Oaks. I would sign up for more activities for my kids if 1) they were advised better, and 2) the few I have seen at IO were at times that didn't work for us. I'm hoping to be able to participate in more this year. Buy we seem to find out about events at Indian Springs Metroparks more than at Independence Oaks. WE LOVE THE ADAPTIVE REC DANCES AND EVENTS‐WOULD LIKE MORE We must do all we can to learn more about climate change and focus on protecting our environment. We need a pool in northern Oakland county!! we need affordable before & after school programs, summer camps, also access to tennis and swimming. Mobile units are vital and collaborating with grassroots organizations. We need better transportation and better playground equipment. More programs that cater to toddlers. We need more facilities in Southfield. We need more pickleball courts in Waterford. I have to drive 30 minutes to use one. We need more walking and bike trails We really need water fitness programs. WE RECEIVE MORE INFOMRATION REGARDING WEST BLOOMFIELD PARKS AND PROGRAMS THAN OAKLAND COUNTY‐WE WOULD PARTAKE IN OAKLAND COUNTY PROGRAMS IF WE KNEW MORE ABOUT THE PROGRAMS‐GIRL SCOUTS, BASEBALL, GOLF, FISHING, CAMPING, SOFTBALL Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)118 We take our grandchildren to city parks. we used Oakland County Parks for our children and now our grandchildren. Exercise, nature walks, picnics, biking, sledding etc. We were very disappointed to find that Optimist Park off Elizabeth Lake Road no longer has any play structure. we will be moving to Crooks & South Blvd shortly. I was disappointed to see there is a limited # of County Parks in that area We would like better information on services and events at our parks. I feel lucky being so close to so many parks. When comparing private RV parks with Oakland County Park Camping, the price is too high for the quality of the campground. We have visited the campgrounds and reviewed the areas with Full Hookups and would rather go to a private campground than pay the Oakland County price for it's campground. WHEN COVID IS OVER, WE WILL GO TO THE PARK CLOSE TO KENSINGTON‐FURTHER ALONG 696‐ ‐‐LOVE THE PETTING FARM WHEN MY HUSBAND WAS ALIVE, WE VISITED PARKS QUITE OFTEN. I HAVENT BEEN SINCE HE PASSED AWAY Wish areas were better maintained and that staff was available to ask questions WITH COVID AND OTHER PERSONAL REASONS, WE HAVE BEEN UNABLE TO GET OUT TO THE PARKS DURING THE CURRENT YEAR. THUS, I FELT THAT THIS WAS BEING DONE TOO SOON. BUT THEN AGAIN I GUESS WITH THAT IN MIND MANY OTHER FAMILIES FEEL THE SAME WAY would like to see better designation for trails‐ I have been coming to the park for many years and hiking trails are often used now by bikers which makes it dangerous for hiker and impacts the condition of the trails. It used to clearly read no bikes on certain trails but I don't see it anymore. The recent trail improvements have been great. Would like to see more hiking/walking options. Very pleased with improvements to cart paths at White Lake Oaks. Would like to see there be a combined metro and county park pass at a reasonable rate. Would love to see kayak, snow shoe and cross‐country ski rentals again. Would love to see more camping (tent or wilderness specifically) and more mountain bike trails like Addison Oaks. Would love to see slides added back to Waterford oaks Y'all's are doing alright. Yes. I hate the way the parks have limited fishing areas. I love Doge Park In Waterford. I used to be able to access every part of the park to fish, that was a non swimming area. Now a prime fishing area is being designated a dog beach without consulting the patrons of the beach. The ranger of the park harassed a friend and myself constantly about this new area of the park. I am a paying patron who utilizes the park. Dogs should have spaces away from the beach goers and patrons due to sanitary reasons. This needs to be relocated to another area. Or put to a vote. I'm all for dogs spaces but plan them according to who frequently traffic's the space and how it is normally utilized. Yes. Increase public transit access. You shouldn't need a car to access our public parks. Develop more parks & facilities in southeast Oakland County, where the majority of the population lives. Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)119 you are doing a great job maintaining your parks & recreation parks. That is why I moved here from Wayne County! You can't be everything for everyone, unfortunately...Focus could be very different depending on location. You could create an email listserv that people can choose to sign up for to receive news about upcoming activities in the parks and put it on the Oakland County parks website. I never know when/where things are going on and I want to make sure it's not too crowded so there is room for social distancing. Safety is also very important to me as a single person. You have been raising prices, so they are higher than private facilities. You are forcing many of us to go to other facilities. You have done a wonderful job in the past keep up the good works, no more golf courses please You need to have your parks spaced out better. To many in the Royal Oak area. Your golf courses are overpriced! $40 for senior golf right after receiving additional property taxes revenues is insulting to residents. Several courses do not even have a driving range nor bar/ restaurant. My group uses many courses in Oakland County and Oakland Counties courses are the most over price considering the tax money they receive. Springfield Oaks in particular is in bad condition and not being attended to. The staff is great but they do not schedule nor implement the repairs that are needed. Your golf prices are high compared to similar courses locally. Your courses are subsidized thru the Parks mileage yet cost significantly more without equal amenities( driving ranges, grills for food and drinks). Springfield Oaks in particular is in terrible condition. Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)120 Survey Instrument7 Dear Oakland County Resident, Your response to the attached/linked survey is very important. The Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission is conducting a comprehensive park and recreation needs assessment survey. The results of this survey will be used to establish priorities for improvements to our park system, which will be included in our 5-Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan. The Oakland County Parks comprises 7,000 acres of parkland including trails and open space, golf courses, waterparks, dog parks, nature centers and campgrounds. Your household was one of a limited number selected at random to receive this survey, therefore it is very important that you participate. We greatly value your time and feedback. We have selected ETC Institute, an independent consulting company, as our partner to administer this survey. They will compile the data received and present the results to the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission later this year. Your responses will remain confidential. We expect this survey to take approximately 10-15 minutes to complete, however, each question is important. The time you invest in completing this survey will help us take a resident-driven approach to making decisions about the future of our county park system. Please return your completed survey in the enclosed postage-paid envelope addressed to ETC Institute, 725 W. Frontier Circle, Olathe, KS 66061. If you would like to take the survey over the web, the address is oaklandcountysurvey.org. If you have questions, please feel free to contact Donna Folland, Parks and Recreation Planning Supervisor, at follandd@oakgov.com or 248-736-7809. Sincerely, Chris Ward Parks and Recreation Director Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)122 ©2022 ETC Institute Page 1 Oakland County Parks 2022 Community Needs Assessment Your input is an important part of the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission's ongoing efforts to provide quality parks, recreation, and other services for Oakland County residents. This survey will take only 10- 15 minutes to complete. When you are finished, please return your survey in the enclosed postage-paid, return- reply envelope. You may also complete the survey on-line at oaklandcountysurvey.org. Parks 1. From the following list, please check ALL the Oakland County parks you or members of your household have visited over the past 12 months. ____(01) Addison Oaks ____(02) Catalpa Oaks ____(03) Glen Oaks ____(04) Groveland Oaks ____(05) Highland Oaks ____(06) Holly Oaks ____(07) Independence Oaks ____(08) Lyon Oaks ____(09) Oakland County Farmers Market ____(10) Oakland County Parks event or programs at community location ____(11) Orion Oaks ____(12) Red Oaks ____(13) Rose Oaks ____(14) Springfield ____(15) Waterford Oaks ____(16) White Lake Oaks ____(17) Other: ______________________________________________ ____(18) None; we do not use any Oakland County parks or facilities 2.Which of the parks from the list above does your household use MOST OFTEN? 1st: ____ 2nd: ____ 3rd: ____ 4th: ____ NONE 3.In the past 12 months, how often have you or other members of your family visited one or more of the Oakland County Parks and Recreation parks listed above? ____(1) I have not visited an Oakland County park in the past 12 months ____(2) Less than once a month ____(3) 1-3 times a month ____(4) Once a week ____(5) 2-4 times a week ____(6) More than 5 times a week Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)123 ©2022 ETC Institute Page 2 Facility Needs 4.Please indicate if you or other members of your household have a need for each of the facilities listed below by circling either "Yes" or "No." If "Yes," please rate how well the needs of your household are currently being met in Southeast Michigan using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means all (100%) of your needs are being met and 1 means none (0%) of your needs are being met. Facility 100% Met 75% Met 50% Met 25% Met 0% Met 01. Adult fitness equipment Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 02. Archery range Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 03. Banquet facilities Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 04. Baseball and softball diamonds Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 05. Beaches Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 06. Boating and fishing areas Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 07. Camping areas and cabins Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 08. Canoe and kayak launch sites Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 09. Disc golf Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 10. Dog parks Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 11. Equestrian centers and facilities Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 12. Farmers markets Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 13. Golf courses – 18-hole Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 14. Golf courses – 9-hole Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 15. Golf driving ranges Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 16. Hunting areas Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 17. Indoor aquatic centers Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 18. Indoor event rental space Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 19. Indoor ice rinks and arenas Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 20. Indoor recreation centers Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 21. Natural areas and open space Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 22. Nature centers Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 23. Off-road vehicle areas Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 24. Outdoor basketball courts Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 25. Outdoor pickle ball courts Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 26. Outdoor tennis courts Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 27. Picnic tables, grills, and benches Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 28. Outdoor pavilions to rent for events Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 29. Playgrounds Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 30. River access for canoeing, kayaking Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 31. Ropes courses Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 32. Sledding hills Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 33. Splash pads and spray parks Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 34. Sports fields – soccer and cricket Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 35. Trails – equestrian Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 36. Trails – hiking Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 37. Trails – mountain biking Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 38. Trails – accessible Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 39. Waterparks and waterslides Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 40. Zip lines Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 41. Other: __________________________________________ Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 5.Regardless of their currently availability in Southeast Michigan, which FOUR of the facilities listed above are MOST IMPORTANT to your household? 1st: ____ 2nd: ____ 3rd: ____ 4th: ____ NONE Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)124 ©2022 ETC Institute Page 3 6.In which FOUR of the facilities listed on the previous page do you and other members of your household currently participate MOST that are offered by Oakland County Parks and Recreation? 1st: ____ 2nd: ____ 3rd: ____ 4th: ____ NONE Program Needs 7.Please indicate if you or other members of your household have a need for each of the programs listed below by circling either "Yes" or "No." If "Yes," please rate how well the needs of your household are currently being met in Southeast Michigan using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means all (100%) of your needs are being met and 1 means none (0%) of your needs are being met. Program 100% Met 75% Met 50% Met 25% Met 0% Met 01. Adaptive programs Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 02. Adult fitness and wellness programs Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 03. Archery programs Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 04. Art and photography programs Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 05. Art/antique/craft shows Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 06. Before and after school programs Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 07. Bird/wildlife watching programs Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 08. Bus trips Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 09. Campground programs Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 10. Citizen science programs Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 11. Community festivals Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 12. Farmers market programs Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 13. Fishing programs Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 14. Food truck rallies Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 15. Golf programs and events Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 16. Homeschool programs Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 17. Kayak, canoe, paddleboard rentals Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 18. Mobile unit rentals (bouncers, zip lines, etc.) Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 19. Nature education programs Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 20. Nature stewardship programs Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 21. Pre-school programs Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 22. Scouting programs Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 23. Volunteer opportunities Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 24. Water fitness programs Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 25. Winter programs Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 26. Youth fitness programs Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 27. Youth summer camps Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 28. Youth swim lessons Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 29. Other: _________________________________________ Yes No 5 4 3 2 1 8.Regardless of their currently availability in Southeast Michigan, which FOUR of the programs listed above are MOST IMPORTANT to your household? 1st: ____ 2nd: ____ 3rd: ____ 4th: ____ NONE 9.In which FOUR of the programs listed above do you and other members of your household currently participate MOST that are offered by Oakland County Parks and Recreation? 1st: ____ 2nd: ____ 3rd: ____ 4th: ____ NONE Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)125 ©2022 ETC Institute Page 4 Barriers to Recreation 10. People have various reasons that limit their participation in outdoor recreation. To indicate which, if any, reasons apply to you, please tell us if you strongly agree, agree, neither agree or disagree, or strongly disagree with the following statements. Barrier to Recreation Strongly Agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly Disagree Don't Know 01. I don't have time 5 4 3 2 1 9 02. I don't have enough money 5 4 3 2 1 9 03. I don't have anyone to go with 5 4 3 2 1 9 04. I don't have adequate transportation 5 4 3 2 1 9 05. It's too far to travel 5 4 3 2 1 9 06. I don't have enough information 5 4 3 2 1 9 07. I just don't want to 5 4 3 2 1 9 08. I don't have the skills or abilities 5 4 3 2 1 9 09. I don't feel safe because of the other people that go there 5 4 3 2 1 9 10. I or a member of my household have personal health reasons 5 4 3 2 1 9 11. I or a member of my household have a physical disability 5 4 3 2 1 9 12. It's too crowded 5 4 3 2 1 9 13. There are too many rules 5 4 3 2 1 9 14. Recreation areas are poorly maintained 5 4 3 2 1 9 15. I don't like outdoor pests, such as mosquitos 5 4 3 2 1 9 16. I feel unwelcome or uncomfortable 5 4 3 2 1 9 17. Other: __________________________________________ 5 4 3 2 1 9 11. Do you feel that there are sufficient parks and green space areas within a 10-minute walk of your residence? ____(1) Yes ____(2) No ____(3) Not sure 12. Do you feel that there are sufficient parks and green space areas with a 15-minute drive of your residence? ____(1) Yes ____(2) No ____(3) Not sure Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)126 ©2022 ETC Institute Page 5 County Parks Vision 13. How important do you feel each of the following actions are to the future of Oakland County Parks and Recreation? Please tell us if each action is very important, important, somewhat important, or not important. Very Important Important Somewhat Important Not Important 01. Manage freshwater and stormwater resources to protect water quality and reduce flooding 4 3 2 1 02. Deliver nature, education, and recreation programs that welcome everyone 4 3 2 1 03. Reduce waste by recycling and composting 4 3 2 1 04. Maintain roads, parking lots, and other park infrastructure 4 3 2 1 05. Provide equitable access to parks and nature 4 3 2 1 06. Buy land for new recreational facilities 4 3 2 1 07. Plant native trees and forests to improve regional climate resiliency and reduce carbon 4 3 2 1 08. Reach out to underserved communities with recreation programs and mobile recreation services 4 3 2 1 09. Increase four-season recreation opportunities 4 3 2 1 10. Make facilities accessible to persons of all abilities 4 3 2 1 11. Develop new recreational facilities and amenities 4 3 2 1 12. Renovate existing facilities to be carbon neutral and environmentally sustainable 4 3 2 1 13. Make walking, biking, or transit connections with neighborhoods and other parks 4 3 2 1 14. Manage natural areas to improve habitat and connectivity for wildlife 4 3 2 1 15. Buy land for open space, trails, and the environment 4 3 2 1 16. Reach out to local communities with support for parks, trails, and natural resources management 4 3 2 1 17. Provide education about and experiences with local history 4 3 2 1 18. Identify fiscally unsustainable facilities and assets and remove from service 4 3 2 1 19. Invest in the health and wellness of our communities with active outdoor programs 4 3 2 1 20. Improve and add features to existing recreational facilities and amenities 4 3 2 1 Information 14. In the past, what are ALL the ways you have heard about Oakland County Parks and Recreation? ____(01) Ads in a publication ____(02) Direct mail ____(03) Flyers and handouts ____(04) From friends, family, coworkers ____(05) Newspaper stories in print ____(06) Newspaper stories online ____(07) Oakland County Parks web site ____(08) Radio stories ____(09) Facebook ____(10) Instagram ____(11) Twitter ____(12) YouTube ____(13) I haven't heard about Oakland County Parks and Recreation from any of these Ratings 15. Please rate your satisfaction on a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied" with the overall value your household receives from the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission. ____(5) Very Satisfied ____(4) Somewhat Satisfied ____(3) Neutral ____(2) Somewhat Dissatisfied ____(1) Very Dissatisfied ____(9) Don't Know Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)127 ©2022 ETC Institute Page 6 16. Overall how would you rate the physical condition of ALL the Oakland County Parks and Recreation parks and facilities that you have visited? ____(4) Excellent ____(3) Good ____(2) Fair ____(1) Poor ____(9) Don't know Demographics 17. What is your age? ______ years old 18. Counting yourself, how many people in your household are... Under age 5: ____ Ages 5-9: ____ Ages 10-14: ____ Ages 15-19: ____ Ages 20-24: ____ Ages 25-34: ____ Ages 35-44: ____ Ages 45-54: ____ Ages 55-64: ____ Ages 65-74: ____ Ages 75+: ____ 19. Which of the following best describes your race/ethnicity? [Check all that apply.] ____(01) Asian or Asian Indian ____(02) Black or African American ____(03) American Indian or Alaska Native ____(04) White ____(05) Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander ____(06) Hispanic, Spanish, or Latino/a/x ____(99) Other: ___________________________________________ 20. What is your household income? ____(1) Under $50,000 ____(2) $50,000 to $99,999 ____(3) $100,000 to $149,999 ____(4) $150,000 or more 21. What is your gender? ____(1) Male ____(2) Female ____(3) Other: _____________________________ Other Comments 22. Do you have any other comments or suggestions for improving Oakland County Parks and Recreation parks, facilities, and programs? If so, please write in the space below. Oakland County, MI 2022 Survey ETC Institute (2022)128 Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 1 5-Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 30-Day Public Comment Period Report November 17 – December 20, 2022; compiled December 28, 2022 Staff contact: Donna Folland, Supervisor of Planning – follandd@oakgov.com or 248.736.9087 Table of Contents Summary .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 1 Text of Online Public Comments (391) .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 2 Text of Emailed Comments (4) ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 80 Telephone Comments (3) ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 81 Staff Comments (3) ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 82 Summary Oakland County Parks opened the Recreation Plan 2023-2027 for public comment from November 17 to December 20, 2022. The response of 391 online comments far exceeded that of the previous 5-Year Recreation Plan (130 comments received in 2018). Likely due to earlier publicity regarding potential improvements in the south part of Oakland County, there was a very robust response from supporters of soccer at Catalpa Oaks and users of Red Oaks and other golf courses. The responses to the overall goals of the Recreation Plan and regarding individual parks was generally positive with specific critiques and suggestions offered. Oakland County Parks is grateful for the support and participation of the residents of Oakland County. The next step is for planning staff to analyze the comments and break them into topics and relate them to specific parks, facilities, and projects. This analysis will be a key element to consider as decisions are made regarding operations and development and may trigger more in-depth public engagement regarding specific projects. The analysis will be published as an addendum to this document. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 2 Text of Online Public Comments (391) # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 1 48393 70 Lyon, Springfield Golf courses Lower the price of golf. 2 48304 79 Waterford The walking trails 3 48170 65 Catalpa, Glen, Lyon Glen oaks as I work there in maintenance.... more $$$$ to workers who keep it maintain it. More workers 4 48009 72 Catalpa, Glen, Red Golf, bike trails 5 48342 48 Addison, Catalpa, Independence, Red, Waterford The Lakes You are doing great, more activities for County Employees outside of work hours would be awesome and we should also be able to rent area's without a fee as employees No fees to employees I would love to see the Company picnics for employees to return to the County parks! N/A more employee inclusiveness 6 48462 67 Groveland, Springfield Fair Cut the grass. Looks terrible and we just approved a mileage Stop cutting corners Na 7 48442 35 Response to Q1: Addison, Catalpa, Glen, Groveland, Holly Oaks ORV Park, Independence, Lyon, Orion, Red, Springfield, Waterford, White Lake Response to Q5: Why does the park system need to gather information about race? One of the KPI's stated in the plan is to gather this information. Why would that matter? The last thing this park system should do is stop people and ask them what race they are before they enter a park or buy a pass. Provide the opportunity to recreate for all. 8 48327 70 Addison, Independence, Waterford water park wish there was a lot more things to do because it’s down to only two things. MORE EVERYTHING YOU HAVE TAKEN ALL SLIDES ???? ❤ ❤❤a lazy river like the other park has. COME ON PEOPLE. AGAIN EVERYTHING more more Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 3 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 9 48973 63 Glen, Groveland, Lyon, Red Golf, walking trails Most of these parks are in north Oakland County Need to invest in Southeast Oakland County Pickleball Exercise stations Use the parks to gather the community together, similar to the events you do at the a farmers Market. The market is not close to many people- the parks are. While I appreciate the work that has gone into this plan and the opportunity to provide feedback - a 194 page plan will not be read and commented on by most people. Perhaps if you create and post a video of someone reviewing the plan that people can watch, they could review the plan, and respond to the survey. Thanks Your priorities were based on return for investment. Some of the in investment is for the health and wellness of the community. Not sure how you can measure that return. 10 34748 74 Addison Wildlife and camping At Addison oaks limit the number of dogs. All the wonderful wildlife is gone. Put in sewer in some of the sites. Pay attention to all of the parks. Groveland gets way too much over the other parks. 11 48304 45 Glen, Independence Golf Lower prices, improve golf playing conditions Spend less money to lower our taxes and stop acquiring new lands. Just one time I would like a government entity say they are able to save costs for the taxpayers and they don't need more funding. When will that ever happen? Just think about it, try to cut, not spend more. Seems like a lot of wasted money with what is being proposed. How about spending less not more? How about working to lowering our taxes, not raising them? Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 4 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 12 48350 41 Highland, Rose, Springfield, Waterford, White Lake Golf Response to Q3: Driving rang or driving nets at all golf course's. AND PLEASE bring the bar and grill back at Springfield oaks GC!! I have been the president of my golf league there for 10 years, we used to all go in the club house and have a drink and dinner after golf. Sadly we have not had a cook or food out there for a while now. I feel like the county is missing out on some revenue and WE golfers are certainly missing the food! we need Food and Driving nets at Springfield GC we need Food and Driving nets at Springfield GC 13 48327 60 Glen, Independence, Lyon, Orion, Springfield, Waterford, White Lake None Stop raising golf prices. Stop calling sheriff for someone wearing a tee shirt. Change management at white lake and at recreation center. Management sucks Change management Management at recreation center is terrible. Spaghetti dinners cancelled...? Not letting people finish games. 14 48329 83 Independence, Springfield, White Lake White Lake Oaks Nothing. You are doing a fabulous job. Nothing. You are doing a fabulous job. no It is fine. 15 48393 78 Glen, Lyon, Springfield, White Lake Golf courses Continue to maintain and improve each of theses golf courses paths , sand traps and fairways . Keep and hire good people who care about the park system and facilities. No No 16 48168 73 Lyon The upnorth feel of the golf course. Almost ever hole is tree lined which makes it a beautiful setting. Response to Q4: The new pro has seemed to be making the course more family friendly. I don't mind the idea but in doing so it has been made the course easier which is not as appealing to the better golfer. They've removed a lot of trees on some holes. Such as, the walkway between 4 & 5 and behind 6. It didn't change the holes. So, I don't understand the purpose. A lot of the heather was removed in front of the tees which we didn't like. I think a good designer could have made the course appealing to easy golfers and fun to play for the advanced golfers. Response to Q5: The restaurant could have been open more. Response to Q6: I think I got them above Sorry I didn't read them. My guess was that the plans are for all parks more than Lyon Oaks. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 5 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 17 48306 48 Red water park playground upgrades 18 48168 73 Lyon I have another survey filled out but forgot something. I think this is really important. I put the comment in the improvements The bathrooms should be open, or temporaries made available. Also, they are no drinking fountains on the course. The maybe a health violation. 19 48328 65 Independence, Springfield, Waterford Hiking, picnics, winter activities, waterparks Expand winter activities More available park staff 20 48438 42 Holly Oaks ORV Park The new expansion and creation of upper and lower 2 obstacles. Continue building shotcrete obstacles. Provide a season pass option. Listen to your users. Assign those to the roles and positions they have a passion for. If you keep building they will come. Create more unique obstacles for users at Holly oaks. Get the pond pumping to create the waterfall obstacles we have been asking for since the beginning. Expand Holly Oaks across I-75 to create real world woods trail terrain. 21 48331 68 Glen, Lyon Golfing Reduce golf fees for seniors 22 48362 72 Addison, Orion I enjoy the trees and freedom to hike and walk around. Offer more activities. Keep them clean. I love the craft sales at the Oakland County Market and the Saturday Farmer's Market. no 23 48326 51 Addison Campground Full hook up sites including sewer. Enforcement of rules especially loud music at all hours. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 6 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 24 48359 66 Springfield, White Lake golf course Lower the price of golf for county residents. Not sure why golf courses do not receive the same subsidies from the county that the parks do. My taxes should support all Oakland County parks and recreation and not just some. Listen to the people that go to the parks and ask the others why they don't go. Then see if you can make the parks more enjoyable for those not going while not taking away from the enjoyment from those that are going. Response to Q5: For over 20 years I have written the golf course leaders letters on how to improve the course or our leagues concerns. In that time I have received one reply, and that was this year. When I responded to the response I heard nothing. Please start communicating. If the answer is no or not now, say that but don't remain silent. You will never get my vote for a parks millage anymore until you start responding to my concerns, whether you agree or not with my requests. 25 48220 39 Red free admission for oakland county residents 26 48462 51 Addison, Groveland, Holly Oaks ORV Park, Independence, Lyon, Orion, Red, Springfield, Waterford TRAILS don't limit shut the trails off for hikers this winter. Specifically at IND - when there is snow, the trails have been cut off for hiking so that the cross country skiers can use the trails - for inclusion for all - please don't limit hikers access to all the trails - it's really not fair to limit access to ONLY skiers. stop shutting off trails to hikers in the winter. Please stop shutting off trails for hikers in the winter. I like the idea of inclusion for all - and on that note - please stop shutting down the trails for hikers in the winter :-) 27 48304 73 Springfield, White Lake Golf courses Better food service in clubhouse 28 48322 76 Glen Golf They all look very good to me. Nothing No 29 48348 68 Independence, Lyon, Red, Springfield, White Lake Really playing enjoy golf at these courses the scenery and wildlife is great the parking lot at Lyon Oaks needs some work other than that nothing Response to Q5: leave Red Oaks alone, have watched young and old alike enjoying themselves the young ones really enjoy the footgolf no other place has it Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 7 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 30 48329 63 Groveland, Independence, Springfield, Waterford Camping at Groveland Oaks, Walking the trails at Independence Oaks, The Fair at Springfield Oaks and driving to the back of Waterford Oaks for quiet time and relaxing if nothing is happening in the lodge. I believe general ongoing maintenance to all facilities is necessary to keep our parks as beautiful and natural places to visit. I also believe planning for enough park staff is essential to this process especially so our citizens can use the facilities we pay taxes for, including staffing for water park at Waterford Oaks for the entire season. I would also comment that the 2022 Groveland Oaks Campground was kept running efficiently and the grounds and bathrooms were well maintained although as previously stated, I'm glad to see the plan includes the need for replacement or upgrades to the older bathroom facilities. I would be remiss if I didn't comment on the management and staff who were courteous and caring, yet professional, throughout the camping season. Sometimes the staff is met with hostility and plain old "mean people" which I observed myself this summer, and they still "kept their cool" during these times. I am happy to see the Groveland Oaks Campground plan includes the need for replacement or upgrades to the older bathroom facilities. The one thing I would hate to see implemented that is in the plan is the expansion of the ORV park to include the old golf course / natural area of the current campground. This would promote more noise, dust and traffic in the campground which already contends with noise from Dixie Hwy and Grange Hall Roads. Keep the Holly Oaks ORV park on the other side of the road and look into possibly expanding this area as a camp ground for those who enjoy more rustic camping. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 8 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 31 48327 68 White Lake Definitely not the price, asking seniors to pay $38- $40 for 18 holes with a cart is outrageous. This is our tax dollars at work, I for one will not be supporting any increase in funding for the parks anymore. Lower the price, $40 for 18 with a cart at Glen Oaks is exorbitant!! Lower the price for seniors at the golf courses, we are limited on income but do enjoy the camaraderie with our friends on the course. I for one along with my older friends refuse to pay the high senior rates at the county golf courses. There are cheaper rates elsewhere. Not interested in supporting it, until the senior golf rates are lowered at all the county parks. 32 48302 59 Lyon Golf Have discounts for Oakland County Residence for playing golf. 33 48381 58 Lyon The park is well maintained, and kept clean. I appreciate that hunting is allowed. We certainly have an excess of deer, which is a problem with car crashes and damage to residential gardens. Parts of the parking areas tend to remain wet/muddy. Can they be filled in or perhaps draining added? Continue to offer a wide variety of activities. For example, more than half our parks offer winter activities. Great! We have a great county park system! (No, I'm not a county employee. I've just lived in areas with poor parks & I appreciate what we have here.) 1. For the Lyon Oaks dog park, are there any other parks which have implemented the key fob system being considered? 34 48442 61 Addison, Highland, Independence, Orion, Rose Rose Oaks and Water Road Nature Preserve Make the porta johns more appealing and have a water hand pump for washing hands or for getting dog water. It would be a great addition to build the viewing platform on the Water Road Nature Preserve property and to have a walking trail there. Would like to see OCPR work actively with and partner with smaller communities/townships who are trying to get parks and recreation programming off the ground. This should include doing some joint programming with these communities. Keep adding history programming as this is a wonderful addition to the programming offerings. The plan was informative, comprehensive, and well written. It is good to see the acknowledgement statement about the land on which parks exist used to be lands of the Native Americans. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 9 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 35 48075 67 Catalpa I just LOVE the walking path. I walk just as the sun is rising and it is glorious! On walks in the afternoon / early evening during summer, the sports teams and their supporters lend wonderful energy to the space. The playground area is small, but appropriately sized for a couple different age groups. The Inside Out DIA art partnership is GREAT!!! Love to bring out of towners here! I would like for the parking area along Catalpa Street to be paved / asphalted. It becomes muddy very easily otherwise. NA Do consider a dog park when working Beechwood Park in Southfield. We have many dog owners in this community, but no dog parks. 36 48073 26 Catalpa, Red Trails, waterpark Red oaks: Invest in the waterpark, remove the golf course to make a non-motorized trail available Bus service to Northern parks / events from the South side of the county (like maybe each Saturday in the summer a bus stops in a few communities for a ride to a different park) Make sure it's easy to access all parks by walking / biking / transit Did not see details about how to make all of our parks more accessible by walking / biking / transit / special county bus service. I think this should've been included 37 48371 59 Addison, Independence, Orion, Waterford trails more trash cans and bathrooms more staff Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 10 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 38 48381 70 Lyon love the lyons oak golf course...with exceptions Response to Q3: the way lyons oak golf course is run is pathetic. While the golf course is wonderful in its condition, half the time the grill room is closed. the starters are not willing to be cooperative. there are no rangers...Ive seen countless times players are driving carts on greens, smoking dope on the golf course and other things i will not mention. the prices are outrageous. I can play just down the street at lincs of novi or tanglewood for half the price. clean up your act or its the last time I play there 39 48005 43 Addison, Waterford Disc golf course at Addison Oaks Oakland County Farmers Market More disc golf courses at the Oakland County Parks Upgrades to the Farmers Market The addition of disc golf courses to more county parks 40 48462 37 Groveland, Waterford 41 48367 69 Addison, Orion The natural scenery, and the hiking trails were particularly enjoyable. The camping areas at Addison Oaks are great. Facility maintenance, including the washrooms and showers could use some attention. Continue to acquire property for open space preservation, as well as future development The plan is comprehensive and complex, but understandable and sets realistic goals for the county as a whole. 42 48320 68 Pickleball Add pickleball courts 43 48309 73 I have not visited an Oakland County Park Walking trails and playgrounds for my gandchildren See above 44 48083 58 I have not visited an Oakland County Park 45 48072 64 Make it much smaller and less costly to maintain. Too, too much 46 48071 37 Red Shaded walking paths, nature center, storybook trail Response to Q4: For childrens play areas, having shade (either natural ways or man made) over playgrounds. It gets too hot in the summers to use them in the afternoon if there is no shade. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 11 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 47 48070 69 Catalpa Walking trails and clean bathrooms Bring more resources to the south end of the County 48 48071 62 Red Red Oaks Golf Course Keep Red Oaks GC open! Keep all types of recreation available to all residents. It seems that most of the parks are located in the north part of the county. 49 48083 72 Red The bike trails. Connect the bike/walking trails. 50 48328 51 Addison, Glen, Highland, Lyon, Waterford, White Lake Access to large park systems to do a variety outdoor activities close to home. More mountain bike and disc golf courses. Add more farmers markets etc to bring people to the parks. The plan seems well laid out to best meet the needs of the surrounding communities. 51 48335 71 Catalpa, Glen, Highland, Independence Hiking and biking trails. Bird watching. Maintain trails and buildings. Provide more programming - lectures, guided walks, events. 52 48462 70 Addison, Groveland, Independence, Orion That's a tough one, but generally trails near lakeshores the have hilly sections. Response to Q3: Not much-- the park system is great. Some of the trail junction maps above west side of Crooked Lake (Independece are tough for newbees to understand. I hike there about once a week and have encountered on several occasions newer hikers trying to figure out where they are. And perhaps clear signage that if you are walking with a dog it MUST be leashed at all times. I've encountered users carrying a leash at Indy and Orion with the dog close by and when I approach they call the dog back. It does not bother me- I tend to say hi to all dogs I encounter, but Im sure for some folks its problematic. Response to Q4: This question seems almost redundant to the one before it, but keeping good PR out there and lively Facebook updates are always good. We want users to realize these are their parks! Not yet-- will look it over later 53 48328 46 Waterford Trails and water park Fix the water park sonfamikies have something to do without driving to Red Oaks... Response to Q4: Advertise more of what the parks have to offer. It’s difficult to navigate the website to find information needed. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 12 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 54 48071 58 Red The nature center is the best Keep the gold course 55 48346 41 Independence Beach Nature Center The picnic pavilions at Independence Oaks could be updated. Look very antiquated. Better playground options near the pavilions. 56 48079 57 Addison The over all park Smoother roads in the campground. Better draining of some of the sites 57 48328 58 Independence, Waterford Dirt and paved trails About the only thing I see is have more restrooms open year round! Not porta johns You guys do a great job overal! Great parks 58 48083 71 Red Walking the trail Clean the walkways in the winter 59 48371 39 Addison, Independence, Orion Mountain biking Hiking and running trails XC skiing Snowshoeing Forest areas and rugged terrain in each park Open more intermediate ski trails at Independence Oaks Open more areas to snowshoeing Ensure that bikers don’t use the foot trails in Independence Oaks and enforce leash laws Have available and clean bathroom facilities Enforce leash laws Expand trail system within parks and connect trails between parks via foot and bike connectors. 60 48067 60 Addison, Independence, Red, Waterford Hiking trails Anything you can do to improve on the hiking trails is appreciated Have Saturday or Sunday organized hikes with a nature speaker 61 48350 74 Independence, Rose, Springfield Hiking paths, Nature Center I like them the way they are. Response to Q4: Fund the Nature Centers in Red Oaks and Independence Oaks so they can be open to visitors more often. The hours are so limited right now that people assume the centers are permanently closed. Stop all use of herbicides in the parks. It's becoming clear that Roundup and its cousins are terrible for all living creatures. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 13 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 62 48071 31 Red Keeping the golf course at red oaks and not converting it to a park is extremely disappointing. 63 48375 52 Addison, Highland, Independence, Lyon, Waterford, White Lake Lakes and walking trails. Improve beach areas. And restroom facilities. Lower admission fees. 64 48328 25 Highland, Waterford I love the trails at Waterford Oaks, and I love how close it is to my home. The current trails are maintained well for the most part. I also love the large sledding hill for use in the winter. More trails would be nice, as well as improving the waterpark structures. I would love to see the pool become a public pool as mentioned in the Recreation Plan. I also think more sports courts would be nice. It is hard to find access to a basketball court around here. I also love the idea of having food truck events throughout the summer. Adding more signage and trail maps throughout the park would be nice. I would also love to see more sports courts as I mentioned above. I also think more trash cans and dog poop bag dispensers throughout the parks would make it so that the parks are taken care of better. I think the plan for the parks are great, and I would love to see the improvements happen in the next 5 years! 65 48076 24 Addison, Catalpa, Red trails add more native plants increase educational signage to make visiting the parks and learning experience I appreciate the amount of effort that went into identifying the potential for sustainability upgrades. I would love to see the sustainability goals prioritized. 66 48371 50 Addison, Independence Hiking/mountain bike trails through the woods and around the lake Flush toilet access year round Address invasive species Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 14 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 67 48371 50 Addison, Groveland, Orion, Springfield Walking trails Remove invasive plants and restore the lakes Having restrooms open in the winter More winter activities Maybe a lantern walk and snowshoe trails 68 48073 35 Catalpa, Groveland Beach, picnick areas They are often messy, and need cleaning Too expensive I don't think the cost of indoor swimming pools is worth it 69 48328 65 Addison, Groveland, Independence, Waterford Walking trails More camping a d winter activities More staff on site 70 48357 47 I have not visited an Oakland County Park Trails, aquatic centers, activities buildings Update and expand Aqutic centers, maintain current trails, partner with communities on connecting or developing trails, infrastructure updates to modernize facilities to be environmentally friendly as possible Continue to invest in maintaining facilities at the high level possible 71 48348 56 Independence Trails Connect walking trails to neighboring park ( Clintonwood). Swimming area was dirty/full of weeds. We were not able to swim because of the poor condition. Trails to connect to parks where possible. Overall, very happy with our parks. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 15 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 72 46462 51 Addison, Groveland, Holly Oaks ORV Park, Independence, Lyon, Orion, Red, Springfield, Waterford TRAILS!!!! Promote the trials and add trails. I went to Springfield Oaks County fair and was not aware that there are walking trails available for public use at the golf course. I wanted to walk in the Springfield area and was disappointed because I wasn't aware of the trails. Also, in the winter, I hate that the trail use is limited at Independence Oaks, because of the cross country ski use. It really seems unfair to limit the trail use to walkers. Better signs and trail markers. At Independence, new trail map signs were put up, which look nice, but then the arrows to mark trail direction are so lame. It really doesn't look professional. At waterford Oaks, the trail marking is practically non-existent and I didn't even know there were trails at Springfield Oaks. Over-all I think that Oakland County does a really nice job of providing a wholesome, well- rounded park experience! I think Oakland County does an excellent job of engaging with the community to finds ways to offer more ways to enjoy nature and the communities that make up the park system. The Draft Rec. Plan was very interesting to read through. So much more work is put into analyzing what park amenities are being utilized then I realized. Planning for the future is a difficult task and I feel Oakland County Parks really cares about improving the communities in which they partner. I look forward to seeing your hard work in process at the parks. 73 48085 57 Orion Area for the dog and water. Nice paths for hiking or hybrid biking. Shelter (shade) in the summer. Pickleball. It would be great to have more venues outside of the town parks. More activities and advertisement of the events within each park. I didn't know, until this survey, how many of the parks we had and that they were Oakland county parks. 74 48329 48 Catalpa, Groveland, Independence, Springfield, Waterford, White Lake Trails, access to lakes for swimming or kayaking I would like to see some Pickleball courts added, particularly to Waterford Oaks. I am not yet an avid player, but would like to see more courts available in the area to allow more opportunity to play. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 16 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 75 48073 59 Red Golf and Biking Oakland county needs more Pickleball parks and Ideally a large venue to host tournaments for this growing sport. 76 48009 43 Catalpa, Glen, Red Catalpa Oaks is one of our family's favorite parks. Our son plays soccer for DCFC South Oakland, and I played in a softball league there in years past. 77 48070 44 Catalpa Soccer fields Better maintain the soccer fields at catalpa oaks Add soccer fields 78 48073 42 Addison, Catalpa, Glen, Red Catalpa Oaks, and Red oaks. My son plays soccer and the fields at both of these parts are fantastic. Honestly, not much. They are really nice for sports and parties. Continuing to maintain the playgrounds and pavilions along with the green spaces. 79 48323 40 Catalpa It’s where my son and daughter plays soccer. Keep them clean and safe Keep them clean and safe 80 48067 49 Catalpa, Independence, Orion, Red Soccer Fields Invest in quality soccer fields, maybe seek to have a tournament in the future. Soccer fields as a priority. Please have soccer fields as a priority. 81 48072 56 Catalpa Catalpa Oaks is best maintained park for youth sports in the area. The soccer fields, the walking path, the playground, the bathrooms. The best think that could be done is to maintain Catalpa Oaks as it is, perhaps improve the fields (if possible). I love the county parks, I wish there were more in South East Oakland County. My daughter plays soccer for DCFC South Oakland and we are around Catalpa Oaks throughout the year. Please keep investing in parks like Catalpa Oaks! Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 17 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 82 48076 50 Catalpa For sure the Soccer fields and the loop We love Catalpa oaks for SOCS soccer. Socs loves catalpa oaks!! 83 48072 50 Catalpa, Red We absolutely LOVE the playground, soccer fields and baseball fields at Catalpa Oaks. It's the only open green area space we have around us and LOVE having access to the fields as a DCFC family. Pretty please can you leave Catalpa Oaks available to our club and keep the open greenspace available to the residents? We love it there SO MUCH. Thank you! Just keep Catalpa Oaks exactly like it is, the pavilion is also amazing. I think you're doing a great job as it is..........it's getting expensive to take our child and a few friends to Red Oaks but we will keep doing it, because we love having it close by in our community. We've camped at so many of the other parks over the years, too. You're doing a great job with our OC Parks, keep it up! We love sports and thank you for allowing our soccer club to use Catalpa Oaks. We get lots of spectators to the games who "discover" what an amazing park it is, so thank you! Nope, you're doing great. Thank you! 84 48067 41 Catalpa Soccer fields. Improve the soccer fields. Include a 9x9 field. Better soccer fields. My son plays for DCFC South Oakland. We visit Catalpa 2 x a week. 85 48070 42 Catalpa, Independence We enjoy playing soccer at Catalpa Oaks (SOCS league). I also enjoy fishing, hiking and paddle boarding at parks that have those amenities More environmentally friendly products and options More environmentally friendly products and options 86 48072 40 Catalpa, Glen, Red Response to Q2: Catalpa Oaks! Soccer fun a few times a week. We ride our bikes up and it is great to walk around while the kids have practice. A staple for Berkley/ RO/ Southfield /Oak Park/ HW Response to Q5: We play DCFC and love all the parks we have had practice and games at but I grew up in Berkley going to Catalpa Oaks and love that now that we moved back home, my kids are growing up playing there as well Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 18 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 87 48070 50 Catalpa Soccer fields. Walking track. My kids play soccer for DCFC and having the practice and game fields close is invaluable. I also see groups play pick-up soccer on the fields and use the BBQs. It’s a great community park. Better fields. More parks near where people actually live. 88 48070 51 Addison, Catalpa, Red catalpa Oaks Keep the soccer fields up and running! Shade areas would be nice near the fields. Thank you!!! 89 48237 34 Catalpa, Red, Rose, Waterford Catalpa Keep maintaining the soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks, my son loves it there Please keep maintaining catalpa oaks 90 48072 39 Catalpa, Red My daughter plays for DCFC at both parks The soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks are great Response to Q6: Growing up in western Oakland County, there were plenty of high quality soccer fields to develop my skills. Raising my family in Berkley does not have that luxury due to lack of space. Without the great facilities at Catalpa Oaks, my daughters would not have (reasonably close) quality soccer fields that are important to their development. 91 48070 45 Catalpa, Red We love catalpa oaks for the soccer fields Nothing Nothing No No 92 48070 46 Catalpa The soccer fields. Lights on the fields would be cool. 93 48301 49 Catalpa soccer fields, nature serve the southern half of the county. reduce admission for taxpayers. 94 48025 43 Catalpa Response to Q2: The beautiful soccer fields. Great playground equipment. Response to Q5: My son plays soccer with DCFC South Oakland. We love having soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks Park! Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 19 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 95 48070 43 Catalpa Catalpa Oaks Our kids play for DCFC South Oakland and we love the facilities here! 96 48076 49 Catalpa, Orion For our pleasure - we enjoy nature paths. For our family - we spend a lot of time at soccer fields, specifically Catalpa Oaks. We love Catalpa Oaks for soccer - improved drainage would help! My child plays soccer with DCFC South Oakland. We love having soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks Park! 97 48067 44 Catalpa, Glen, Lyon, Red Soccer fields at Catalpa 98 48034 35 Catalpa My child plays soccer with SOCS and loves this park! 99 48072 51 Catalpa, Lyon, Orion, Red Soccer fields, dog parks Better field conditions for soccer at Catalpa Oaks. More dock access for dogs at Orion Oaks. Response to Q6: Continued funding needed to improve/maintain soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks. Have two kids playing for DCFC South Oakland and it's an important part of this community to have those facilities available nearby for practice/games and allow for more participation. 100 48076 17 Catalpa The soccer fields. Improve the soccer fields. Please keep the soccer fields. 101 48071 43 Catalpa, Red The soccer facilities and fields. Continue maintaining the soccer fields and playgrounds Splash park in red oaks Response to Q6: Please continue to maintain our soccer fields at catalpa oaks and red oaks. My Kids play soccer for dcfc south oakland and these facilities and the fields are so crucial to soccer in the areas 102 48072 38 Catalpa, Red Soccer fields for our kids. Leveling the ground, maybe some additional wind blocking on the larger fields. All of the parks are excellent, definitely keeping them all at the high quality they're at. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 20 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 103 48221 35 Catalpa How well maintained they are with play areas for all areas and great onsite bathrooms that are open! Keep them just as they are! We have two children that play for SOCS and love this park for soccer and a great place we could use the pavilion area for picnics in the park! 104 48070 46 Addison, Catalpa, Lyon Lyon Oaks We have kids who play soccer with SOCS and we love Catalpa Oaks! Please keep investing in Catalpa Oaks! 105 48072 41 Catalpa, Independence, Red Soccer fields at Catalpa, trails and nature centers at Red Oaks and Independence Oaks Keep the soccer fields! Our kids play with SOCS. 106 48220 49 Catalpa The fields, bathrooms, walking path Keep the open spaces for children and community members to play sports and enjoy outside walks Remind Oakland county residents of all the parks have to offer! Response to Q5: I am a teacher in Berkley and we have rented the pavilion and had great end of the year class parties, playing on the playground and playing soccer and kickball on the fields. My own children have enjoyed many hours of soccer on the fields and I love the walking path as they are practicing, please keep Catalpa Oaks fields in good condition. We love it! 107 48075 38 Catalpa Soccer fields 108 48085 50 Addison, Catalpa The soccer fields at Catalpa are wonderful. The parks is well kept and makes it a place we enjoy visiting even when my girls don't have practice. Keeping the soccer fields maintained and in the future plans for continued improvement projects. No comments My daughter's play soccer for DCFC South Oakland, and we were impressed by this park. We enjoyed the ability to walk the trail and still be able to see the girls. These soccer fields are one reason we chose this club, and drive from Troy for this team. Please continue to consider the continued maintenance and improvements to all the soccer fields to allow for proper development of current and future soccer players. These well kept fields allow for players of all levels to compete in a beautiful and safe manner. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 21 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 109 48331 35 Catalpa My child plays soccer here Please keep maintaining! N/A N/A N/A 110 48072 47 Addison, Catalpa, Orion Catalpa Oaks is always a favorite. My son plays soccer there in the SOCS program. The dog park and attached park at Orion Oaks are great too (for dogs and trail running). The parks I visit are great and I really value them as part of our community. I wouldn't mind more trail running trails. But I realize it's a bit niche. 111 48033 36 Catalpa The soccer fields. My daughter is close to home to play and practice at the fields at Catalpa and that is such a blessing. I love the playground for my little children to be able to play. I love the walking track for myself and spouse to be able to have physical activity close to home. The maintenance and attention to this park is wonderful. I wish the bathrooms stayed open alittle later in the season but understand the need to winterize. Keep the parks open and available for the community to utilize and not have to go outside the county to have the much needed resources. Please keep Catalpa open and available for our soccer needs especially. 112 48072 38 Catalpa Soccer fields and playground Keep the soccer fields going for SOCS! 113 48034 41 Catalpa, Red Catalpa by far is my favorite as we get to run or walk the path while the kids play on the playground and have soccer leagues. I walk through the path on Lahser woods and would love to see that developed as well similar to Catalpa. Walk and bike paths are always the best. Soccer fields Always focus on safety, avoid building paths with blind spots. More soccer fields near 48034 zip code more running paths thank you for all the hard work and planning Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 22 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 114 48072 38 Catalpa Soccer fields and playgrounds Keep soccer going for DCFC youth! 115 48304 53 Catalpa Soccer fields nice fields. DCFC South Oakland Soccer Player - Lila McLoughlin 116 48220 50 Catalpa, Red Our son plays soccer at Catalpa Oaks and we love the fields and facilities there. Continue to maintain the soccer fields. Provide more communication regarding the activities and amenities at the parks. 117 48072 38 Catalpa, Red Play structure along with soccer field My son plays for SOCS. It is important to us that the soccer fields are maintained in order to continue providing space for the soccer programs in the area. 118 48072 41 Catalpa, Red, Waterford The open space. The ample play structures for children. The soccer fields! Concession stands. Vending machines. More play things. More fields for football soccer and other out door sports. See above. 119 48072 42 Catalpa, Red Catalpa Oaks - Our children play soccer with DCFC South Oakland Evening lighting 120 48070 37 Catalpa Soccer practices at Catalpa Oaks Improve the quality of the soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks. Response to Q6: Please do not reduce the parking at Catalpa Oaks. It is already difficult to find a spot when picking up kids from soccer practice, and the proposed plan to eliminate the parking along Catalpa will lead to kids having difficulty locating their parents after practice, and potentially leading to car accidents as they walk along Catalpa to find their car. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 23 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 121 48072 37 Catalpa, Red Soccer fields and walking paths 122 48072 52 Addison, Catalpa, Independence, Orion, Red Green space, beaches, water park Keep up the facilities maintenance- restrooms, garbage, signage (a field map at red oaks soccer would be very welcome) Continue to offer great programs - foraging, outdoor skills, star gazing, animals/nature, winter sports. Love the parks - my kid loves practicing with her socs soccer team at catalpa oaks and I love the variety of green spaces - suburban and more rural; we are HUGE fans of the red oaks waterpark. Berkley doesn’t have a community pool so that’s our go-to. Just please keep trying to do the best you can - I know resources are tight but the parks are so important. Thank you for your hard work. 123 48070 52 Catalpa Soccer fields. My daughter plays SOCS soccer. No suggestions other than normal maintenance. If possible, more green space in SE Oakland County. None None 124 48237 33 Catalpa, Red The soccer fields and play grounds, Catalpa Oaks in particular. My child plays with DCFC South Oakland and it’s such a blessing to have great fields available for the program to use and develop their teams on. Continue to maintain and invest in spaces for recreational sports 125 48084 36 I have not visited an Oakland County Park Sledding hill at catalpa oaks two years ago. Love fun, creative playgrounds for our 3.5,1 yr olds. Accessibility, restrooms for toddlers, fun play structures that challenge kids. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 24 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 126 48070 54 Catalpa Walking trail and soccer field. Also happy they have a normal bathroom We play soccer with DCFC so keeping the soccer open is Imperative please 127 48071 46 Catalpa, Red The soccer fields at Catalpa are great. My son plays there with DCFC South Oakland. For Red Oaks, we enjoy the nature center and the golf course. Can't think anything 128 48323 46 Catalpa, Red My son plays DCFC soccer and catalpa oaks is an important part of the program! Nothing - it’s great! Nothing N/A 129 48326 40 Catalpa The bathroom at Catalpa was a nice addition and it is usually fairly clean. Response to Q3: The soccer fields at Catalpa are abysmally poor and I have been playing on them for more than a decade. The County allows use of these fields too early in the year when the ground is still waterlogged so the turf gets turned over and destroyed. The fields require maintenance they never receive: This means watering, aerating, and regular overseeding. The topsoil mixture is wrong and retains too much moisture. The "drainage" solution applied to the fields was completely ineffective. The money spent on the fields was unwisely spent; they are in the same conditions now from how they started and it was all in one season. Twisted ankles is a common occurance just from running around the field. The County either needs to learn from organizations how to manage grass turf fields and apply those lessons to Catalpa, or just save some money and let the dandelions take over the field, because at least those will grow in those conditions. Response to Q4: Be more mindful of the damage to fields when sports are played in inclement weather. One game of soccer on a waterlogged field will require months to repair. The money earned from the rental of the single day won't even cover the cost to repair the damage. The leagues may complain, but the result will be healthier turf the rest of the days. 130 48070 35 Catalpa, Red Catalpa oaks park is great, good place to play soccer. Field conditions at catalpa could improve some N/A, they’re generally pretty good to me. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 25 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 131 48073 53 Catalpa My son plays soccer for a non-profit Oakland County youth soccer club that practices at Catalpa Oaks in the Spring & Fall. They also have games there often. There are no alternatives with full size fields in the area. Better maintenance of the soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks. They have a lot of bare dirt and holes. Sometimes when the soccer club has a field reserved, we show up and other organized groups are using the field without a reservation. The soccer fields get more use than is recorded. Some private adult teams and soccer training businesses use the fields on a regular schedule and don’t pay reservation fees. There could be a lot more revenue if the reservation system was enforced by the Oakland County Parks. Allow the full size soccer fields at Normandy Oaks Park in a Royal Oak to be used by organizations other than Royal Oak groups. The draft plan mentions high water bills at Catalpa Oaks. Installing artificial turf on one or more of the soccer fields would solve that problem and reduce maintenance costs. Turf fields are a green alternative because the don’t require irrigation or gas burning lawn mowing. The turf systems use many recycled materials. They are also water permeable. Maybe partner with the biggest stakeholders that use the soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks for maintenance or scheduling. There would be a large void in the area if the soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks were removed. 132 48072 42 Catalpa, Red Catalpa Oaks has a wonderful walking path and is a so close to our home. Our kids play soccer there and it’s so nice to have so many fields so they can practice and play close to home. Keep the soccer field space. It is such a valuable resource to SOCS and the community soccer teams Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 26 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 133 48073 49 Catalpa We love the Catalpa Oaks park! The soccer fields are used by our DCFC soccer club and so many parents/families use the playground and walking area during practices. Sometimes the soccer fields are run down/worn out. Maintenance Happy with the restroom facilities at Catalpa Oaks I noticed in the plan that there is thoughts of closing some of the soccer fields. This would be a huge loss to our DCFC soccer club. We are a non-profit organization and the use of these fields is critical to the success of our club and the numerous local families of use it. 134 48070 50 Catalpa The soccer fields! And the track around the park is nice too. Please keep the soccer fields in great shape. It’s nice to have DCFC soccer teams have the ability to use the fields and bring people to the park. Keep trails and soccer fields in good shape. My kids play with DCFC soccer and we love visiting catalpa and all county and local parks for soccer. 135 48070 44 Addison, Catalpa, Red Everything. Love the parks. Love the greenspaces. Part of DCFC South Oakland and love soccer at Catalpa. 136 48083 41 Catalpa The soccer fields for the youth programs. I also love the paths, playgrounds, and the condition of the Catalpa Oaks Park. My son plays for DCFC south Oakland soccer program and we love Catalpa Oaks! 137 48072 42 Catalpa The soccer fields Keep soccer fields well maintained with positive drainage and repairing areas where the grass is dead. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 27 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 138 48073 43 Catalpa, Holly Oaks ORV Park Please continue to support and maintain soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks :) 139 48070 36 Catalpa Great athletic fields! Love when my kids are playing/practicing and I can walk the track Occasional security/police presence would be good when there are several different groups there at once More of a compliment, but bathrooms are always clean at Catalpa Oaks. Please keep up- it’s so appreciated 140 48323 42 I have not visited an Oakland County Park Drake and Kensington Add sports bubble to drake sports park so we can play in the winter pickleball. Invite seasonal private food catering service to open restaurants in the middle of green, there is very limited outdoor seatins restaurants in Michigan due to weather and those who have it, have very bad views. Response to Q5: An investment in artificial recreational facilities for families will be nice, like themed restaurants, indoor multi activity sports and entertainment places. Malls are getting emptied, these empty locations could be used better if those guys thinks outside the box or try to bring top class entertainment vendors from innovative escape rooms to indoor family themed playgrounds 141 48072 44 Catalpa The playground, sledding hill, open fields and walking trails. bathrooms Food options Nothing 142 48237 34 Catalpa, Glen, Independence, Lyon, Red, Waterford Soccer fields and playground conditions Restrooms at the park 143 48071 52 Red Walking trails Add more walking and biking trails to southeast Oakland Add more walking and biking trails to southeast Oakland The red oaks golf course in Madison heights should be converted to a more inclusive park that doesn’t just cater to the few niche golfers in the area Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 28 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 144 48009 76 Catalpa soccer fields with a public restroom facility bathroom facilities open for recreationnal meets please keep and support or improve soccer fields 145 48070 40 Catalpa Soccer fields, playground, bathrooms Open bathrooms more often Keep as much open space as possible. Have bathrooms at all playgrounds My kods play soccer for SOCS and they love the soccer fields 146 48073 46 Catalpa Catalpa Oaks Park Continue to maintain- this is a great park! My daughter plays soccer with DCFC South Oakland and we very much value the fields, track, and amenities at Catalpa Oaks! 147 48067 62 Red The walking trails being paved, are very easy to navigate. I love the woods, so my favorite part of the park is the forested area at the south end, however, both sides of the park are loved. This park is in close proximity to where I live, and I enjoy going there before heading off to work each day. The north side in particular, is overgrown with invasive species such as common Buckthorn and privet. It would be really nice to see the invasives removed. The south side has some invasive honeysuckle as well as some buckthorn. There has been work done to reduce the poison ivy, which I am not totally in favor of, being that it is native and birds and other critters use it. I understand the concern about people coming into contact with it, but it won't take long for them to learn to leave it alone! I am always amazed at how many people do not recognize poison ivy! Maybe better advertising...some of these parks I didn't know existed until I started reading thru the master plans. Most communities have local papers; why not publish articles once in a while highlighting different parks? I would love to see more native plants in the parks and things to encourage residents to plant more native plants in their gardens. Red Oaks, years ago, held a native plant sale and had a speaker there discussing the benefits of using natives; I would love to see more of that! Not really, it seems like there are some good things in the works. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 29 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 148 48070 59 Catalpa, Red The soccer fields. Response to Q3: At catalpa oaks there needs to be general maintenance of the soccer fields. OC recently spent almost a million dollars to upgrade 2 of the 4 fields and the new fields are not maintained. Also, invest in the 2 older fields. They need a complete overhaul. Many kids use this space for practice and games. SOCS/DCFC South Oakland (a community based/run club) has called this location home for years. They provide affordable soccer to many kids in SE Oakland County. Without this space over 1,500 kids are impacted. Response to Q4: More open green space. 149 48070- 1559 56 Catalpa soccer fields continue to do the amazing job of maintaining some of the nicest and accessible soccer fields in oakland county Keep up the amazing job The soccer fields at catalpa oaks are really impressive. They don’t ever seem to have any “worn out” spots, grass always trimmed, drainage is fanatastic - never any soft spots or puddles. On top of that, there is ample parking, which is much appreciated after trying to park your car in the over crowded city or school soccer fields. Please keep up the soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks! nothing to add at this time 150 48237 5 Catalpa So love playing soccer there More seating More seating Thank you for everything you’ve been doing 151 48302 61 Catalpa Soccer fields Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 30 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 152 48350 70 Addison I have visited various county parks over the years I’ve lived in Oakland County, close to 40 years. They are beautiful and a wonderful resource for residents, and probably others, too. Now that we are retired we have time and are always looking for locations to get out more. We look for bike/walking trails, snowshoe trails and, recently, kayak launches. Keep them as natural as possible, please. That’s what makes them so appealing. Access is important but without over commercializing. Keep or make them homes to native plants and trees. Use natural methods for controlling invasive growth, not chemicals that pollute and/or poison our land and water. Ensure funds for maintaining our parks and keeping them safe and clean. Thank you for this endeavor - for recognizing the importance of our green spaces. They provide that vital, and often absent, connection to our natural world. Not yet. 153 48025 43 Catalpa, Red Catalpa oaks - both my kids play with Dcfc youth soccer and practice there while I walk the park Red oaks golf course and soccer fields. We love to play at the golf courses and my kids play at the red oaks fields. I think they’re all very nice. Continue to maintain them Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 31 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 154 48348 67 Addison, Catalpa, Groveland, Highland, Holly Oaks ORV Park, Independence, Lyon, Orion, Rose, Waterford Response to Q2: I love all the parks. Each offers it's own amenities. I think Independence Oaks is the crown jewel of all the OCP&R parks. The natural surroundings are wonderful for walking your dog, hiking and cross country skiing in the backwoods, and kayaking on Crooked Lake. I love the trails at Orion Oaks for much of the same. I also love the program events for Special Needs individuals that Sandy Dorey runs. As a volunteer for Sandy, I was thrilled this past summer that she partnered OCP&R with Disability Network Eastern Michigan for special needs kayaking as a new activity. I cannot give Sandy enough accolades for all of her efforts. Response to Q3: I am a volunteer for OCP&R and love the Ambassador Program, the Bird Box Monitoring Program, the Nordic Ski Patrol Program, the Special Needs Programs, and Special Events like Fire & Ice and the Marshmallow Drop. Now that CISMA is directly part of OCP&R, I am hoping volunteer events will be created around invasive plant removal and the planting of native flowers, bushed, and trees. I currently volunteer for these activities with Blue Heron Headwaters Conservancy and Clinton River Watershed Council. I know that Oriental Bittersweet is a problem at Orion Oaks. Lastly, I noticed that the number of volunteers listed in the Recreation Draft plan was 1500 in 2019, 1700 in 2020, and 1700 on 2021. Yesterday, I saw the number of volunteers is currently at 1890 per VicNet. I am curious about the demographics of this group. I look at the trend continuing to increase as there are many people like myself who want to help improve our parks. I hope OCP&R is looking closely at creating more volunteer opportunities to help keep our parks the best they can be! Response to Q4: Keep doing what you are doing. Although I love all the parks close to me in Clarkston, I am happy to see OCP&R looking to improve parks further south in Oakland County. I used to live in Southfield and made use of many local parks, but not many OCP&R parks. I volunteered with Genisys Credit Union to clean Hawthorne Park as part of the 21st Annual Clinton River Clean Up this past fall. I am anxious to see how OCP&R will try to improve this park. Response to Q5: For anyone living in Oakland County that has not visited the OCP&R parks, they do not know what they are missing. The plants and wild life in the more rustic parts of the parks are wonderful for stress relieving activities. The camp sites at Addison Oaks and Groveland Oaks attract many families. The five golf courses offer this activity to new and seasoned golfers. I have never had a bad experience when visiting any of the parks. OCP&R should be proud of all of the friendly and helpful personnel working there! Response to Q6: In Figure 3: Facility Inventory, it shows no check mark for biking at Orion Oaks. I know there is no skating at Orion Oaks, but there definitely is mountain biking. Maybe it is better to break "Biking and skating" into two categories. I am also curious about what happens with the Water Park in Waterford. It is a difficult cost versus benefit analysis. Good luck. 155 48073 38 Catalpa, Independence, Red, Waterford Well-maintained fields for sports, open space, having a much needed space to connect with nature. Push playground equipment innovation for a wide range of ages. Toddlers through teenagers. Maintain the equipment. Add fitness areas for adults. An easier to navigate website and scheduling system. We love parks and all citizens need them to break up the dense urbanization around us! Keep every square inch of park land! Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 32 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 156 48070 51 Catalpa The soccer fields! Thank you! My children have grown up using them. Continue to maintain the fields for socs and dcfc use. We appreciate it! 157 48070 42 Catalpa, Red Catalpa Oaks Response to Q5: We LOVE Catalpa Oaks - our kids all either play SOCS or DCFC soccer there, and the facilities are AMAZING!!!! 158 48237 48 Catalpa The soccer fields! My daughter plays soccer for SOCS there and loves it. Keep maintaining the soccer fields. 159 48072 51 Catalpa, Red The well maintained soccer fields, playgrounds and bathrooms. At this point, nothin Response to Q5: Please keep maintaining the soccer fields. Catalpa serves as the base for my boy's soccer team, DCFC. It is such an blessing to have such wonderful facilities in densely populated South Oakland County. 160 48073 47 Catalpa Quality of the soccer fields More garbage cans. My child plays for DFCF South Oakland 161 48072- 1653 47 Catalpa, Red Catalpa oaks. Children play SOCS soccer and the fields are great. 162 48301 51 Catalpa, Lyon The soccer fields They are excellent 163 48072 49 Catalpa Catalpa Oaks is convenient and has great green space for the area 164 48073 49 Catalpa, Red Continue to invest in them More park access or partnerships in the south end of the county. Response to Q6: Continue to invest on the soccer fields at catalpa oaks. The DCFC organization is doing a wonderful job with our kids and they need a premier facility. 165 48072 37 Catalpa, Red Catalpa Oaks My children play for SOCS and we greatly value the soccer fields. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 33 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 166 48025 43 Catalpa Catalpa Oaks is a wonderful park! The two playgrounds are great for kids of various ages, and the 0.8 trail makes for great walking. My son plays for DCFC South Oakland and his practice at the park 2 times a week. Our entire family is able to go and enjoy the parks during this time. Also, the bathroom facility is excellent! More lighting so that in the Fall/Winter the park can be used for longer period. In October soccer practices must be shortened to try to avoid being in the park at dark. Clean restrooms at all parks. well lit so it feels safe to use early morning and later in the evening. Thank you Oakland County for prioritizing a wonderful park system! 167 48072 43 Catalpa Response to Q2: We live very close to Catalpa Oaks and have used it for a variety of reasons. I use the track to run while my children (who play with the SOCS organization) use the soccer fields. We also meet friends to use the playground and the pavilion. 168 48301 58 Catalpa The soccer fields. My daughter played on a SOCS recreational soccer team this fall. The Catalpa Oaks field was our home field. The playing surface was nicely maintained, which helps the ball roll in the direction it is kicked! Continue to maintain the soccer field grass Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 34 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 169 48301 58 Catalpa The soccer fields. My daughter played on a SOCS recreational soccer team this fall. The Catalpa Oaks field was our home field. The playing surface was nicely maintained, which helps the ball roll in the direction it is kicked! Continue to maintain the soccer field grass 170 48072 46 Catalpa, Red The green space for kids to run around. The walking trail at Catalpa Oaks is fantastic for all ages to utilize. Continue to maintain them to keep them safe and in tip top shape. 171 48326 58 Orion, Red Stoney Creek Bald Mountain Red Oaks - Madison Heights Auburn Hills Down Town City Park Continue to advance trails for biking and walking. Extend interlinking bike trails. Oakland County Parks are the best. A huge reason our family stays in Oakland County. 172 48070 55 Catalpa Soccer fields are awesome. my kids play soccer with SOCS. clean up the walking trails, they need some maintenance. create more parks. 173 48072 43 Catalpa The soccer field. My kid play soccer with DCFC South Oakland there. Also the track trail Keeping the park clean as it has been always More publicity about park. Sometimes you don't know the amount of parks available in the county 174 48076 51 Catalpa My daughter plays soccer for DCFC (and before that with SOCS) and is on the fields every spring and fall. It has great facilities and I appreciate the walking track so I can get steps in while she practices. I think Catalpa is a great park and always maintained well. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 35 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 175 48070 38 Catalpa, Red Catalpa Oaks More soccer fields! my sons play with SOCS and we could use more fields for practice 176 48098 62 Addison Mountain bike trails and picnic areas. Addison Oaks is a beautiful park. Add mountain bike trails to those parks that have the room to do so. None None 177 48237 41 Catalpa Playground, soccer fields, walking paths, picnic areas. My child plays soccer with SOCS, so the soccer field at Catalpa Oaks is important! They are nice. Just keep up on maintaining the great facilities! Response to Q6: If you do get involved with Shepherd Park….please do not build up to encroach on the little bit of nature we have in that nature trail! Build up the parts of the park that aren’t currently part of the nature trail area. 178 48072 41 Catalpa, Red Soccer fields and playground at Catalpa Oaks - they are well maintained and great for our family and for the SOCS / DCFC youth soccer leagues we are a part of. We also love the track around the field. Continue to maintain the soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks, please! These are a huge asset to our youth and many adults who play there. 179 48072 47 Catalpa Response to Q2: My son plays for DCFC South Oakland. We love the use of the soccer fields for practice. They fields are SO close to our house. So convenient. Please continue to work with DCFC South Oakland to utilize and maintain the fields. Thank you! Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 36 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 180 48067 33 Catalpa Response to Q2: Catalpa Oak Park for soccer Response to Q3: As Executive Director of a non - profit youth soccer organization, with 99.5% of its over 1500 youth soccer players residing in Oakland County, playing for South Oakland County Soccer (recreational) and Detroit City FC South Oakland ( travel) we heavily rely on Catalpa Oak Park and it’s soccer fields. In South Oakland County there is Limited Green space for the youth sport #1 in the country - soccer and we are happily offering soccer programs at catalpa Oak park and it’s fields. Improvements: - more ongoing field improvements ( filling holes with dirt , seeding etc ) - better field maintenance Note: our organization cancels practices and games when there is heavy rain in order to PROTECT the fields when needed . We care about this park and it’s soccer fields and we show that by taking care of it. - more use for soccer across ALL four Fields 11vs 11 + 1 7vs7 field for our non- profit , community soccer organization. Based on the growth of soccer our demand went up. We have previously mentioned numerous time more use across all 4*11 vs11 fields plus the 7vs7 field. There is no need to take 2 fields off line at the time but 3 online and one off could be a reasonable solution for field preservation. Our Oakland County members want and need more soccer field time at Catalpa Oak Park Response to Q4: Understand the needs of the residents in specific areas. South Oakalnd County is limited on Green space compared to Clarkston and the users needs further north. Our numbers show the demand for soccer and soccer fields at Catalpa Oak Park. We have now members from Berkley , HW, Royal Oak, Beverly Hills, Bloomfield Hills, Birmingham, Troy , Clawson , Madison Heights, Ferndale, West Bloomfield, Southfield, pleasant Ridge, Oak Park, Hazel Park and more ALL using Catalpa Oak Park soccer fields for our youth soccer club. The soccer fields are needed , wanted and we are happily being MORE involved as a club partnering with the county to actively support ongoing soccer fields maintenance , field improvements and expansion! Improvement: Further partner ( in all capacities, partners in maintenance and mowing , more field use or Long term lease - we are open for ALL options ) with our organization to improve Catalpa Oak Park soccer fields long term Response to Q5: We have established a good working relationship with Doug and the county leadership group and look to further expand and intensify our ties. We offered our help in many ways in the past like : - active support with field maintenance - active support with field mowing - field lining ( our club ALREADY lines the soccer fields for all users ) Looking to expand that collaboration and support More actively but waiting on the green light from the county officials. We are here to stay and help to make Catalpa Oak Park better for all and are open to ALL conversations about a long term partnership between county and our club in regards to soccer fields at Catalpa Oak Park. Also, since soccer is youth sport #1 not only in the US but also in Michigan , especially Oakland County , WE NEED green space ( soccer fields) for our Oakland County residents to play on. Our community soccer club, CAN FILL all four soccer fields Spring , Summer and Fall (april- November) with soccer offerings during the week and on weekends for games at Catalpa. The demand for soccer and more soccer is there which is also shown by our club growth of over 140% in the last 3 years to now 1500 + players across both programs- facts ! We want to further partner with the Oakland County leadership and MAKE SURE our Oakland County residents have soccer fields and improved soccer fields in South Oakland County — > Catalpa Oak park. Developers have bought up most of the land in our area and our membership and our organization heavily relies on Catalpa Oak Park and it’s 4* 11 vs 11 soccer fields and 1 * 7vs7 field. The walking path around the park is majority wise Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 37 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? #180 Response to Q5, continued: ALSO used from our membership ( parents walking and jogging during youth soccer practices and games ). Note: I advocated for one Astro turf field at catalpa Oak park due to almost no maintenance cost and higher rentals for years! Based on the where we live with its climate that’s the smarter, cost efficient and long term solution then re- building two grass fields —> fruit for thought . We can support this project too with use and financials as well if it ever is taken seriously based on ROI, maintenance , usage , possibilities etc Response to Q6: Remarks about Catalpa Oak Park and soccer use: - Our non profit soccer club can and wants to rent all 4 11vs 11 fields + 7vs7 field! We were told we can only use certain fields at times so if it’s about showing the use —> Let us use more and fill it up so it reflects the ACTUAL need for soccer fields and not what was described in the plan for catalpa - ongoing maintenance and mowing : We have offered numerous times in the past that our organization can support with ongoing support or can also take that portion over completely—> lets us do it and help subsidize financials for the county so it isn’t as high as it’s “claimed “ to be 181 48070 53 Catalpa, Glen, Red Glenn Oaks for golf, Catalpa Oaks for my child's soccer team. Glenn Oaks is great, but too many geese. Catalpa Oaks has the only soccer fields in our immediate area that my kid's teams SOCS teams use for practice and games. It's a great location for both. Some of the soccer fields could use some maintenance work in the goal box areas and damaged spots. We hope that Oakland County Parks continues to maintain the soccer fields for youth players. There's so many kids in this area who play soccer! We hope that any efforts to improve Catalpa Oaks keep the big fields intact. It's great to see kids and adults play soccer, and even lacrosse out on the fields, too! Youth sports should be a high priority use for spaces in county parks that can support team sports activitites, like Catalpa Oaks and Lyon Oaks. 182 48070 56 Catalpa, Glen, Holly Oaks ORV Park Catalpa Oaks is a great venue for DCFC South Oakland soccer and my kids have enjoyed playing there. Me and my kids also enjoy playing golf at Glen Oaks. Holly Oaks is a blast! Not once being at Catalpa Oaks is the pavilion open which I'd assume would be selling beverages and food. Why build it if you aren't going to staff it? The county could probably make a few bucks selling bbq or hamburgers and hotdogs. 183 48070 47 Catalpa Soccer fields Parking lot My child plays soccer with SOCS Keep Catalpa Oaks soccer fields Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 38 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 184 48069 41 Catalpa Love catalpa oaks park- love the location!!!!!!!!!!!! More seating, more shaded areas, keep up bathrooms, update playground. More trash cans Not enough well maintained soccer fields, indoor and out. We have to travel so far for decent fields. 185 48085 51 I have not visited an Oakland County Park I wish I am able to afford specifics that I enjoy about a park or parks that I have or my family has frequented but I cannot at this time. However, it does prevent me from expressing the importance the Oakland County Parks have on the residents and environment. They provide a place of refuge and tranquility, where friends and families can gather to enjoy each other's company. Not every square foot has to be a home or business. There is still room for nature. Simply put Oakland County is better with them than without. Please continue to keep them clean and safe. Take the necessary measures that are required for their continued success. Please continue to keep them clean and safe. Take the necessary measures that are required for their continued success. Thank you and good luck! Please continue to keep them clean and safe. Take the necessary measures that are required for their continued success. 186 48072 33 Catalpa The running trail, playground, soccer fields 187 48070 45 Catalpa, Red The playgrounds and the soccer fields. Response to Q5: Please keep the soccer fields. My children are involved in SOCS and we love having parks so close they can play at. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 39 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 188 48070 60 Catalpa, Red soccer facilities maintenance continue to improve / expand south Oakland facilities, access, etc need to review 189 48067 57 Response to Q2: For any park I visit, my favorite parts include: walking paths, trails , raised walkways, scenic look outs; historic structures included such as barns, old homes; way-finding - good maps and posts to ensure it is clear how to arrive and return; signs and information regarding indigenous cultural information, former residents, native trees, plants and ecosystems, animals, what the county is doing to preserve, restore and protect both our natural and cultural assets .. and going further than protecting to restore what was in place during pre-settlement times; clear designation of who has priority: who yields to whom (bike, walk, horse, etc.); absolutely prefer non-motorized recreation so parks where there are no ATVs, cars, motor boats, etc.; clear signs the park is being maintained with the absolute minimum of toxic chemicals, least amount of mowing necessary, no gas powered leaf blowers, etc. (when these things are present it diminishes greatly the park experience). Today, we know to fight climate change, the natural environment is 100% as essential as any work to mitigate carbon. Response to Q3: '-Increase the presence of Native Trees, Shrubs, and Plants - especially Keystone Species to restore ecosystems. - Create no-mow areas under trees with native plants -Ensure the parks are accessible via walking, biking, transit; not just car; especially for people living in a 1 - 5 mile radius (this might require cooperating with the Oakland County Road Commission, MDOT, and local governments) but it is essential for residents to have healthy communities to have connectivity to parks via other means than just driving. The whole park experience should be part of the community experience. -Discontinue the use of any herbicides and pesticides (this includes not spraying insects) to restore natural ecosystems and allow natural pests (birds, bats) to control insects -Protect water -- no chemicals used on lawns .. even in golf and sports areas; seek the most environmentally friendly options for maintenance -Use natural materials for play areas (no poured in place, recycled tires ... that might leach toxins into the ground water) -Identify and increase information about important indigenous and other communities -Provide information and visuals regarding invasive species people should watch for and remove in their own properties; and similarly identify and provide information about native trees and plants people should continue planting at their own properties Response to Q4: Collaborate with other park systems throughout the county to create connectivity and accessibility park to park as well as to increase awareness of what is available. For the average person, it might not be clear to them which are city versus county versus state parks and similarly which have entrance fees or not. Make sure there are opportunities for all ages and abilities - including those who don't drive or don't want to drive (kids, elders, households with no car). Include in the strategy specific girl and women friendly practices because studies show parks are utilized less by women and girls due to facilities not meeting their needs as well as for boys. Response to Q5: Reading through the survey by ETC Institute, I would like to note that there is no mention in the choices regarding Biking and Walking ... trails are mentioned but it is not clear if there are any specific facilities for biking. Why is this important? In our entire region, infrastructure for safe biking is very poor. And, if people are looking for safe places to bike, if it is not a choice for receiving funding, it cannot show up in the survey results. Bike facilities is not an option in the survey. Again, in question regarding Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 40 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? #189 Response to Q5, continued: programs, biking is not included. Perhaps attention to bike (mountain bike, road bike, others) plus arrival to parks by bike (cooperation with street design) could replace some of the lesser used recreational opportunities. Biking and Skating are included, however, in the inventory of current facilities. So it seems a strange disconnect to not have it on the survey. Similarly, guided walks / hikes is not included (except for birdwatching). Response to Q6: Overall, really appreciate the focus on equity, health & well-being, environmental protection along with general management. Very, very glad to see an emphasis on filling gaps and serving those who are marginalized. Good to see the purchase for preservation of some land in Troy. Great to leverage the parks to purchase and protect more land in the county. Infill development within already existing human settlements along with the protection and ecological restoration of existing land still in a relatively natural (undeveloped) state can increase preservation and water protection efforts and balance the impact of our communities (human settlements). As it is feasible, acquiring more land for preservation and restoration. The healthiest communities in the future will be those that benefit from natural places - due to improved air and water quality, quiet, access to nature, etc. Very glad to see special attention to communities with less access to county parks. Would like to see more emphasis on cooperation with those who design streets and roads to increase accessibility via biking and other assisted means by increasing safe (not on the street, separate) biking infrastructure throughout the county -- especially connecting county parks to nearby communities (since this plan focuses on parks). Increase residents knowledge about the five watersheds and how their home practices can impact water. Since water quality in the region is considered the most important (73% rated v. important, 22% important, so 95% of responses rated this highly), this issue should be addressed in the parks and also the parks can be a teaching tool for helping people understand what to do at home as well. "Manage freshwater & stormwater resources to protect water quality & reduce flooding" Consider how the addition of strategically placed Pocket Parks, Native Plantings, and Microforests can provide better access to parks in walking or biking distance AND increase access to greenspace where it is strategically needed. Perhaps this is a collaboration with cities. (lower income cities end to have fewer resources to manage parks, so micro-county parks could be particularly important) Where can the baselines for the KPIs be found? Page 23-25 - only mountain biking mentioned; no road / street biking - safety classes, how to ride a bike, etc. and access to alternative services is going to include median drive time ... but for truly accessible services by all ages and abilities you also need bike, walk, and transit access. Page 28 - Health & Wellness will also be supported if Park to Park connections were increased via slow streets or Greenways (ideally with no cars) but given lots of excess streets and roads, a network of sidestreets dedicated first to biking (with car access limited to residents for example) could serve as a healthy, greenway connecting communities to the parks and connecting park to park .. for running, biking and simply park access (also supports sustainability and environmental protection by decreasing dependence on cars) Page 28 - within Environmental Sustainability - some mention of Native Trees and Plants, Keystone species and a related KPI seems like it would be important to include; for #5 regarding commodities .. using less might not be the right measure, but rather using less detrimental or less polluting ... related some kind of action pertaining to ensuring all Requests for Services by vendors explicitly enumerates biodegradable products preferred. Page 30 - Goal 2E. great to see included support of composting. One challenge that maybe county staff can help to shift, is the fact that we don't have city or county collection of compostables to include cardboard, compostable containers, etc. Another systemic problem is the state bans local governments from requiring vendors to use only compostable packaging. These two things make to much more difficult to act as a region, which impacts the parks. PAGE Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 41 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? #189 Response to Q6, continued: 30 - Goal 2B&C - Ensure access from nearby neighborhoods is possible walking and biking (and rolling - wheelchair use) for all ages (If an 8 year old and 80 year old can safely access, others can as well.) Page 31 - Goal 4 - consider pocket parks in communities with least access to county and other parks (increase nearby access to improve health through increased green space) Page 31 - Goal 5 - increase use of native plants, shrubs, and trees; identify heritage trees and landscapes, especially those which are pre-colonial / pre-settlement and/or of specific cultural as well as environmental value for special designation Great work!! Inspiring. Will repeat one more time, for each community within a mile (walking), five miles (biking), clear, safe access / mobility corridors will enhance the park experience and connect the parks to community. Coordinating with cities, state, county road commissions likely needed. Thanks to all involved with this work!!! 190 48220 46 Catalpa, Rose, Waterford Soccer Fields and Pavillion Area, Sledding Hill at Catalpa! Can't think of anything specific. We love Catalpa Oaks and have played soccer there for years! 191 48070 49 Catalpa Response to Q2: The soccer fields, bathroom facilities, walking track Response to Q3: Management of the soccer fields so when they are saturated from rain, no one uses them until they have dried to a reasonable firmness. Any activity on a saturated field destroys the grass, makes the field uneven, and potentially dangerous when it dries due to foot traffic depressions. Improve the drainage of the fields. Response to Q4: Ensuring that what is developed, changed, etc. is sustainable with what the parks can afford without special funding. A walking track is sustainable because once it's in place, there isn't a lot of maintenance. Partnering with local organizations to improve what's there e.g., adopt a park/field/playset/etc. Response to Q5: I really enjoy walking/jogging the track at Catalpa and watching hundreds of kids having fun playing soccer, getting exercise, etc. It adds such an enjoyable aspect and warmth to the park rather than the typical empty park feeling I've seen at other places. Response to Q6: I am concerned that sports fields are ranked quite low. Sports fields not only offer a configured area for sports, but when not in use, represent open field space that can be utilized for several different activities. I've seen kids and adults playing soccer, kids flying kites, kids practicing marching activities, etc. all on the same sports fields. The areas surrounding Catalpa (and those within a 10min drive) have been identified as a lower household income area. My experience has been that offering facilities like soccer fields is an incredibly economic value to these households because you can buy a ball for $10, and you're playing. You can use tennis shoes, and any shorts/pants. No special equipment is needed, and it's a game parents can play with their kids, kids with other kids, adults with other adults. Reviewing the master plan had a lot of activities identified that aren't suitable/possible for Catalpa. Those were more geared to the parks in northern Oakland County. I'm driven to review data to support ideas. I've found that many people throw ideas out but will then rarely follow through and use it for that purpose. As I use the track at Catalpa, I see a ton of kids playing soccer. That's my data, and removing those fields and putting say disk golf would not make Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 42 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? #191 Response to Q6, continued: sense. I agree that the baseball fields should be removed. In all my time over at Catalpa through the years, I have only seen a couple of games there. 99% of the time I haven't seen them used. Replacing those baseball fields with pickle ball and basketball courts is a great idea and would increase traffic in the park. It would compliment the soccer fields. Having a smaller covered area on that side of the park would also be valuable. If more investment is available for the soccer fields, drainage or a turf field would be a wonderful use of funds. 192 48072 41 Catalpa, Red, Waterford The soccer fields and walking paths at Catalpa Oaks. 193 48070 41 Catalpa Response to Q6: Our children play soccer with SOCCS at Catalpa Oaks. We love the field, and convenience to our home in Huntington Woods. Please continue to allow our children the opportunity to play soccer at this wonderful park! 194 48072 40 Catalpa I love that it is close to my home, my kid(s) can practice soccer there, the updated playground as well as clean/up to date bathroom facilities. I also enjoy running the .75 mile loop around all the fields while my child has soccer practice so I can get my exercise in at the same time! Additionally when club soccer games for DCFC South Oakland are scheduled there, the fields are much improved and again, the location and size can't be beat! Have more like them! If there are other lots of land that can have a perimeter walking/running path, the runner in me thanks you! Additional tennis courts near the Berkley area would be lovely. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 43 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 195 48371 63 Addison, Glen, Groveland, Orion Friendly, helpful work force. Safety, seeing the sheriffs patrolling the parks. Cleanliness. Fun activities. Being able to be in nature. Parks acting responsibly in protecting the natural environment, removing invasive species, and protecting the watersheds. Is there a way to create ribbons of green space as opposed to having islands of parks? Ribbons of green spaces allow a healthier environment for wildlife and vegetation than do islands of green spaces. Could at least some of the parks be incorporated into ribbons of green spaces throughout the county, even throughout the state? Is there a way to create ribbons of green space as opposed to having islands of parks? Ribbons of green spaces allow a healthier environment for wildlife and vegetation than do islands of green spaces. Could at least some of the parks be incorporated into ribbons of green spaces throughout the county, even throughout the state? Thank you for supporting the Oakland County Parks! :-) I think one reason why Oakland County is a wonderful place to live is because of the parks. The parks are affordable, clean, safe, healthy, non- judgemental places for everyone. People can help make themselves to be healthy and whole simply by exploring nature in a safe way. Oakland County Parks offer people that opportunity. People can find themselves in an Oakland County Park. 196 48073 48 Catalpa Use this park for soccer 197 48072 44 Catalpa, Red My child plays soccer with SOCS at these fields. Maintain (and improve) the fields. Keep the fields maintained. 198 48072 37 Catalpa, Red Soccer fields, walking paths, and playgrounds. Nothing comes to mind. Make sure all works have restrooms. I have young kids so having restrooms is key. It's hard to stay at a work fornlong without public restrooms. Response to Q5: My child soccer with plays SOCS. We like the fields at Catalpa Oaks and the Red Oaks soccer complex and hope they continue to stay in place. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 44 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 199 48072 36 Catalpa, Red Catalpa Oaks is great - my kids play soccer there! 200 48221 35 Catalpa Accessible bathrooms and great play areas Keep bathrooms open longer 201 48072 36 Catalpa, Red My kids play soccer with SOCS and love using both Catalpa Oaks and Red Oaks for games and practices! We live a few blocks away from Catalpa Oaks and use it all the time for soccer and just generally play time. Playgrounds are great, and we love having open space so close so that we can run around, play sports, etc! 202 48302 56 Catalpa Soccer facilities for youth soccer Doing good work there 203 48072 53 Catalpa, Glen, Independence, Lyon, Red, Waterford Opportunity to play sports and stay fit . Like the opportunity to play soccer in particular. Soccer fields need improvement Parking can sometimes be an issue , 204 48071 49 Addison, Independence, Red Running/walking trails. The addition of bathrooms and pickleball courts. I wish Oakland County had at least one indoor facility that would be open to all Oakland County residents for a fee that had indoor pickleball, basketball etc, to allow us to stay active in the winter. Perhaps two recreation centers one in southeast Oakland County and one in the northwest section. Response to Q4: I wish Oakland County had at least one indoor facility that would be open to all Oakland County residents for a fee that had indoor pickleball, basketball etc, to allow us to stay active in the winter. Perhaps two recreation centers are in southeast Oakland County and one in the northwest. Also would like to see more courts for pickleball and basketball. I think the draft master plan is on track for the existing parks. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 45 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 205 48072 39 Catalpa, Independence, Red, Waterford My child plays soccer for a nonprofit community based organization - dcfc south Oakland. We have a great need in the Berkley community for these facilities at catalpa oaks for our children and love having convenient access to these locations! We would love to see improvements and more field use at catalpa oaks! 206 48073 14 Catalpa The air Make the soccer feilds better Improve the soccer feild conditions 207 48076 34 Catalpa The soccer fields - my daughter plays soccer for DCFC-South Oakland Our community needs and wants soccer fields at catalpa and we would like to see more field improvements and use there. Continue to improve landscaping and accessability. 208 48072 40 Catalpa Both our kids play soccer at Catalpa Oaks, and the walking track & playground are great while they're at practice. Would be nice to have more shade though. 209 48067 39 Catalpa, Red Catalpa Oaks Response to Q3: 1. My daughter plays for a community, non profit club - Dcfc South Oakland, my son plans to join next fall. 2. This community and parent and children needs well Maintained and safe soccer fields at catalpa oaks 3. Continuous improvement and availability of soccer field use at catalpa oaks Response to Q4: All of the above! Plus more outdoor tracks (ie Burton Park great example) Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 46 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 210 48072 58 Catalpa, Red Love the soccer fields. Have seating for parents to watch games. N/A 211 48072 52 Catalpa My kid plays for a community, non profit club - Dcfc South Oakland. This area / community wants/ needs soccer fields at catalpa. I want to see more field improvements and field use at catalpa. 212 48072 35 Catalpa, Red Soccer fields Maintain the 7v7 field better at catalpa oaks. More soccer fields for practicing. 213 48070 49 Addison, Catalpa, Red Dog parks, soccer fields Maintain 214 48070 44 Catalpa, Independence, Red, Waterford soccer fields green spaces keep soccer fields As a whole, I would focus on programming, trails, and maintenance of pavilions. Response to Q5: My children play soccer for SOCS. I feel like Red Oaks Soccer Complex and Catalpa Oaks soccer fields are critical to this program. Soccer has grown exponentially in Oakland County and in the entire country and to discontinue any of the maintenance at those facilities, would be a terrible management decision. Also, Catalpa Oaks serves a community of varying socio economic statuses that benefit from the County Parks services. 215 48076 41 Catalpa Catalpa Oaks soccer fields Keep the soccer fields open and in good condition More soccer fields This area / community wants/ needs soccer fields at catalpa. We want to see more field improvements and field use at catalpa.. Thank you Keep and improve catalpa oaks soccer fields 216 48072 40 Catalpa Soccer fields! Our children play with the nonprofit soccer club DCFC and we love having the soccer complex right here in our community. Continued maintenance and improve of the soccer fields-grass irrigation, supporter seating, field lining, general maintenance Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 47 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 217 48072 47 Catalpa My boys are part of the nonprofit DCFC South Oakland soccer teams and we love training and playing on the fields. It’s really become our home away from home. Field improvements like seeding, lines, and general upkeep are greatly appreciated. We are in need of more soccer fields. As the sport has grown finding fields has become more and more difficult. 218 48085 46 Addison, Catalpa 219 48067 49 Catalpa, Independence, Orion, Red Soccer Fields Please upgrade the soccer fields at Catalpa. Please upgrade the soccer fields at catalpa. Have children playing for a community non profit soccer club. I order to continue this we need further soccer developments at catalpa. See above 220 48025 47 Catalpa The pavilion and soccer fields. My daughter plays for a non-profit soccer club and they use the fields for practice. Improve soccer field conditions and maintenance. Maybe even add a synthetic turf field or fields. Add lights to fields so they can be used more often in spring and fall. More frequent maintenance Thank you for providing recreational activities for local families! 221 48085 46 Addison, Catalpa Catalpa: soccer fields and hiking trail. Addison: campground and trails. Normandy Oaks: splash pad and green space. Response to Q3: Catalpa: My children play for the nonprofit DCFC youth soccer. Properly maintained fields are essential for games and practice. Please invest in maintenance and upgrades. Perhaps invest in field turf for some of the fields to extend the safety, playing season and year round access to the space. Addison Oaks: continue to support family programs for the campground. Activities have fallen off in recent years. This is what differentiates the park from other campgrounds. Response to Q4: Continue programs that encourage residents to select a county park over other options. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 48 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 222 48072 45 Catalpa Soccer fields Response to Q3: Both my children play soccer for a community-based club (DCFC South Oakland) and Catalpa Oaks is an imperative component in their training. The soccer fields are crucial to their well-being and provide opportunities for physical activity. Please keep the fields in place and continue to put resources toward improving and maintaining them! Response to Q4: Keep as much space open, available and maintained for local sports organizations to use. 223 48072 47 Catalpa Playground, soccer fields, clean bathrooms. It is great to see people of all ages being active and taking advantage of this beautiful park. My children play for a community nonprofit club DCFC South Oakland. This community needs more soccer fields, so we can practice and play without driving far. We would like to see more improvement and field use at Catalpa. 224 48072 43 Catalpa, Glen, Red Golfing at Glen Oaks and Red Oaks. My kids play soccer with DCFC/SOCS and ROFC, and we love the fields and amenities at Catalpa Oaks and Red Oaks. Catalpa Oaks is a vital soccer park as the options for big pitches/spaces/fields are lacking in the SE Oakland county area. Please continue to support soccer at Catalpa Oaks! I personally also love the walking/running path around the park. Keep golf at Red Oaks. Encourage walking at the Red Oaks nature center, or add walking paths to the soccer park, or allow walking on the paths thru the golf course. Support good, strong grass growth for the fields/pitches at Catalpa. Invest in the improvement and maintenance of the soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks! Keep them accessible and listen to constituents -- thanks for asking for feedback and I hope you are able to use it Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 49 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 225 48072 36 Addison, Catalpa, Groveland, Red The park and the soccer fields Keep maintaining the fields and areas where the kids can run and play Have more pavilion options to rent for birthday parties We pay a lot of money in Oakland county for parks and we would like to see them kept nice for the community 226 48070 39 Catalpa, Glen, Red Enjoy golfing at the various parks and for my children to be able to play soccer at Catalpa Oaks Continue to support local soccer organizations and provide facilities for the youth soccer activities. 227 48237 33 Catalpa, Red The lush green grass and ample room to run and play! Keep the soccer fields grass healthy. Keep the grass healthy. Please make sure the grass at Catalpa Oaks is maintained for soccer practices and games! 228 48072 54 Catalpa, Glen, Lyon, Red, Springfield Catalpa Oaks Update and improve the soccer fields Support local sports organizations for kids 229 48070 53 Catalpa Catalpa Oaks is our favorite park. My kids are involved in SOCS/DCFC. We have practice and games there. We also go there to kick the soccer ball around. Often I will walk the track during practice. More soccer fields More soccer fields 230 48237 52 Addison, Catalpa, Independence The green space 231 48072 40 Catalpa, Red Response to Q2: Soccer fields are great at catalpa oaks. Love the playground, pavilion and restrooms too. Red oaks trails & nature center are great 232 48070 47 Catalpa Soccer fields Improve soccer fields Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 50 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 233 48070 47 Catalpa Soccer fields Improve soccer fields My son is part of DCFC and it is so great that he has Catalpa to train please continue to improve the fields. This is so beneficial to the youth to have this park. Thank 234 48301 44 Catalpa, Red My 10 yo son plays for DCFC South Oakland soccer team. Use the fields frequently a Catalpa Oaks and they are crucial to his continued development as a soccer goalie. Please continue to maintain and improve your soccer fields around your parks, especially at the catalpa fields 235 48070 47 Catalpa, Red Catalpa soccer fields and Red Oaks Golf Course Keep the golf open 236 48025 46 Catalpa, Independence, Red We frequently visit Catalpa Oaks in conjunction with soccer events. I played soccer at these fields more than 20 years ago and was surprised to see the improvements made to the park when we began attending soccer events several years ago. I was very impressed with the playground and bathroom improvements. We are fortunate to have so many amazing parks within Oakland County. While many are located in northern Oakland County where there is more open space, I think it is important to maintain the smaller parks that are located in the more densely populated sourthern portion of the county. Response to Q5: My children play soccer for the community-based, non-profit club, DCFC-South Oakland. They often play and practice at the fields located at Catalpa Oaks. I understand that the plan is to re-purpose the baseball fields into basketball and pickle ball courts. It was noted that these fields are rarely used. I think this would add value to the parks. The soccer fields should remain and they are used by a number of teams, including adult soccer leagues. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 51 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 237 48072 Catalpa Soccer fields, Park & Pavillion facilities Maintain the fields for use for the SOCS soccer program. Widen the walking path and potentially add a rollerblading/bike lane in it. But also make the park more barrier-free for access and use for those with special needs. Add park features for larger kids or even a community splash pad similar to the one at Heritage Park in Farmington Hills. Continue landscaping and maintenance of the park to keep it clean, safe and welcoming to all. 238 48322 Catalpa Soccer fields Keep them maintained Keep open for community enjoyment #DCFCSOCS U17 Boys 239 48070 43 Catalpa Walking track 240 48073 52 Catalpa Soccer fields Keep the soccer fields 241 48067 41 Catalpa Soccer fields, playground, walking paths 1. Your kid plays for a community, non profit club - Dcfc South Oakland 2. ….This area / community wants/ needs soccer fields at catalpa…. 3. ….want to see more field improvements and field use at catalpa… Soccer field improvement and field use Bathrooms Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 52 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 242 48072 41 Catalpa, Independence, Red, Waterford Soccer fields Keep up the soccer fields Keep up the soccer fields My son plays soccer for a non-profit club team (DCFC) and the soccer fields are very important to our family. Especially CATALPA, as this is close to not only our home but many of the families who play for DCFC. Please keep and maintain the soccer fields at CATALPA 243 48336 52 Catalpa, Glen, Waterford Catalog Oaks park Tender the soccer fields I love the good job you do to the soccer fields. Keep it up 244 48072 45 Catalpa, Springfield Soccer fields. Bathrooms. Keep them available to us! Keep funding the parks. We are a SOCS family that uses the soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks. 245 48025 44 Catalpa Soccer facilities Continue to provide and create exceptional soccer fields. Please continue to provide the soccer fields. It is helping to create and build a truly community based soccer program that is unmatched 246 48030 36 Catalpa The trail and playing on the fields Improve the fields please No 247 48072 40 Catalpa The soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks Improve the conditions of fields at Catalpa oaks to avoid injuries Keep supporting local sports organizations Keep soccer fields available at Catalpa Oaks for DCFC and affiliates 248 48070 47 Catalpa, Red The soccer fields and playgrounds are our favorite parts of the parks. Response to Q6: Please continue to support outdoor play spaces and gather spaces for our community. Please commit to soccer fields, ball fields, playgrounds, and basketball courts. 249 48070 44 Addison, Catalpa, Red Soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks. More soccer fields and better upkeep of the fields Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 53 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 250 48073 47 Addison, Catalpa, Waterford Catalpa oaks My kids plays for a community, non profit club - Dcfc South Oakland This area & community wants/ needs soccer fields at catalpa…. We wantto see more field improvements and field use at catalpa… 251 48073 59 Catalpa Soccer fields Improve the quality of the fields Clean up the litter Catalpa Oaks needs to be redesigned. No 252 48307 42 Catalpa My kids play for a community non profit club Dcfc south Oakland This area need soccer fields at catalpa … We want to see more field improvement and field use at catalpa… 253 48025 45 Catalpa Our favorite part of Catalpa Oaks are the soccer fields. My children play for DCFC non profit soccer there. I have played for years Stay and Play adult soccer. (20 years). The kids play set is nice too. For the youngest kids to play. Please continue to improve and add more soccer fields. Keep grass safe and in nice condition. Add more soccer fields. Keep kid play structures up to date. Invest in catalpa oaks. 254 48070 14 Catalpa, Red Soccer fields Better grass better goals 255 48331 41 Catalpa, Glen Soccer fields Add .our and maintain them More opportunities for local soccer 256 48331 41 Catalpa Soccer Fields Soccer Fields Better soccer fields at Catalpa My son plays for a non-profit soccer club, DCFC, and we need more and adequate soccer fields to play locally Focus more on Catapla park soccer Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 54 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 257 48072 46 Catalpa, Red Response to Q2: My favorite parts of the parks are the greenspace dedicated to youth team sports, specifically soccer, with additional supporting resources such as playgrounds, pavilions and concessions that help make soccer games a complete family experience. Response to Q3: Continue to dedicate greenspace to team sports including soccer, particularly at Catalpa Oaks. There is a general shortage of quality soccer facilities in the area compared to the large number of youth soccer programs and thousands of kids playing soccer. While 2 of the fields at Catalpa Oaks were recently renovated and those renovations are appreciated, more improvements are needed. the renovated fields are not maintained correctly so the county is not maximizing its investment. The other fields need improvements and maintenance going forward. If the funds and staff aren't available to improve and maintain these necessary sports facilities the County should partner with willing sports organizations that do have and are willing to contribute the resources to improve the quality of the facilities. In addition to improvements and regular maintenance the fields also need to be managed (scheduled and rested) adequately to ensure they are in the best condition for their users. Local youth sports organizations have the expertise to partner with the County to support this. Response to Q4: There are not enough sports fields, mainly soccer fields in Southern Oakland County. There are many thousands of children in the area playing soccer for dozens of sports organizations and they are having to leave the county in some cases to find viable fields. Response to Q5: I am a parent of 3 children who play multiple sports. They play soccer for DCFC Youth South Oakland and South Oakland County Soccer (SOCS), a Community Non-Profit youth sports organization. Catalpa Oaks is a necessary home field for 1,300+ kids playing for this organization and the only facility of its kind with multiple large soccer fields in the area. Without the use of Catalpa Oaks the club likely wouldn't survive. There are plenty of baseball fields in the vicinity but nowhere near enough good soccer fields compared to the demand. Please partner with organizations like this who are offering to help improve and maintain this necessary community resource that is depended on by so many families to be able to play soccer. Continued improvement and use of Catalpa Oaks as a central soccer facility is critical. Response to Q6: At a minimum the current number and location of soccer fields must be maintained. We cannot afford to lose soccer fields to other uses. Ideally more soccer fields would be added as the largest and most played sport in the world continues to grow and that growth is felt in Oakland County. 258 48070 48 Catalpa, Red Catalpa Oaks is great for soccer and lacrosse. Please keep Catalpa Oaks open. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 55 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 259 48073 43 Catalpa I love the soccer fields at catalpa oaks. My kid plays for DCFC and these fields are super nice to have in the area. There are not enough soccer fields in our area so these are super helpful to have in our area. It would be really cool to remove the baseball fields at catalpa oak and put in more soccer fields. It would also be great if they could add a turf field so there would be less maintenance. I am partial but there is a great need for an indoor soccer complex in our area. I know this would be a big expense but with so many travel clubs in our area it could potentially be a nice money maker for the county and be a showplace for soccer games and tournaments in southeast Michigan. Catalpa oaks is a great park that we use on a regular basis for our family. It is a really nice park. Like I mentioned before, having a new indoor sports complex that could be used year round would be a dream for this area. With so many kids in year round travel sports this facility could be booked morning till night with all the travel clubs. Since ultimate closed there are not too many options for indoor facilities in our area aside from total sports and the Oakland university dome. With the weather in Michigan, this is something that is needed in our area. 260 48301 16 Catalpa Catalpa oaks Improve the grass on the fields Improve grass Many non-profit youth teams such as DCFC use these fields 261 48237 40 Addison, Catalpa, Red We visit Catalpa Oaks most often. My son is part of the DCFC travel soccer league, and he plays and practices there often. We love watching him play there. We also appreciate the path surrounding the park. We'd love to see improvements to the soccer fields. Open restrooms would be appreciated. Even accessible Porta potties. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 56 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 262 48072 47 Catalpa The proximity and how active they are. They are well maintained and a nice relief from the everyday urban environment. Love the kids who utilize the soccer fields Keep the soccer fields maintained as they support our kids and activities Keeping them available and please try and add additional fields as it seems hard at times to secure locations for our kids to play sports 263 48071 33 Catalpa, Red Soccer, nature, play structure continue to support and maintain the soccer fields located at Catalpa Oaks Park and red oak. Thank you! 264 48334 43 Catalpa, Glen, Red Red Oaks Parks has phenomenal soccer fields that my daughter socs team plays on. At Catalpa Parks, my daughters soccer team practices on these fields weekly and plays on the playground. I go play golf all summer at Glen Oaks Parks. Love the golf course! I believe all of your parks that I have been to are very well kept, the bathrooms work and are clean and they are a safe environment for my kid to play on or practice at. I believe my interaction with the system in place has been wonderful. No additional comments, other than to thank all of the parks and recreation team for maintaining such wonderful parks. None 265 48025 42 Catalpa Soccer fields offer chances to play a sport we like (whole family). I also appreciated the bathroom facility. Continue to upgrade the fields through maintenance, drainage plans, possibly re- sodding. 266 48073 48 Catalpa Availability of soccer fields for my son to play for the non profit DCFC South Oakland. Provide soccer field improvements and increase soccer field use at Catalpa Oaks. Continue to provide additional soccer fields for youth teams. Response to Q6: Increase the number and quality of the soccer fields for youth soccer. The sport is growing at a huge rate in the area and the children should have access to quality fields. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 57 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 267 48025 45 Catalpa, Red Playground equipment, public washroom amenities and soccer fields. Add splash pads Continue to promote and/or market the parks within local community groups. Maintain soccer fields as part of the park program, interest in youth soccer continues to grow and field access is a must. None None 268 48070 46 Catalpa Your kid plays for a community, non profit club - Dcfc South Oakland To see more soccer field improvements and field use at Catalpa. Our kids play for DCFC South Oakland club and this area needs soccer fields at Catalpa To see more soccer field improvements and field use at Catalpa. Our kids play for DCFC South Oakland club and this area needs soccer fields at Catalpa 269 48025 42 Catalpa The practice soccer fields are amazing. Our DCFC team practices there. The park is great. I do walk the track when the boys practice soccer for South Oakland DCFC. I would like the path to be paved. Also improvements to the soccer fields would be great Please keep the DCFC South Oakland boys there for practices. The field is so convenient for the Oakland county families Love the playscape there! 270 48025 41 Addison, Catalpa, Red Soccer fields for our kids to play on Keep them open for Public to use Don’t close any parks especially Catalpa Oaks and Red Oak 271 48070 43 Catalpa Awesome soccer fields, play ground and track Nothing they are great! Please keep the soccer fields. They are the nicest around here and we really enjoy them! Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 58 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 272 48072 44 Catalpa My kid plays for a community, non profit soccer club - DCFC South Oakland. This area/our club is in desperate need of high quality soccer fields like Catalpa Oaks. We love going to the park and seeing all the fields open, in great condition and being used! The playground and pavillion including rest rooms are very nice too. The fields at Catalpa Oaks seem to have turf and/or drainage issues every time we have visited. Please keep improving the drainage system and field conditions as we have seem many kids slip, fall, twist an ankle, etc because of subpar field conditions. Thank you. Keeping the parks clean with accessible, clean bathrooms would be fantastic. 273 48073 38 Catalpa, Red soccer fields continue to upkeep and improve 274 48386 32 I have not visited an Oakland County Park Response to Q4: Please add more play areas for children. It would be nice for each park to have something for kids of all ages. Hess Hathaway is an amazing park and I would love to see Oakland County replicate something similar. Also, I would like the website to list the different playgrounds (if there are any currently or in the future) under the Recreation tab. 275 48070 39 Catalpa My kid plays for a community non-profit club soccer team - DCFC - and we love when our practices and games are scheduled at Catalpa. It is convenient, has a lot of parking, safe, and provides fun for kids all ages. I also love the track around the park. I would love to see more soccer field use at Catalpa. My son's age group is not playing at Catalpa this season and we were all bummed. Would love to see field improvements and usage! We love Catalpa Oaks and hope to be using their soccer fields soon!! Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 59 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 276 48237 39 Catalpa The soccer fields with bathroom facilities nearby! Keep soccer fields available for DCFC south Oakland and SOCS 278 48070 52 Catalpa I like that my boys have soccer practice at Catalpa Oaks and I can exercise during the same time by walking the track Catalpa Oaks is great in that it provides a place for the South Oakland community to practice soccer Please keep Catalpa Oaks for soccer. There are a lot of kids from adjacent communities such as Huntington Woods, Oak Park, Berkeley, and Birmingham that play soccer at Catalpa Oaks Please keep Catalpa Oaks for soccer...it is very important to our community! 279 48071 40 Catalpa My kids play for a non profit soccer club dcfc and would like to see some field improvements Just keep them up to date as possible 280 48072 Catalpa Soccer fields - Watching my child play soccer for DCFC South Oakland Improve and maintain soccer fields 281 48072 43 Catalpa, Glen, Red Response to Q2: The team sport field space of these parks is its highest value, at Catalpa Oaks and otherwise, in the Southeast Oakland County. Response to Q3: Maintaining these parks as safe places for people of all ages to gather and play team sports (soccer, lacrosse, football, baseball, kickball, frisbee football, etc.) are vitally important. Ensuring the fields are free of divots and turf that is well established are essential to youth and adult exercise activities. Lighting would provide another level of service and safety for the users of the parks, allowing more people to use the space for their individual and group activities. Response to Q4: The Park System should recognize the unique needs of the various locales in which the park space is available, and work with local partners to determine the best use of space. Response to Q5: Catalpa Oaks is an essential fixture of the SE Oakland County as a team sport facility for soccer, lacrosse, and kickball. I have even seen traveling exhibition soccer teams train at the facility due to its open space and facilities. As part of the densely populated SE Oakland County, the area residents need open space to support the healthy activity in Southfield, Berkley, and Oak Park. The fields have been well maintained through partnership with local groups like SOCS/DCFC South Oakland, who bring the attention of thousands of residents to the park, who also promote a culture of good stewardship and community, and who actively work to promote the shared use of the park for all. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 60 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? #281 Response to Q6: Parking for Catalpa Oaks needs to be improved in connection with improvements to the Oakland County Health Department parking in order to improve accessibility for all. There is opportunity to expand the Park offerings as stated in the draft, and reduce costs through grounds improvements and reallocation. Baseball fields go unused, I am told, due to their lack of lighting. While lighting would improve the usage of all team sport fields, if lighting is not possible then baseball fields should be converted to the pitched field style that can be used for multiple other sports (soccer, lacrosse, football, yoga, etc.) that are not as restricted by this need. Concessions are not a sustainable model for a OCPR building, however food trucks are popular in the area and could be permitted to operate through permitted use of electrical power (no generators allowed due to noise, requiring licensed/rented use of power hookup). Any implementation of pickleball or tennis courts could include an opportunity to install a covering dome for indoor winter activity (as implemented near the Royal Oak High School. Paved and topped tennis areas degrade in winter, and are often unused when lighting is not provided. A dome would allow for rental space, and other revenue generation. 282 48025 49 Catalpa Soccer fields Work on soccer fields 283 48072 42 Catalpa, Red The soccer fields 284 48070 39 Addison, Catalpa, Red Soccer Fields Soccer fields Soccer fields 285 48072 42 Catalpa, Red Playing soccer on the fields at Catalpa Oak has been a meaningful park of my children's activities and to my family. The playground has been great and we enjoy having a place to sled. We've enjoyed the trails and picnic areas at Red Oaks. There are not many places in the suburbs to feel like we are in a nature. Keeping family/child oriented spaces for sports, playing, and being in nature would have the greatest impact. The Parklands of Floyd's Fork in Kentucky has been an amazing model for the balance of these. Preserving nature so it can be accessed from spaces without much opportunity to do so. 286 48073 48 Catalpa Soccer fields! Well-maintained soccer fields! Keep our sports fields well-maintained and accessible. Put the kids first. You’re doing great! Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 61 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 287 4873 57 Catalpa, Glen, Red The soccer fields at Catalpa Park, my daughter’s team practices there. Red Oaks Golf, my daughter’s high school team uses it as their home course. I also play there a lot. Nice, affordable course. Please continue to maintain the soccer fields as well as the golf course. Keeping all of the parks and golf courses is vital to our community. Thank you. 288 48237 38 Catalpa My son plays for a local soccer club (DCFC), being able to bring my other kids along at practice and have them walk the track with me or play on the playground is amazing. Other fields around do not have this kind of convenience. Keep improving the soccer fields Making sure there are adequate numbers of soccer fields available and having play structures for siblings in close proximity. 289 48067 51 Catalpa I love the track at catalpa oaks and we use the soccer fields We appreciate the well maintained soccer fields Maintain & expand the soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks 280 48220 16 Catalpa Close to home, safe environment, love the soccer fields and path to walk on. Response to Q3: More soccer fields would be great! Soccer is a growing in youth sports and in all the communities around Oakland county. There is not always room to practice at the parks. When walking the path at catalpa oaks, it would be great to see even more soccer fields and children participating in something healthy for their body in a safe environment. Response to Q4: Make the soccer fields top notch! Add more fields and make the parks a place where the community gathers to celebrate young athletes Response to Q5: My daughter has played sports for many clubs. We have found a home with DCFC and love training at catalpa oaks. It would be great to see more fields there. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 62 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 281 48070 49 Catalpa Catalpa Oaks has a great trail and soccer area Keep them clean Keep up the maintenance on the grass for soccer Have more community events at the parks 282 48067 51 Catalpa The soccer fields at catalpa oaks are integral to my daughter’s soccer team. Keep them dedicated to the sport of soccer which is growing in this community. We need safe places where kids can go and safely play and learn team sports and all the life skills that go we being on a team. 283 48071 50 Catalpa, Red My dog loves the dog run at red oaks, and my daughter plays for DCFC South Oakland, a not-for-profit soccer team at catalpa Oaks Catalpa Oaks definitely needs a facelift for soccer! Keeping children, active, moving their bodies, and involved in sports is very important especially in a time where 1/3 of our kids are obese. They need to have the proper fields (no holes, grass mowed) so that they can play! Make sure the fields at Catalpa Oaks are soccer ready!! Oakland County kids should be able to play sports with NO FIELD ISSUES! We support the parks every year by purchasing a pass. We enjoyed spending time at the park with her dog and utilizing the water park, too. 284 48328 65 Addison, Independence Response to Q2: I love the fact that you take care of natural resources while providing quality recreation options for people. Response to Q3: Hire the staff needed to maintain what you have -- don't expand unless there is a plan for maintaining new acquisitions. Response to Q4: Staff the parks adequately so that excellent quality can be maintained. Response to Q5: I'm concerned about the acquisition of new local parks. Oakland County Parks has always filled a need that local parks cannot, with larger open spaces and not duplicating local parks and recreation options/locations. To take over individual city parks seems illogical and unwise. Will you hire more staff to manage these parks? If not, the quality of service and management of the Oakland County Parks as well as the "new" parks will suffer. Oakland County Parks have always been leaders in excellent parks Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 63 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? #284 Response to Q5, continued: and customer service. I would hate to see that change with the addition of new local parks, unless adequate staff and resources are allocated to manage them. Have a plan before making changes! Response to Q6: The plan looks good. I reiterate about making sure adequate resources are available before acquiring new parks. I would think that allocating monies to make sure all the Oakland County Parks needs are taken care of FIRST before acquiring new parks, should be the priority. 285 48072 43 Catalpa, Red, Waterford Water parks Soccer fields Walking trails Soccer field improvements for local games and for DCFC. They are truly working hard to support our community and young athletes. Family friendly Soppier sports 286 48070 53 Catalpa, Independence Catalpa is a wonderful park for our soccer teams and also offers a great walking route and outdoor space to rent for events. Keep Catalpa a soccer park. There are so few quality place is south Oakland county for one of the most popular youth sports in the country. 287 48070 53 Catalpa Easy to park and practice, watch games, park and bathrooms and covered area! 288 48072 46 Catalpa, Glen, Red Please do what you can to improve the soccer conditions at Catalpa Oaks. My son plays for SOCS we had too go elsewhere when Catalpa is so convenient. 289 48070 40 Catalpa Soccer at Catalpa Oaks Please keep the soccer fields are Catalpa Oaks and prioritize their drainage and maintenance Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 64 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 290 48070 50 Catalpa Response to Q5: My daughter plays for a non profit/community soccer club dcfc 291 48070 47 Catalpa Convenient location for community, non- profit club soccer - DCFC south Oakland. This community needs convenient soccer field locations. There is very limited nearby locations for kids to play. We need to see overall field improvement. Fields were unusable for a significant amount of time due to issues and maintenance needed. Response to Q4: Would like to see better maintenance and more ability to use fields. What good are the fields if they are always shut down and the community can’t use them? So disappointing that we are constantly having to look elsewhere for our children to find fields they can actually practice on/use. 292 48025 46 Catalpa soccer fields please keep improving the soccer fields please keep the soccer fields my kids play for detroit city football club south oakland & our family values being able to use catalpa oaks park for our childrens activities. please keep the soccer fields thank you 293 48071 35 Catalpa The soccer fields Keep the soccer fields great! 294 48076 46 Catalpa Catalpa Oaks We would like to see adequate soccer fields. Like surface leveling is a must. DCFC South Oakland is an outstanding non profit soccer club ans parents are happy with the program. Further improvements are needed for the soccer fields. Address the soccer field quality. Traveling outside Michigan, we can tell the difference for a better maintained County Parks. We, Michigan, are still below other states standards on this aspect. There are volunteers in the community who will love to help in creating a better park, so the county shall reach out to community and use the free help that are at their disposal. Improve the soccer field conditions at Catalpa Oaks. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 65 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 295 48073 45 Catalpa, Red, Waterford My daughter plays soccer and having Catalpa Oaks so near for practice has been great as she plays for a not for profit club in the community. My children also enjoyed other county parks while at the Salvation Army’s summer day camp in Royal Oak. All the parks are and important part of our community. More investments in soccer fields is important as the sport continues to grow in popularity. Continue to invest and make upgrades. They all have unique features and should continue to be enhanced. 296 48067 46 Catalpa Response to Q2: Catalpa Oaks Park is a safe and welcoming place for kids to play at, families to gather at, and the community to enjoy as children learn, grow, and benefit from being involved in team competitive sports. Catalpa Oaks is our main park and we are there multiple times every week. My daughter is 11. She plays for DCFC South Oakland, a community, non profit soccer club. She loves her soccer club, her team & coaches, and this experience with club soccer has helped her be a more confident, active, and happy young lady. Response to Q3: We, the community, as parents and as people, want to see more field improvements and continued field use at Catalpa Oaks Park. Ensuring further improvements to community soccer fields, like Catalpa Oaks Park, secures a place for children of all ages to continue to have a safe and local outdoor practice and game location where they and their families can interact as a community. We ask that Catalpa Oaks Park be a priority for the 5 Year Plan that Oakland County Parks is planning. Please continue to to support soccer fields , enhanced use of fields for soccer, and improvements of the fields at Catalpa Oaks Park. Response to Q4: The surrounding area community wants and needs the soccer fields in all of our parks to be cared for properly and maintained so they continue to be a place that children can depend on. This is very true of our favorite park Catalpa Oaks Park! Response to Q5: Thank you kindly for your consideration and time. Response to Q6: We ask that Catalpa Oaks Park be a priority for the 5 Year Plan that Oakland County Parks is planning. Thank you!! 297 48072 48 Catalpa, Red Soccer feild Soccer field Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 66 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 298 48972 42 Catalpa The soccer fields, playground and walking track Keep up the soccer field better 299 48072 42 Catalpa, Red My child plays soccer with DCFC South Oakland, a community- based non-profit club. I appreciate the fields that are available at Catalpa Oaks. In a suburban area like ours there is a shortage of open spaces that are available and appropriate for soccer, like these. I’d like to see further field improvements and field use at Catalpa Oaks. This is the ideal place for our local clubs to play and be based from. 300 48072 40 Catalpa All 4 of our kids are involved in the DCFC/SOCS soccer program. It’s amazing to have the beautiful fields at catalpa oaks available to us and in our backyard (Berkley family). We also get good use of the pavilion, bathrooms and playground while at soccer games. We’d love to see continued use by our club here! Keep soccer as a primary use! Catalpa oaks is a beautiful park we’d love to continue to use for our children and their soccer program. 301 48982 41 Catalpa I love the field conditions, the amenities and the proximity to my home and community. I’d love to be able to have soccer practice at Catalpa Oaks. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 67 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 302 48302 45 Catalpa, Independence, Orion The soccer fields My kids have played soccer at catalpa for years and are a part of not for profit soccer club. Investment in the soccer fields ensures active and healthy kids in Oakland county. Continued investment and improvement in the soccer fields 303 48072 38 Catalpa, Red Catalpa Oaks Catalpa Oaks is great! Love the walking path. I walk while my kids play or are at practices there. It's a great place for soccer practices. Please keep maintaining the soccer and baseball fields. It's such a great location for these activities. This area needs soccer fields as there are very few in Berkley. 304 48073 42 Catalpa The vast amounts of soccer fields 305 48309 34 Orion Dog park at Orion oaks, the best! Orion oaks - dog agility area. Pave the parking lots. Love Oakland county parks. N/a 306 48070 45 Catalpa The soccer fields and cool new playground. My son plays for non profit DCFC soccer club and they use these fields. Continue to keep up the fields and make them available for organizations such as DCFC. Please keep/make soccer fields available at as many parks as possible. This is important for community engagement for kids through adults in a great team building sport that is accessible to all people who have a ball. 307 48070 51 Catalpa, Red Soccer fields Red oaks needs work done on the fields Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 68 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 308 48072 46 Catalpa The soccer fields, pavilion and rest rooms Keep adding upgrades each year. The outdoor space is great for the kids. Part of the South Oakland DCFC family 309 48069 17 I have not visited an Oakland County Park 310 48084 45 Catalpa Soccer and baseball fields Continue on maintaining the fields Encourage kids to play in the fields, arrange/ organize soccer tournaments My son plays soccer with SOCS 311 48220 39 Catalpa Catalpa oaks 312 48073 40 Catalpa The soccer fields and track Keep the parks 313 48072 41 Catalpa Soccer fields. My son plays for DCFC soccer team and we use these fields. Improve the soccer fields by adding drainage. 314 48009 45 Catalpa, Red, Waterford Catalpa Continue to maintain and improve Catalpa soccer fields. Our son plays DCFC soccer there and we also spend time there as a family. Please continue to support soccer fields at Catalpa. Please continue to support soccer fields at Catalpa. 315 48085 48 Catalpa Soccer fields Keep them open for play Keep them open for soccer play please! Such an important part of our community 316 48075 50 Catalpa, Red, Waterford Soccer, Water parks, playgrounds SOCS soccer Improve bathrooms Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 69 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 317 48072 38 Addison, Catalpa, Red Response to Q2: Trails for walking my dog or just alone. I like open fields for my kids to play soccer and I can fly my small drones Response to Q3: Unfortunately many dog walkers are failing to pick up after their dogs despite bags and garbage available. Enforcement of this rule is needed. Please do not ban dogs entirely, these dogs and owners still need the excercise. Response to Q4: Drones are becoming more popular and I would like more clear rules on the use of open spaces. Response to Q5: For future park plans I would ask to please stop making more sport fields. Yes they get used but it is only for part of the year and even then only during weekends and after hours. I walk catalpa oaks all the time and I see these big fields NOT being used all the time. Small forests with trails can be used all year long by any and all people for example. Playgrounds need to be bigger. Kids get bored with small ones quickly. Many parks are using natural elements like wood logs to create more play opportunities without spending a lot of money on the official equipment. The pricing to rent spaces is high. This is causing them to be not used or used without paying. It's cheaper for me to have my kids birthday party at an actual place with video games, go karts, or bouncy places than your shelters. I wanted to have a party at the catalpa oaks shelter but it was cheaper to have a video game truck pull right up to my house. 318 48220 44 Catalpa, Red Ample parking and soccer fields. Catalpa Oaks serves as a great home base for SOCS and Detroit City FC. 319 48072 33 Catalpa The soccer fields, play structure, and walking path at Catalpa oaks. 320 48072 36 Catalpa My son plays for a community non-profit soccer club (DCFC). Improve the soccer fields. The community wants and needs soccer fields at catalpa oaks. 321 48072 51 Catalpa, Red, Rose Soccer fields and walking path Nice bathrooms 322 48072 36 Catalpa, Red The soccer fields at catalpa oaks and the sledding hill in the winter Improve parking More playgrounds, stroller friendly paths, link the parks together with bike paths You’re doing great! 323 48073 44 Catalpa The soccer fields so my son can have practice! Maybe invest in a turf field for park but DEFINITELY keep soccer fields at Catalpa!!!! Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 70 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 324 48072 32 Addison, Catalpa, Red 325 48083 52 Catalpa Favorite part is the access to the soccer fields. I am a coach and having that green space to practice is awesome for the community 326 48237 41 Catalpa The Soccer Fields! My child plays soccer for DCFC South Oakland and we love going to the park to watch him play! We love the park as it is! No suggestions currently. No further comments. Keep the soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks! 327 48237 46 Catalpa Catalpa Oaks Response to Q5: My son plays for DCFC South Oakland at Catalpa Oaks. Bathrooms are always clean and the play structures are fun and safe. Have also utilized the pavilion, which was great. 328 48072 47 Catalpa Soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks More soccer fields. Open restrooms longer. Add soccer fields My son plays for DCFC and we love having fields close to home. 329 48070 44 Catalpa, Independence, Red Dog park Soccer fields Playgrounds Trails for walking More designated dog parks More trees and trails More cross country ski trails and rentals Please, keep catalpa oaks soccer fields supported and updated! It’s very important for kids playing soccer in the community 330 48067 54 Catalpa, Red Response to Q5: My daughter plays for DCFC South Oakland Soccer Club. The soccer fields are very important to us and the DCFC South Oakland community and would like to see improvements to the fields. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 71 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 331 48067 54 Addison, Catalpa, Independence, Orion, Red The quiet and tranquility. Also the recreational opportunities Please maintain the soccer fields at Catalpa Oak Park. My kids play at DCFC and love playing there. 332 48067 50 Catalpa Our daughter plays soccer for DCSF South Oakland soccer club. The soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks are very important to us and our daughter. 333 48067 50 Catalpa My son plays soccer. The location of the park the set up of the park and the walking track to exercise while he plays Keep the fields up this sport is a growing passion for kids. 334 48070 43 Catalpa, Red The open field and walking path Improve paths and potholes in grass 335 48220 44 Catalpa Catalpa Oaks Response to Q5: My children play soccer with SOCS and utilize the soccer fields @ Catalpa Oaks regularly. It’s wonderful to have such a well-maintained park that is always bustling with kids practicing soccer or having games. I’ve even seen adult groups doing the same and people playing lacrosse. It’s so nice to have a place that so many can come together and play organized sports at all of the available fields at Catalpa Oaks!! 336 48072 53 Catalpa My daughter plays soccer for DCFC and I love watching her at Catalpa Oaks. Continue to maintain soccer fields. Maybe pave the parking area? Nothing I can think of offhand. No. 337 48070 54 Catalpa Soccer fields for training / games for DCFC. End of year team events. Better regular grass cutting for soccer & baseball fields. To continue to develop the fields for the local soccer & baseball teams. 338 48085 73 Catalpa, Highland, Red Response to Q2: Catalpa has good seating under a shelter. Leo, the groundskeeper, does a wonderful job. He works hard and is proud of the park. The restrooms are clean and safe. The visitors have been friendly and the soccer fields are some of the best in the county. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 72 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 339 48323 43 Catalpa The open fields, track, accessibility More and better soccer fields. My son plays for the DCFC South Oakland affiliate program and used to have training at Catalpa Oaks, but had to move this year because there weren’t enough fields and the ones that were there weren’t in good enough condition for games. So our home field had/has to be elsewhere in Madison Heights. Paved parking area. Better maintained athletic fields. We love Catalpa Oaks, just wish for some simple improvements that would allow our team to go back there to practice. See previous comments. 340 48072 50 Catalpa Soccer fields! Nice restrooms and playground /pavilion area More soccer fields Better drainage Not sure My child plays soccer for DCFC south Oakland and there are not enough available fields for the teams in the area. This space is viral for that 341 48237 50 Catalpa, Groveland My son plays soccer for DCFC and we very much appreciate the fields at Catalpa Oaks. 342 48070 42 Catalpa, Red Response to Q2: Soccer fields Walking track Playground Restrooms that are open and clean Good parking Diverse group of people Response to Q3: Keep restrooms open/clean Keep up the maintenance. These fields are important to our community. We need more soccer fields and important to keep these maintained. Keeping them mowed and bathrooms open is very important for our kids to practice and siblings to play on the play structure and everyone to play together or have reunions/gatherings in the pavilion. It’s a great space that brings together a great cross section of people. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 73 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? #342 Response to Q4, continued: More soccer fields would be great! Seem to have a disproportionate amount of baseball fields… as plans are made for updates, great to make changes as our kids are enjoying the popularity of different sports. Keeping bathrooms clean and open is great for our community. Response to Q5: We appreciate the work to have great, safe gathering spaces in our communities. Thank you for investing in our communities in a way that is so positive for every age group and demographic 343 48237 39 Addison, Catalpa, Glen, Independence, Red, Waterford Enjoy all of them 344 48070 39 Catalpa Green grass for soccer! Continue to invest to allow soccer playing! Kids were suffering during Covid without sports and now can play again! Team sports are great for so many reasons, including reducing. Symptoms of adhd in some kids. Please prioritize the green space for soccer! My child plays for SOCS Please prioritize catalpa oaks green space. 345 48076 53 Catalpa soccer fields & walking path 346 48070 54 Catalpa Green space Evening lighting No 347 48335 38 Catalpa Nice soccer fields, beautiful park and family picnic area. 348 48070 40 Catalpa Great soccer fields, walking track and clean and open rest room Great covered sitting area by the playground- makes it appropriate for all ages. Keep them well maintained. Bathrooms clean and open. Fields mowed. Would be great to have more soccer fields! Kids play for SOCS and DCFC and our community could use more soccer fields. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 74 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 349 48069 40 Catalpa Soccer field, from a member of DCFC South Oakland 350 48237 40 Catalpa, Red Catalpa Oaks Soccer Fields (our children play for SOCS) and Catalpa Oaks) Running Path (our Youth Running Club uses it). Maintain the Soccer Fields 351 48072 50 Catalpa My child plays soccer with DCFC. We really need that park to be kept maintained for our kids to play soccer. Please continue to support and maintain the soccer fields. 352 48072 45 Catalpa, Independence, Red Bike trails, soccer fields Catalpa Oaks is one of our favorites. It’s close, has a lot of space, nice walking path and kids have enjoyed years of soccer there 353 48070 49 Catalpa Running path 354 48009 46 Catalpa, Red Soccer Fields Maintain fields New equipment, keep spaces clean Sports fields are vital resources for local kids that bring families to these parks. Please maintain and implement plans for improvements 355 48072 44 Catalpa The soccer fields and playground Improve drainage and cut the grass one more time per week on the soccer fields N/a N/a N/a 356 48072 44 Catalpa Soccer fields for SOCS and DCFC games and practices for my 4 kids Cut the grass on the fields an additional time each week 357 48304 55 Catalpa Response to Q2: My favorite parts of the park are the soccer fields that my daughter uses for soccer with DCFC Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 75 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 358 48070 41 Catalpa Please continue to support and maintain the soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks Park. My son loves being able to play there on the SOCS league. 359 48083 52 Catalpa Soccer fields & walking/running trail! More seating around soccer fields Catalpa Oaks is one of favorite parks! My daughter plays soccer with DCFC South Oakland here! 360 48073 51 Catalpa, Red My child has soccer training at Catalpa Oaks. It is a great park with nice fields, bathroom facilities, pavilion and walking path. Maintain and improve the soccer fields. 361 48462 39 Independence Ensure they remain parks; do NOT over build/plan infrastructure that takes away from being in nature. Bathroom facilities, parking, unadulterated woods, and natural water... stop there. Less paved and groomed trails. Leave it natural for hiking and such to the fullest extent possible. 362 48237 46 Catalpa, Red 363 48237 46 Catalpa, Red The soccer field(s)! 364 48301 45 Catalpa, Red The soccer fields Please keep grass cut on soccer fields and in good shape. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 76 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 365 48030 n/a Response to Q2: Nature, beauty, trees Response to Q3: '- Go pesticide free -- Increase pollinator programs and involve locals schools to learn about pollinators and why they are important Response to Q4: We would love some of the money you have form your grant and federal government for a park here in Hazel Park. We have a huge piece of land at Scout Park that could use more development and be a showpiece for this area of Oakland County which is so often overlooked Response to Q5: "American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for improving park and outdoor recreational spaces in areas of the county that were most negatively impacted by the pandemic. OCPR has committed another $5.2 million in funds to support the projects and partnerships outlined in the proposal, resulting in a total investment of over $20 million." It would be cool if you could allocate a million of that $20 to an area like Hazel Park who had record number of layoffs, and hardships during COVID average per capita income here is $27,000 and many on disability or other benefits. Response to Q6: I don't see anything in it about Hazel Park. Why so much focus on the wealthy areas of Oakland County when we pay taxes too? There's so many who could benefit from more nature here. Would love to see development of the natural areas we do have. You allocated money to Green Acres but what about Scout Park and the three other pockets parks we have east of I-75? Seems like a forgotten area as the southern most tip of Oakland County and closest one to Detroit? $50,00 for updated play equipment would be a tiny investment with huge payoffs. 366 48072 51 Catalpa, Waterford Please continue to provide soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks. We are a DCFC South Oakland family and appreciate the great fields so close to home. Also love the walking path. 367 48070 43 Catalpa Catalpa is a great park, large, walking trail, soccer fields, gathering areas, everything you love about a local park. My son, and many of his friends have practice there. The fields need to be maintained better, cut more often (or cut shorter). Response to Q4: I cannot say as a whole, but I know the community relies on the park system and everything they have to offer. Please do whatever it takes to keep them and keep them updated. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 77 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 368 48301 65 I have not visited an Oakland County Park None are near me. Develop a park in Bloomfield Township. We have NO parks. Develop a park in Bloomfield Township. We have NO parks. No mention of parks to be developed in Bloomfield Township. 369 48035 39 Red We love seeing nature displays indoors, take- home informational brochures, organized Informational nature Hikes, and attending education programs for our preschooler I would like to see more programs for the 4-6 age range at red oaks in particular as we really enjoy that facility and it’s educators I’ve not been to them all to add to this, but in general educating the next generation and teaching them to live in harmony with nature is always a great idea I would love to be able to subscribe to monthly nature center emails for red oaks to know what upcoming programs are available for registration 370 48070 40 Catalpa Response to Q2: Catalpa Oaks is our favorite park. My kids play soccer with DCFC South Oakland and we enjoy playing at this park. 371 48009 76 Catalpa Handicap accessibility for walkers, wheelchairs Trees Water Birds , ducks Good parking Keep up good natural planting & good maintenance Publicize benefits Present programs or marketing to libraries & schools Host / educational/special events for national days of celebration Thank you Splash pads are great & hills for sledding 372 48070 36 Catalpa, Red Response to Q5: We’d love the ongoing maintenance of soccer fields for our kids 373 48072 49 Catalpa, Holly Oaks ORV Park, Red I love the trails at Holly. I love the quiet of Red Oaks and the nature center there. I also love that RO is dog friendly. Catalpa is awesome for walking and soccer. Oh and Catalpa is our favorite place for sledding. They are all great for different reasons. If you paved the lot at Catalpa that would be great. Make sure you keep letting DCFC play at Catalpa. It's the best quality and location for this club since ROFC has all the fields immediately to the east. Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 78 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 374 48025 52 Addison, Catalpa, Independence Soccer fields My son plays for DCFC soccer and maintaining and improving the soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks is very important to us Maintain existing equipment 375 48085 48 Catalpa My child plays for a community non-profit club. I enjoy nice fields for my child to play soccer on. Make the soccer fields more available at Catalpa and safe for the kids to play on. Catalpa park is a big part of our community non-profit soccer organization DCFC. Please consider making improvements and allowing more games to played at Catalpa. Thank you. 376 48025 45 Catalpa Catalpa Oaks - As adults and children we love playing soccer here and using the playground equipment. It's especially great that they have nice bathroom facilities for use while playing! I was married at Glen Oaks and my brother was married at Addison Oaks. We love that Oakland County has such beautiful natural spaces for the enjoyment of residents. Sometimes the soccer fields aren't in the best condition. We LOVE soccer and would love to see more care of the fields. The bathrooms aren't always the cleanest but I'm still pleased just to have one! Make sure there are nice facilities at all parks. (I haven't been to all but appreciate the ones Please keep the soccer fields at Catalpa Oaks! Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 79 # Zip Code Age Q1. Parks Visited in the past 12 months? Q2. Favorite parts of the parks visited? Q3. What can we do to improve these parks? Q4. What can we do to improve the Oakland County Parks system as a whole? Q5. Any additional comments? Q6. Comments on the draft Recreation Plan 2023-2027? 377 48025 42 Catalpa, Independence, Red We love Catalpa Oaks! Our kids play soccer for a community, non- profit club - DCFC, and this is our preferred park for practice, tryouts and games. Plenty of parking, great bathrooms and kids playground for other siblings waiting for the practice to end. We would love to see additional field use at this park and field improvements for the kids to play safely. Additional soccer fields! Our kids youth sports rely on these parks (specifically Red Oaks and Catalpa Oaks) to run smoothly and allow all of our kids practice and game time. 378 48073 47 Catalpa 379 48076 41 Catalpa, Red My whole family loves, loves, loves the soccer fields and the playgrounds. Please keep the soccer fields and keep the playgrounds improved. Please allow the public restrooms to be opened sun up to sun down daily. Please put in more sports fields. 380 48070 50 Addison, Catalpa, Red Easy access good parking acceptable drainage big open spaces Improved drainage on soccer fields The ones we use now for SOCS are so good and appreciated really they could just use better drainage so games are not canceled for spring rain Thank you for maintaining our parks they and SOCS are a great reason to live In our community and worth the taxes Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 80 Text of Emailed Comments (4) Emailed Comment: 12/26/2022 I know I missed the window for providing feedback on the County Parks Master Plan. I did read all of it, and learned a lot about the parks that I haven't yet been to! The biggest thing that occurs to me as a prior cyclist and now trail runner and walker is the connectivity options between parks, whether they are city/township, county, or metropark, or state. I think the plan includes lots of those interconnections, and I've listed some here where I couldn't be sure they were included. I also think the opportunities with the SMART millage going county-wide are huge. Tie in with county SMART Catalpa Oaks Pave the parking lot on both sides, will look much more encouraging! Add sidewalk along Catalpa to encourage access (in addition to sidewalk loops in) Add sidewalk or at least loops into each end of park from San Quentin to encourage access Add sets of fitnes steps in parallel to the ring walk on the hill? Groveland Oaks Pedestrian/Bicycle Connectivity - Holly rec area Tie in with county SMART - take the bus to go camping? Independence Oaks Return path from Independence Oaks North down to the rest of Independence Oaks on the west side of the Clinton river Orion Oaks and Red Oaks have excellent connectivity from outside Waterford Oaks/Farmers Market Good plans! 5k route looks quite possible Farmers Market needs more consistent sidewalks to this location, such as on Watkins Lake and County Center (this may have been mentioned) Emailed Comment: 12/20/2022 (2 emails from separate households in Hazel Park) I am a resident of Hazel Park, in the southernmost tip of Oakland County, just west of I-75. I know that Oakland County is charged with making improvements to the areas most impacted by COVID through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and I wanted to voice some ideas that would cost very little of the $20 million allocated to our County. In this southernmost area of Hazel Park, we do not have a lot of green parks, nature trails, or waterparks like the other high-income areas where it seems much of the money is being directed. Average household income here is around $27,000. Many are veterans, or on disability or other benefits. We also have many younger people and young families Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 81 in the neighborhood. The kids, adults and elderly in the neighborhood would love to have some more nature to spend our time in. In fact, green spaces have a significant effect on children’s mental, physical and emotional health as evidenced by a growing body of research. See below. As well, the impacts of pesticides on human and animal health is now fully and well documented by the scientific community, in particular Roundup which is extremely bad for children’s developing brains. Many cities around the US are successfully going pesticide free including Grand Rapids. Our bees are too quickly dying out with the large amounts of pesticides and the lack of gardens. Pollinator gardens and programs provide beautiful, natural interest in our green spaces and parks, the opportunity for adults and children alike to work together to improve our environment and community. For that reason, I am making the following proposal to green space improvements in this area of Hazel Park to improve community well-being and mental health. You could have a high impact in this seemingly forgotten area of Hazel Park for very little investment. Requested: Funding to repair and/or replace outdated and/or unsafe playground equipment in Albert-Sylvester Park and expand play areas Funding for landscaping in Albert-Sylvester Park to create paths, pollinator gardens, play areas, and benches Move to commitment to pesticide free gardening County-wide like the city of Grand Rapids Commitment to pollinator program like Rochester, Michigan Funding for individual households to plant native pollinator friendly bushes and flowers – provide plants, plans and other I look forward to your feedback and would be interested in helping with next steps Emailed Comment: 11/17/2022 To whom it may concern The so called plan is NOT a plan. It is nice words for human beings to adhere to. A plan is illustrations of things proposed for the future. A plan is drawings of things to come. A plan is detail one can budget for and finance. Please provide a REAL plan we can review and comment on Telephone Comments (3) Call from Bloomfield Township: 11/27/2022 More outdoor and indoor pools in Oakland County Not everyone has the privilege to enjoy a pool at a private club Recommends looking at the pool at Highland Park, IL which is wonderful and has great fitness resources Call from Oxford Township: 11/27/2022 Every community should have an “Oaks” park Would especially like to see an “Oxford Oaks” established Recreation Plan Public Comment Report 82 Invest in Red Oaks Waterpark – it is a great park Add another waterpark to the county – two waterparks (Red and Waterford) are not enough for the county Call from West Bloomfield: 12/8/2022 Oakland County needs a park for seniors There is nowhere for seniors to meet and do the things they are interested in The senior complex where the caller lives has a bus that could take residents to the park Requested a meeting after the holidays with other residents and manager to discuss ideas and options Staff Comments (3) It is great to see so many trails being developed in our county. Please keep this up. However, as we have more housing in the county, the roads are becoming more dangerous for bicyclists and we need to keep them off of the busy streets. If a seperate path in Commerce Twp. could be made along Commerce Rd. from Union Lake Rd. to the Library at Carroll Lake Rd., that would be a big help. Also, along Union Lake Rd. from Wise Rd to Richardson Rd. so bicyclists can safely get to the wonderful trails we have. (Contact information provided) Oakland County has a large number of active retirees, so Pickleball courts, shuffle board lanes and Bouche ball lanes would be great additions to the County Parks. Florida has these setups and it’s great for gathering people and enjoying some fun and laughs! Please invest in trails connecting neighborhoods, schools and downtowns. We are attracting and retaining families, singles, and seniors, who crave a high quality of life that doesn't rely on driving. Downtowns should be the focus of our investment. Our towns have been the community hubs for Oakland County for 200 years. Nobody chooses where to live because of an industrial park or highway corridor. Other premier states and counties have trails and connective trailheads into town 2022 OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT (ARPA) PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 2 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION OAKLAND COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS PREPARED BY Thank you to the Oakland County staff, community stakeholders and Oakland County Parks visitors who generously shared their time and ideas with us. PREPARED FOR Gary R. McGillivray, Chairman J. David VanderVeen, Vice Chairman Ebony Bagley, Secretary Christine Long, Executive Committee Member Yolanda Charles, Commissioner Amanda Herzog, Commissioner Andrea LaFontaine, Commissioner Jim Nash, Commissioner Nancy L. Quarles, Commissioner Lance Stokes, Commissioner Chris Ward, Director, Oakland County Parks and Recreation Melissa Prowse, Manager, Parks & Recreation Planning & Community Services Jim Dunleavy, Interim Manager, Parks & Recreation Operations Michael J. Gingell Robert Hoffman Michael Spisz Karen Joliat Kristen Nelson Eileen T. Kowall Christine Long Philip J. Weipert Gwen Markham Angela Powekk Tom Kuhn Chuck Moss Marcia Gershenson William Miller Adam L. Kochenderfer Penny Luebs Yolanda Smith Charles Charlie Cavell David T. Woodward Gary R. McGillivray Janet Jackson TABLE OF CONTENTS PROJECT PURPOSE EXISTING CONDITIONS Catalpa Oaks Red Oaks Waterford Oaks PREVIOUS PLANNING EFFORTS Oak Park Southfield Keego Harbor Pontiac Waterford Township Hazel Park Madison Heights STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY PROPOSED PARK IMPROVEMENT CONCEPTS Catalpa Oaks Red Oaks Waterford Oaks COST ESTIMATE FOR IMPLEMENTATION 3 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING 5 6 9 13 17 23 PROJECT PURPOSE The Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission (OCPRC) is considering parks and recreation updates to most directly serve eight communities across the southeastern quadrant of the County. These eight communities are associated with three County parks: Waterford Oaks, Catalpa Oaks, and Red Oaks. To receive the Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (ARPA funding), Oakland County identified communities where households are disproportionately impacted by COVID-19 due to pre-existing health disparities (qualifying Census tracts). Catalpa Oaks, Red Oaks, and Waterford Oaks were selected for improvements because they service communities with low or moderate median income (AMI) or contain qualifying Census tracts (QCTs). Further, the Oakland County Park Equity Strategy establishes guidelines to create high-quality public spaces that support health and wellness in areas that have had less access than others to Oakland County parkland. Oakland County recognizes the historically uneven distribution of park land throughout the County, and acknowledges that “proximity and time are often the deciding factors” for whether people recreate outdoors or not. To address park access inequity, OCPRC is focusing efforts on the needs and wants of the following communities: • Pontiac • Keego Harbor • Waterford Township • Southfield • Oak Park • Royal Oak Township • Hazel Park • Madison Heights 4 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING Source: Oakland County, Michigan, SEMCOG, Esri, HERE, Garmin, USGS, EPA, NPS EXISTING AMENITIES EXISTING CONDITIONS Catalpa Oaks is a 24-acre park located within the City of Southfield at the intersection of Greenfield Rd. and Catalpa Dr. The park currently offers five soccer fields, two baseball diamonds, a sledding hill and play structures. There is a 0.6-mile aggregate trail loop that circles the park, providing a walking and running track. Parking is currently located along Catalpa Dr. with overflow parking at the Oakland County Health Center, directly adjacent to the park. CATALPA OAKS PARK • Soccer and baseball fields • Walking and running loop • Two universally accessible playscapes for 2-5 years old and 5+ years old • Pavilion and modern bathrooms • Sledding hill 5 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING Sledding Hill Legend Buildings Playscape Athletic Fields Trails Park Entrance N Catalpa Oaks - Existing ConditionsSouthfield, Michigan 2 3 4 Paved Sidewalks 1 23 4 1 EXISTING CONDITIONS RED OAKS PARK & GOLF COURSE • 1.3-mile paved trail at Friendship Woods • Waterpark • Dog park • 9-hole golf course • Youth soccer complex • Playscape 6 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING EXISTING AMENITIES Red Oaks - Existing ConditionsMadison Heights, Michigan 1 1 2 2 3 3 4 4 5 5 N Legend Buildings Playscape Athletic Fields Trails Park Entrance Water Park Cart Paths Located within the City of Madison Heights is Red Oaks County Park and neighboring Ambassador Park. The 163-acre Red Oaks complex offers visitors a 9-hole golf course (64 acres), a waterpark, a dog park, a youth soccer complex and playscape, the Red Oaks Nature Center, and hiking trails through Friendship Woods (37 acres). Ambassador Park is a Madison Heights municipal park adjacent to Red Oaks, containing an additional soccer field, walking path, tennis courts, and playscape. EXISTING CONDITIONS 7 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING WATERFORD OAKS PARK • Universally accessible Paradise Peninsula playscape • Tennis courts • Sand volleyball courts • Winter family sledding hill • Outdoor fitness equipment EXISTING AMENITIES Waterford Oaks, located within Waterford Township, is a 199-acre park that boasts a variety of recreation and natural amenities. Visitors can enjoy a waterpark, a BMX course, and sledding hill. More than 3 miles of trails weave throughout the park and surrounding wooded areas. Existing Water Facilities Legend Buildings Trails Park Entrance N Waterford Oaks - Existing ConditionsWaterford, Michigan 1 2 3 1 2 3 Volleyball Courts PREVIOUS PLANNING EFFORTS CATALPA OAKS PARK OAK PARK 8 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING The City of Oak Park is currently in the process of updating their Parks and Recreation Master Plan that is due to lapse at the end of 2022. The City of Oak Park’s website includes a link to this draft plan, however the link takes you to what appears to be a draft version of their most recent plan that was published in 2018. This is the plan that has been reviewed for this section. Community engagement efforts for this Plan included five community meetings in 2016 and 2017, a survey that could be taken online or in-person that was open for about two months from November 2017 to January 2018, a review period of the Plan in early 2018, and a final public hearing in February of 2018. Community responses that correlate to the scope of work identified by OCPR include, gathering spaces for parents near play equipment, picnic facilities, a splash pad, passive recreation areas, and trail additions to create a continuous pathway. An additional strategy identified in the Oak Park Plan states there is need for improved coordination between the City of Oak Park and neighboring municipalities, as well as coordination between the City of Oak Park and Oakland County Parks and Recreation. To better understand community parks and recreation needs, a review of the eight municipalities’ existing parks and recreation master plans is summarized in this plan. Serviced by Catalpa Oaks, Royal Oak Township is the only municipality without a published parks and recreation master plan available online. At the time of this writing, the City of Oak Park (serviced by Catalpa Oaks) is in the process of updating their master plan, so a draft has been reviewed. The City of Keego Harbor (serviced by Waterford Oaks) has not updated their parks and recreation master plan since 2015, but this document was reviewed. In total, seven parks and recreation master plans were compared to the scope of work identified by OCPRC for their associated park system. The City of Southfield recently updated and published their Parks and Recreation Master Plan in 2022. The Plan identifies eleven goals, some of which that align with the scope of work identified by OCPR, including: bridging gaps between the city’s non-motorized trail system; developing space for public events and gathering; preservation of native species and the removal of invasive species within natural areas as well as improving educational programming around natural resources within the community; and promoting health and wellness center. The Plan collected community feedback via survey as well as a two-day open house. Survey responses indicate that the most important parks improvements are walking paths, an indoor pool, a nature center, outdoor pool improvements, outdoor fitness equipment, and a splash pad. Additional improvements identified from the survey include a community dog park, roller skating infrastructure, outdoor movies, additional picnic shelters that can be rented, and more special events. A variety of improvements were identified by residents during the open house. The improvements that align with the scope of work identified by OCPR include walking and biking trails, improved natural areas, outdoor yoga and exercise classes, and the addition of a nature center. SOUTHFIELD PREVIOUS PLANNING EFFORTS RED OAKS PARK & GOLF COURSE The City of Hazel Park published their most recent Parks and Recreation Plan update in 2020. The Plan identified eight goals with multiple objectives for each. Objectives that correlate with the scope of work identified by OCPR include creating community gathering spaces, developing both passive and active recreation opportunities, increasing non-motorized transportation between parks, creating exercise areas within underutilized areas of existing parks, and restoring native and natural habitats as well as increasing community involvement in an effort to foster an appreciation for nature. To assemble this Plan, the City engaged residents via survey and a series of charette workshops. The survey was open for 45 days, was available online and in-person, and received 56 responses. Among other things, residents expressed a need for better walking and biking paths, an increase of aquatic programs and desire for more swimming locations, an increase in nature activities and education, and adult fitness opportunities. HAZEL PARK 9 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING The City of Madison Heights updated and published their most recent Parks and Recreation Master plan in 2021. The Madison Heights Parks and Recreation Department, along with assistance from their advisory board and a planning consultant, identified six goals for their parks system. Goals and objectives that overlap with the goals of OCPR include: incorporating passive recreation into the design and function of city facilities by providing trails, benches, and picnic facilities; identifying, managing, and protecting natural features and open spaces; and implementing the city’s proposed bike trailways study to prioritize construction, provide continuous routes with minimal gaps, and minimize the environmental impact of the trails system. Additionally, the City of Madison Heights identified the acquisition of land to expand their parks facilities and services. OCPR is currently exploring the opportunity to expand Red Oaks through a lease agreement to acquire and maintain Ambassador Park, which would create greater capacity for the Madison Heights Parks and Recreation Department to expand their services and facilities in other areas of the city. The Plan utilized two community engagement opportunities: an open house held in December of 2019 with approximately 20 resident participants and an online survey that received 439 responses. At the open house, residents participated in a budgeting activity, where they received $40 to invest in their parks system. Most of the hypothetical budget was invested in their community center, followed by new playgrounds, then adult outdoor fitness equipment, programming, and parks maintenance. Residents used 10% or less of their budget on a splash pad, active adult center, and their nature center. The survey indicated that the five most used amenities include running and walking trails (complete with restrooms), the nature center, picnic tables, and play structures. MADISON HEIGHTS PREVIOUS PLANNING EFFORTS WATERFORD OAKS PARK The City of Keego Harbor has not updated their Parks and Recreation Master Plan since 2015. This is the Plan that has been reviewed for this purpose. The strategies identified in the Plan relate to programming and events, administration and organization, park facilities, and green infrastructure. These strategies include objectives that align with the scope of work identified by OCPR, such as exercise equipment, wilding areas with an increase in tree planting and focus on wetlands, allocating open space for gathering, and developing a partnership with West Bloomfield School District to enhance the natural amenities and trails throughout adjacent parks. The Plan describes community engagement efforts, which included two public hearings and an in-person survey. The Plan stated that attendance was low at the public meetings, however the survey engaged 50 families. The survey results indicate that residents feel there is a need for more community events, as well as implementing a pop-up or regularly scheduled farmers market/ maker’s market. This aligns with the scope of work identified by OCPR for Waterford Oaks, as OCPR also indicates desire for more community gathering spaced and open space flexible to accommodate pop-up events, food truck parking, etc. The survey results also show that walking is a major form of recreation for residents, and improvements could be made to trails and the natural environment adjacent to trails. Further, the Keego Harbor survey indicated desire for a splash pad, which has been identified by OCPR as a desire for Waterford Oaks. KEEGO HARBOR 10 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING The City of Pontiac’s most recent Parks and Recreation Master Plan update intends to implement projects between 2021-2024. Much of their community engagement for this plan took place during 2018 across twelve community meetings, an open house meeting, and six months of community surveys, which received 345 responses. Through community engagement and research, Pontiac’s Parks and Recreation Master Plan update established five goals for maintenance and operations, park and facility development, partnership and funding, awareness and communication, and connectivity and accessibility. The goals include objectives related to improving connectivity within and between parks, identifying preferred parks for future winter recreation facilities, and selecting parks for dog run areas. The objectives also refer to the maintenance and improvements of existing green infrastructure, wetlands, mature trees, and wildlife habitats. Across all goals, the Plan strives to create programming that encourages “active and healthy lifestyles regardless of age and ability”, as well as offer barrier-free and age-friendly spaces including universally accessible playgrounds, courts, and fields. The Plan also includes an item for engaging more deeply with Oakland County Parks to provide services and programming within the city, which aligns with the scope of work of this project. PONTIAC PREVIOUS PLANNING EFFORTS WATERFORD OAKS PARK Waterford Township’s most recent Parks and Recreation Plan update was published in 2019. The bulk of their community engagement appears to be a community survey that collected 732 responses over seven weeks during 2018. Key takeaways from the survey are that walking paths and trails improvements/additions, outdoor fitness courts and fitness equipment, additional nature programs, and a splash pad are all desired by residents of Waterford Township. These improvements are also identified by OCPR as desires for Waterford Oaks. Through engagement, research, and the assistance of a consulting firm, the Waterford Oaks Planning Department came up with seven goals. Each of these seven goals had 2-5 objectives. A number of these objectives included improvements that were also identified by OCPR, including: implementing recreation opportunities with a focus on improving health and fitness, continuing the development of non-motorized pathways and park connections, maintaining, and improving public access to rivers within the township as well as preserving and protecting other natural features. WATERFORD TOWNSHIP 11 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY SUMMARY 12 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING Local stakeholders identified by Oakland County Parks were invited to attend a series of two focus group meetings to guide the park improvement plans. Across the three parks, nearly 30 stakeholders were invited to participate in the discussions. ASSEMBLY MEETING #1 Existing conditions maps for each of the parks were prepared and distributed to meeting attendees, in addition to a second map showing the proposed park improvements and potential uses. The discussions and outcomes of each meeting are described further on page 18. Taken together, the first focus group meeting engaged 26 stakeholders. MEETING #2 The second focus group meetings followed this structure: review the key takeaways from focus group meeting #1, present and discuss the survey data (pages 19-21), display the draft conceptual plans, and mark them up with changes proposed by the group. Taken together, the second focus group meeting engaged 17 stakeholders. The final conceptual plans, incorporating the feedback from these groups, are found on pages 22-24. PUBLIC SURVEY PERIOD: JULY 25 - AUGUST 5 See pages 19-21 for detailed summaries of the survey for each park. Pavilion and playscape at Catalpa Oaks Park. Paved walking path in Friendship Woods at Red Oaks Park. Universally-accessible Paradise Peninsula Playscape at Waterford Oaks Park. STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY 13 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING DATE: July 28, 2022 12 community stakeholders attended, representing Waterford, Waterford Township, Pontiac, Keego Harbor, and Centro Multicultural La Familia The dialogue about operating Waterford Oaks as a year-round recreation hub suggests that winter recreation activities could be implemented and improved. This includes an ice ribbon, sledding hill improvements, and seasonal concessions, such as hot chocolate and s’mores. Additional conversation conveyed that Waterford Oaks needs amenities that all users can enjoy and positions the park as a destination visitors will want to return to, or would be willing to travel more distance to visit. Further conversation touched on park logistics, specifically multi-lingual signage and improved connectivity for non-motorized transportation. Overall, the most popular park improvements with this group include the spray park, pickleball courts and soccer fields, flexible recreation space, year-round programming and uses, and disc golf. WATERFORD OAKS PARK FOCUS GROUP MEETING #1 DATE: July 21, 2022 10 community stakeholders attended, representing Hazel Park Recreation Board, the City of Hazel Park, the City of Madison Heights, and Lamphere High School The conversation centered on the group’s ideas and concerns with respect to converting the Red Oaks Golf Course into open park space. Converting the golf course into park space has endless potential for year-round programming and would add miles of off-road walking paths to a dense community that currently lacks a large community park. The group asked for more information about golf course visitation, operating costs, school program attendance, and showed interest in exploring what a dual-purpose golf course and park space could look like. The group was supportive of incorporating native plantings and pollinator gardens into Red Oaks, expanding parking for the sports complex and water park, and moving the dog park to an area with better drainage, shade, and connection to the potential walking paths. Representatives from the City of Madison Heights were interested in exploring an agreement with OCPR to lease Ambassador Park to the County and connecting Ambassador Park with the rest of Red Oaks. RED OAKS PARK & GOLF COURSE DATE: July 26, 2022 4 community stakeholders attended, representing City of Oak Park Parks and Recreation, Oak Park Recreation Board, and Berkley School District The group indicated that they would like to see Catalpa Oaks as a place where ages can find something to do and enjoy. There was conversation about maintaining the park as a fitness hub with the addition of exercise equipment and converting some sports fields to appeal to more audiences with other sports facilities. Increased park activation, through programming and shaded seating areas, were suggested to draw the community into the park and meet the demand for more outdoor gathering spaces. The design of Catalpa Oaks poses some visibility and accessibility issues because it is nearly completely surrounded by a berm. Addressing these barriers and increasing non-motorized connections to the park were also recommended. CATALPA OAKS PARK STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY • Received 154 responses • Top communities in which respondents live: • Royal Oak – 29 • Southfield* – 18 • Madison Heights* – 16 • Waterford* - 14 • Oak Park* – 7 • No responses received from Royal Oak Township* * indicates a focus community eligible for ARPA funds • The majority of respondents indicated that they visit Catalpa Oaks “A couple times a year” or “Rarely” (53.2%). Additionally, almost a quarter of the respondents (23.4%) indicated they have never visited Catalpa Oaks. OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS • Increased landscaping with additional trees and more native plantings • Playground improvements • Basketball and pickleball courts • Additional shade structures, electricity hook-ups, and added seating CATALPA OAKS PARKS SURVEY SUMMARY 14 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING PUBLIC SURVEY Community input is imperative to ensure equity and align recommendations with the needs of residents. For two weeks (July 25 – August 5), a public survey collected community feedback on the proposed amenities for each park. Each survey received responses from non-Oakland County residents, but their responses were not weighted in a different manner than Oakland County residents. Across all three parks, 2,438 survey responses were received and reviewed by the planning team. PARK IMPROVEMENT PRIORITY RANKING Spaces to relax and experience nature (hammocks and yoga platforms) Adult exercise equipment and group exercise areas Spaces to gather/ socialize/celebrate with plenty of informal seating areas 46 52 11 18 47 36 42 1513 3941 50 31 12 9 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 5 (strong support)4 3 2 1 (no support) STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY RED OAKS PARK SURVEY SUMMARY • Received 1,719 responses** • 794 responses from Madison Heights and Hazel Park residents • Top communities in which respondents live: • Madison Heights* (869) • Royal Oak (216) • Troy (70) • Ferndale (40) • Clawson (40) • Hazel Park* (39) • Berkley (31) * indicates a focus community eligible for ARPA funds • Over one-third of respondents have never visited the Red Oaks Golf Course (35.7%), a similar number (36.5%) visit the Golf Course at least monthly, and less than one-third (27.6%) visit rarely or a couple times per year. • Over one-third (33.1%) of respondents visit the Red Oaks Nature Center/Friendship Woods at least monthly. More (45.7%) visit rarely or a couple times per year, and 21% have never visited. OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS 15 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 5 (strong support)4 3 2 1 (no support)• More trees and natural areas • Nature trails • Native landscaping • Pollinator gardens • Accessibility • Splash pad • Disc golf • Neighborhood connections • Dog park improvements • Pickleball PARK IMPROVEMENT PRIORITY RANKING **Respondents were able to submit an unlimited number of survey submissions, which resulted in many duplicate responses showing low support for park improvements and parkland expansion at Red Oaks. Because of this, OCPR intends to conduct a random household survey within a 10-minute drive radius of Red Oaks to evaluate the local response to potentially convert the golf course into park space. New trails and more trail connections Play areas and sensory stations Adult exercise equipment and group exercise areas Spaces for picnicking, relaxing, and family/small group gatherings Incorporating additional parkland and expanding Red Oaks County Park 752 174 241 139 413 545 210 295 192 477 402 189 361 227 540 561 236 279 181 462 707 180 221 117 494 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY WATERFORD OAKS SURVEY SUMMARY 16 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING PARK IMPROVEMENT PRIORITY RANKING 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 5 (strong support)4 3 2 1 (no support)New trails and more trail connections Winter recreation hub, including a sledding/tubing hill and ice rink New water play feature such as a spray park or splash pad 110 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 5 (strong support)4 3 2 1 (no support) Spaces to relax and experience nature, including amenities such as hammocks and yoga platforms Spaces to gather/socialize/ celebrate with plenty of informal seating areas 301 104 29 21 343 111 65 22 24 340 90 67 34 34 207 107 77 118 56 201 126 145 64 29 • Received 565 responses • Top communities in which respondents live: • Waterford*, Waterford Township* (315) • Clarkston, Independence Township (37) • White Lake, White Lake Township (31) • Pontiac* (8) • Keego Harbor* (7) * indicates a focus community eligible for ARPA funds • Few (3.7%) have never visited Waterford Oaks. Over half (54%) of respondents visit at least a couple times per year, almost 20% visit at least monthly, and 22% visit at least weekly. OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS • More features at the waterpark • Pump track and skate park to coincide with the BMX track • Bathroom updates, more garbage cans • More native plant beds/pollinator meadows, no- mow sections, natural preservation • Fenced dog runs, fencing/safety gate at Paradise Peninsula playground • Appreciate the inclusive Paradise Peninsula playground, any improvements/new amenities should be accessible to all • Pickleball courts, disc golf course • More seating with umbrellas/shade, pavilion, concessions or food options • Better signage for trails and wayfinding • Make Waterford Oaks a place for winter activities again PROPOSED PARK IMPROVEMENT CONCEPTS 17 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING SLEDDING HILL SOUTH OAKLAND HEALTH CENTER WEEKEND ONLY PARKING (120 PARKING SPACES) ANGLED PARKING San Quentin AveAberdeen StGreenfield RdNTS PAVILION MAINTENANCE ROUTE EXISTING RESTROOM AND WATER OPEN EXERCISE AREA BIOSWALE (REMOVED 67 PARKING SPACES)POLLINATOR GARDEN PICKLEBALL COURT BASKETBALL COURT ACCESSIBLE EVENT / GATHERING PLAZA SEATING/ SHADE AREA PRIMARY PARKING (60 PARKING SPACES) NEW PARK SIGN NEW CONNEC- TIONS NEW CONNEC- TIONS NEW PATHWAY LEGEND ACCESS POINTS FROM THE NEIGHBORHOOD STREET PARKING Catalpa Drive CATALPA OAKS PARK The planning team designed and revised park concepts to accomplish several things: to visualize which unique features are possible for each space, to present the proposed improvements to the focus group attendees, and to assist in cost estimates to apply for ARPA funding. The following pages provide the final park design concepts, precedent images, and planning context. PROPOSED PARK IMPROVEMENT CONCEPTS 18 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING Top left: Pickleball court; vibrant basketball court with mural and courtside seating. Below: Examples of plazas that serve as accessible gathering and event spaces. Bottom left: Bioswale; structural seating elements. CATALPA OAKS PARK ELEMENTS The proposed park improvements will update the feel and amenities offered at Catalpa Oaks to better serve the surrounding communities on a daily basis. The new basketball court and pickleball court will activate the park daily during the warmer months, and the enhanced sledding hill will attract park users for winter activities. Additional seating and shade structures will encourage more passive use and regular visitation of the park. There is a variety of opportunities to utilize the accessible plaza for programming and events, particularly in collaboration with the neighboring South Oakland Health Center. This design concept also considers opportunities to phase in amenities over time, through grant funding and collaboration with other County Departments, such as a new park sign at the intersection of Catalpa Drive and Greenfield Road, and crosswalks to improve connections from the surrounding neighborhoods and support pedestrian safety. The reconfiguration of parking at Catalpa Oaks reclaims park space and adds trees and new green stormwater infrastructure (GSI). Further, the pollinator gardens and GSI provide potential for an environmental education component (interpretive signage or programming) at an otherwise modern sports park. OPEN PARK SPACE WATER PARK NATURE CENTER EXPANDED WATERPARK PARKING PARK ENTRANCE IMPROVEMENTS YOUTH SOCCER COMPLEX DOG PARK (3 RUNS) NEW PAVILION OUTDOOR-ACCESS RESTROOM FLEXIBLE SPACE NATIVE GARDEN NATIVE GARDEN NATURE-THEMED PLAY AREA HAMMOCK REST STOP SEATING / SHADE AREA SEATING / SHADE AREA LABYRINTH KIDS PLAY FEATURE BUILT INTO HILLS NEW PAVILION NTS PICKLEBALL COURTS E Thirteen Mile RdJohn R RoadI-75Dequindre RdHILLER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL LAMPHERE HIGH SCHOOL LAMPHERE PUBLIC SCHOOLS JOHN W. SIMONDS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL HILLER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL JOHN PAGE MIDDLE SCHOOL GREEN RESTROOM PARK OFFICE PARK ENTRANCE IMPROVEMENTS RESTROOM RAIN GARDEN LEGEND PROPOSED ACCESS POINTS FROM THE NEIGHBORHOOD EXPLORATION TRAIL FOCUS AREAS IMPROVED EXISTING AMENITIES ADDITIONAL GREEN SPACE EXISTING ACCESS POINTS FROM THE NEIGHBORHOOD EXISTING NEARBY SCHOOL EXISTING NEARBY BUS STOP PROPOSED PARK IMPROVEMENT CONCEPTS RED OAKS PARK & GOLF COURSE 19 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING PROPOSED PARK IMPROVEMENT CONCEPTS 20 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING Top row: Interpretive playscape and shady dog run. Center: Shade and seating area. Bottom row: Demonstration of golf course coverstions into open space with paths; hillside playscape. RED OAKS PARK ELEMENTS A majority of the proposed park improvements are contingent on the unique opportunity to convert the 9-hole Red Oaks Golf Course into open park space. OCPR proposes adding a number of direct access points from the neighborhood into the park, allowing nearby residents to traverse a portion of Madison Heights using completely non-motorized paths. Further, at least 4 schools nearby would have access to Red Oaks Park and its expanded amenities and programming. The proposed pavilion added to Friendship Woods would ideally be suitable for outdoor classroom activities. The park conversion also has an economic development component to it: creating an opportunity to draw more businesses to locate near the park compared to when it was a golf course, and supporting entrepreneurs through events like a farmer’s market, fall festivals, and other themed events. Also unique to Red Oaks is its proximity to SMART bus stops, an opportunity to connect other communities to this park via public transit. WAVE POOL VOLLEYBALL COURTS NATIVE GARDEN LEGEND MAINTENANCE ROAD NTS EXISTING TRAIL SYSTEM Scott Lake RoadLOOKOUT LODGE BMX COURSE ICE RINK/ICE RINK/ SPLASH PADSPLASH PAD BMX BUILDING NEWNEW PAVILIONPAVILION NEWNEW PAVILIONPAVILION PICKLEBALL PICKLEBALL COURTSCOURTS ENHANCED ENHANCED SLEEDING HILL SLEEDING HILL (SYNTHETIC (SYNTHETIC SURFACING)SURFACING) NEW TRIALNEW TRIAL EXISTING PARKING FLEXIBLE FLEXIBLE OPEN OPEN SPACESPACE ACCESSIBLE EVENT/ ACCESSIBLE EVENT/ GATHERING SPACEGATHERING SPACE PROPOSED PARK IMPROVEMENT CONCEPTS WATERFORD OAKS PARK 21 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING PROPOSED PARK IMPROVEMENT CONCEPTS 22 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING Top left: New trail extension, year- round synthetic sledding hill. Right: Rain garden; flexible, accessible event and gathering space with food truck parking; combination ice ribbon and splash pad. Bottom left: Pickleball courts. WATERFORD OAKS PARK ELEMENTS The proposed park improvements will reestablish Waterford Oaks as a winter destination and diversify its year-round offerings. An enhanced sledding hill with synthetic surfacing and combination ice rink and splash pad creates two distinct locations for winter-themed activities, hot drinks, and more. The dedicated bus lane for food truck parking near the Lookout Lodge doubles as an accessible event/gathering space. Pickleball courts are highly sought after in this part of Oakland County, and will likely attract new and recurrent park users to experience all that Waterford Oaks has to offer. Other park improvements relate to connectivity. Expanding the current trails system will expand the natural spaces available for visitors to explore. Adding a new non-motorized access point from Scott Lake Road creates a pathway for residents in the adjacent neighborhood to walk into the park, instead of driving. The maintenance road will provide operations vehicles with another route that avoids traffic congestion at the roundabout near Lookout Lodge. COST ESTIMATES FOR IMPLEMENTATION OHM Advisors developed the following high-level cost estimates for implementing the projects depicted in the conceptual plans for Catalpa Oaks, Red Oaks, and Waterford Oaks. These estimates are based on 2022 development costs, and do not include costs for the operation of any of the proposed new amenities. The consultant team assumes that these projects will be phased based on funding availability, and that Oakland County Parks will determine the priorities for initial implementation. 23 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING CATALPA OAKS PARK Focus communities: Oak Park & Southfield DESCRIPTION UNIT TOTAL UNIT PRICE COST NOTES (1) Basketball Court AL 1 $120,000.00 $120,000.00 No fencing included (1) Pickleball Court AL 1 $50,000.00 $50,000 Fencing included Park Entrances NW Connection SF 720 $5.00 $3,600.00 6’ Wd. Aggregate Path, 720 SF SE Connection SF 720 $5.00 $3,600.00 6’ Wd. Aggregate Path, 720 SF N Extended Path SF 5400 $5.00 $27,000.00 6’ Wd. Aggregate Path, 5400 SF Pollinator Garden AL 1 $50,000.00 $50,000 5700 SF Bioswale AL 1 $90,000.00 $90,000 Provided by OCP Open Exercise Area AL 1 $25,000.00 $25,000 Remove nets and turf improvements Accessible Event/Gathering Plaza Decorative Pavement SF 5200 $20.00 $104,000.00 Stamped concrete, 5200 SF Permeable Pavement SF 9400 $30.00 $282,000.00 Permeable concrete, 9400 SF Overhead Structure EA 2 $75,000.00 $150,000.00 Site Furnishings AL 1 $35,000.00 $35,000.00 Parkwide Site Furnishings Benches with pads and trash receptacle EA 12 $5,000.00 $60,000.00 Shade structure with seating AL 1 $75,000.00 $75,000.00 Interpark Connectivity Maintenance Route SF 3600 $5.00 $18,000.00 6’ Wd, Aggregate Path, 3600 SF Soccer Ped Route SF 2160 $10.00 $21,600.00 6’ Wd, Concrete Path, 2160 SF Park Sign EA 1 $15,000.00 $15,000.00 Parking Lot Improvements AL 1 $75,000.00 $75,000.00 Misc paving repair Landscaping and Beautification AL 1 $80,000.00 $80,000.00 Provided by OCP CONSTRUCTION TOTAL $1,284,800.00 Contingency (25%) $321,000 GRAND TOTAL $1,600,000.00 24 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING RED OAKS PARK & GOLF COURSE Focus communities: Hazel Park & Madison Heights DESCRIPTION UNIT TOTAL UNIT PRICE COST NOTES Pickleball Court EA 2 $50,000.00 $100,000 Fencing included Native Garden AL 1 $100,000.00 $100,000 Provided by OCP Turf Restoration AL 1 $950,000.00 $950,000 Provided by OCP Tree Planting AL 1 $90,000.00 $90,000 Provided by OCP Nature Center Site Furnishings Benches with pads and trash receptacle EA 13 $5,000.00 $65,000.00 Shade structure with seating AL 1 $100,000.00 $100,000.00 (1) Shelter $75000, site furnishing $15000 Open Flexible Area AL 1 78511.4 SF Golfcourse Site Furnishings Benches with pads and trash receptacle EA 35 $5,000.00 $175,000 Shade structure with seating AL 1 $170,000.00 $170,000 (2) Shade structures with seating Interpark Trail Golf Course Route SF 43200 $8.00 $345,600 6’ Wd. Asphalt Path, 43200 SF Golf Cart Path Removal SF 43200 $8.00 $345,600 6’ Wd. Asphalt Path, 43200 SF SE Route SF 32000 $8.00 $256,000 6’ Wd. Asphalt Path, 32000 SF Dog Park Fencing LF 1250 $100.00 $125,000 Turf Restoration AL 1 $50,000.00 $50,000 Walks AL 1 $35,000.00 $35,000 Misc Site Furnishings AL 3 $15,000.00 $45,000 Park Magnet Sites Outdoor-access Restroom AL 1 $150,000.00 $150,000 Hammock Stop AL 1 $25,000.00 $25,000 Kids Play Feature Built Into Hills AL 1 $200,000.00 $200,000 Pavilion EA 2 $75,000.00 $150,000 (2) Pavilions Nature-themed Play Area AL 1 $1,000,000.00 $1,000,000 Green Restroom AL 1 $100,000.00 $100,000 50000 for utility Continues on the following page COST ESTIMATES FOR IMPLEMENTATION 25 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING RED OAKS PARK & GOLF COURSE Focus communities: Hazel Park & Madison Heights DESCRIPTION UNIT TOTAL UNIT PRICE COST NOTES Extended Parking Lot SF 1 $500,000.00 $500,000 5000/parking space, 100 parking space, does not included lighting Labyrinth AL 1 $10,000.00 $10,000 CONSTRUCTION TOTAL $5,087,200.00 Contingency (25%) $1,272,000 GRAND TOTAL $6,400,000.00 COST ESTIMATES FOR IMPLEMENTATION COST ESTIMATES FOR IMPLEMENTATION 26 | 2022 ARPA PARKS IMPROVEMENT PLANNING WATERFORD OAKS PARK Focus communities: Keego Harbor, Pontiac, and Waterford Township DESCRIPTION UNIT TOTAL UNIT PRICE COST NOTES (2) Pickleball Court AL 1 $50,000.00 $50,000 Fencing included Native Garden AL 1 $20,000.00 $20,000 Provided by OCP Invasive Species Removal AL 1 $200,000.00 $200,000 Provided by OCP Parking Resurfacing AL 1 $600,000.00 $600,000 Aggregate Parking Open Flexible Area AL 1 $50,000.00 $50,000 Remove nets and turf improvements Accessible Event/Gathering Plaza Decorative Pavement SF 1300 $20.00 $26,000 Stamped concrete, 1300 SF Permeable Pavement SF 2900 $30.00 $87,000 Permeable concrete, 2900 SF Overhead Structure EA 2 $75,000.00 $150,000 Site Furnishings AL 1 $50,000.00 $50,000 Parkwide Site Furnishings Benches with pads and trash receptacle EA 30 $5,000.00 $150,000 Spaced 300’ O.C. Shade structure with seating EA 2 $75,000.00 $150,000 (2) Shade structure with seatings Interpark Trail S Route SF 3100 $5.00 $15,500 6’ Wd. Aggregate Path, 3100 SF E Route SF 2200 $5.00 $11,000 6’ Wd. Aggregate Path, 2200 SF N Route SF 4000 $5.00 $20,000 6’ Wd. Aggregate Path, 4000 SF Ice Rink/Splash Pad 1 $2,500,000.00 $2,500,000 Enhanced Sledding Hill SF 10000 $15.00 $150,000 Synthetic Surfacing Parking Lot Improvements AL 1 $50,000.00 $50,000.00 Mis paving repairs Landscaping and Beautification AL 1 $80,000.00 $80,000.00 Provided by OCP CONSTRUCTION TOTAL $4,359,500.00 Contingency (25%) $1,090,000 GRAND TOTAL $5,500,000 Oakland County Golf Survey Final Results ETC Institute (2022) Page 1 In Summer of 2022, Oakland County Parks and Recreation contracted with ETC Institute to conduct a survey of random households within a 15-minute drive of the Red Oaks Golf Course. The purpose of the survey was to gather responses from a statistically significant sample of people who live within the standard drive time of the park on a proposal to convert Red Oaks Golf Course into a public park. Q1. OCPR is considering a plan to convert the existing golf course located at Red Oaks County Park in Madison Heights to a public park with walking trails and improved dog park. Would you support this plan? Q1. Would you support OCPR's plan Number Percent Yes 318 72.3 % No 45 10.2 % Not provided 77 17.5 % Total 440 100.0 % WITHOUT NOT PROVIDED Q1. OCPR is considering a plan to convert the existing golf course located at Red Oaks County Park in Madison Heights to a public park with walking trails and improved dog park. Would you support this plan? (without "not provided") Q1. Would you support OCPR's plan Number Percent Yes 318 87.6 % No 45 12.4 % Total 363 100.0 % Q2. What is your age? Q2. Your age Number Percent 18-34 73 16.6 % 35-44 77 17.5 % 45-54 86 19.5 % 55-64 96 21.8 % 65+ 100 22.7 % Not provided 8 1.8 % Total 440 100.0 % WITHOUT NOT PROVIDED Q2. What is your age? (without "not provided") Q2. Your age Number Percent 18-34 73 16.9 % 35-44 77 17.8 % 45-54 86 19.9 % 55-64 96 22.2 % 65+ 100 23.1 % Total 432 100.0 % Oakland County Golf Survey Final Results ETC Institute (2022) Page 2 Q3. Which of the following best describes your race/ethnicity? Q3. Your race/ethnicity Number Percent Asian or Asian Indian 36 8.2 % Black or African American 58 13.2 % American Indian or Alaska Native 4 0.9 % White 324 73.6 % Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander 1 0.2 % Hispanic, Spanish, or Latino/a/x 24 5.5 % Other 8 1.8 % Total 455 Q3-7. Self-describe your race/ethnicity: Q3-7. Self-describe your race/ethnicity Number Percent Mixed 2 28.6 % Two races 1 14.3 % Multi-race 1 14.3 % Middle Eastern 1 14.3 % Jewish 1 14.3 % Scandinavian 1 14.3 % Total 7 100.0 % Q4. What is your gender? Q4. Your gender Number Percent Male 213 48.4 % Female 223 50.7 % Other 1 0.2 % Not provided 3 0.7 % Total 440 100.0 % WITHOUT NOT PROVIDED Q4. What is your gender? (without "not provided") Q4. Your gender Number Percent Male 213 48.7 % Female 223 51.0 % Other 1 0.2 % Total 437 100.0 % Q4-3. Self-describe your gender: Q4-3. Self-describe your gender Number Percent Non-Binary 2 100.0 % Total 2 100.0 % 5-Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2023-2027 January 17, 2023 Great Parks for Great People Background and Purpose SO MUCH MORE! •Mission, vision, core values •Our foundation to build an equitable and sustainable future for our organization, our parklands, and our communities •Guides staff and Parks Commission in providing recreational opportunities to Oakland County residents over next 5 years •Recreation Plan 2018-2022 expired December 31, 2022 •Eligibility requirement to apply for grants administered by DNR •Prepared per DNR guidelines Great Parks for Great People Strategic Action Plan - VISION Everyone in Oakland County has access to a park, public space, or recreational opportunity to relax, be active, socialize, and connect with nature. Great Parks for Great People Strategic Action Plan - MISSION We create and operate accessible, welcoming, and sustainable parks and public spaces, provide recreational programs and opportunities, preserve open space, and steward the environment to help all people be healthier and build resilient, connected communities in Oakland County. Great Parks for Great People Strategic Action Plan – CORE VALUES Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Health and Wellness Environmental Sustainability and Stewardship Fiscal Responsibility and Organizational Excellence Ground all actions and decisions in equity and justice and provide parks and recreation services that feel safe and welcoming to everyone. Plan, build, and operate our parks and services in a sustainable manner while collaborating with local communities. Care for the natural environment, preserve land and open space for future generations, meet current needs without compromising the future and build community resilience and adaptation to climate change. Implement our mission with a robust, innovative, and diverse parks and recreation organization and ground our decisions in sound fiscal policy. Increase access to the experiences and spaces that promote physical, mental, and social health for all. Great Parks for Great People Highlights – Healthy Communities Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan §BOC-approved allocation of $15M in ARPA funds for local investment in park and outdoor recreational spaces in areas impacted by COVID. §Projects identified in Catalpa, Lyon, Red and Waterford Oaks §Partnership park projects in Pontiac, Oak Park, Madison Heights and Southfield §Grants for park improvements in Hazel Park, Royal Oak Township, Pontiac, Oak Park, and Southfield Great Parks for Great People Highlights – Farmers Market Oakland County Farmer’s Market Modernization and Improvement Project §Federal earmark allocation of $2.4M from Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Bill submitted by Congresswoman Haley Stevens. Great Parks for Great People Highlights – Nature Preserves Designation of our highest quality natural parks as Nature Preserves with standards and protocols for management and access. §Highland Oaks §Rose Oaks Acquisition of 70-acre Turtle Woods property in Troy. Michigan Natural Features Trust Fund Grant to be submitted in April 2023. Healthy Communities project in Southfield to restore the former golf course at Beech Woods is expected to result in an OCPR Nature Preserve. Great Parks for Great People More Highlights Clubhouses and Conference Centers: Examine alternatives/ increase public use and fiscal sustainability of facilities. Waterparks: Evaluate condition and determine best level of future investment to meet public need and be sustainable. Water Access: Improve and expand access to natural bodies of water for recreation Great Parks for Great People Community Description §Oakland County §The Social Determinants of Health §Identification of Priority Equity Communities and Households §Community Data Tables Great Parks for Great People Administrative Structure §Parks Commission §Organization Chart §Funding Sources §Budgets §Volunteers §Partneships Great Parks for Great People Recreation Inventory §OCPR Park Inventory §Rec Programs and Services §Accessibility Assessment §Grant-Assisted Parks §Priority Investment Ranking §Service Strategies §Inventory of Regional and Community Parks Great Parks for Great People Natural Resources Inventory §Oakland County Natural Resources §Natural Resources Outreach §Natural Resources Zones Great Parks for Great People Planning Process §Planning Methods §Facility Planning and Development Great Parks for Great People Public and Community Engagement §Parks Commission Visioning §Community Needs Assessment (Appendix A) §Staff Strategic Action Plan Development §Healthy Communities Engagement (Appendix C) §Red Oaks Golf Course Survey (Appendix D) §30-Day Public Review Period (Appendix B) §Public Hearing Great Parks for Great People Individual Site Action Plans §Park Action Plans §Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan §Property Acquisition: Troy Schools Property