Rochester Hills Developing First Park in 20 Years

ROCHESTER HILLS, MI – Residents of Rochester Hills will get a look next week at what the new 130-acre Riverbend Park — the city’s first new park in two decades — might look like, as well as add their own ideas to the preliminary plan for its development.

A preliminary strategic plan and concept designs for the park, to be located on the north side of Hamlin Road between Crooks and Adams roads, will be presented at an open house from 4-6:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 25, at City Hall.

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Rochester Hills officials say the 130 acres of green space presents the city with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a regional attraction.

City staff has been working with residents, community representatives, and DesignTeam Plus to develop the concept designs. The designs include boardwalk trails, interactive water features, kinetic art and other unique facilities throughout the park.

“The community has come together to create a park concept that will be unlike anything we have ever had,” Mayor Bryan K. Barnett said in a news release. “As we move forward in this process, our team will be seeking additional funding and grants to help these plans come to life.”

The plan will also be presented during the City Council meeting on Jan. 25. Draft plans will be available online at www.rochesterhills.org. Those who are unable to attend the open house in person can e-mail mayorsoffice@rochesterhills.org for a copy of the plan.