Projects

Central Park Renovation 2023-2024

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Park scenes with walking paths, seating areas, and water.

SEE THE BEFORE AND AFTER
Comparative aerial views of Central Park renovations over time

CLICK HERE FOR INTERACTIVE PHOTO SLIDER

 

 

 

 

 

YOU MAY HAVE NOTICED, WE’VE “SOFT-OPENED”!!

We’ve had a huge challenge with rain this July and August, so please bear with us as we work with the grass!   We’re staying on it through the fall, but we’ve removed the caution barriers for more access into the park.

CANOERS AND KAYAKERS!

Also, there are TWO areas for canoers and kayakers.  The first one is ‘On the Point”, the peninsula at the entrance to Pettibone Creek, where most canoes and kayaks can land.  The other is on Pettibone Creek near the footbridge, which is for loading and unloading near the parking lot.  So, if you’re loading with a vehicle, that one is convenient.  If you’re paddling to the park via the Huron River, the peninsula is the place to land!  Have fun and enjoy the park!

LOOK FOR NEWS ABOUT A COMMUNITY-WIDE GRAND OPENING IN OCTOBER!!

 

Map of park with kayak access point and landing area

 

 

The Milford Township Board of Trustees is partnering with The Village of Milford’s Downtown Development Authority (DDA) to redevelop Milford’s Central Park. The partnership includes a $1.5 million contribution from the township to transform the park.

“We are so thrilled to have the support of Milford Township in this transformational project,” said Ann Barnette, Milford DDA Executive Director. “Their support of the project itself, combined with their significant contribution, make this a true partnership.”

“The Huron River is like a ribbon that joins the north and south of both the Township and the Village, and Central Park is like a bow on that ribbon.  We’re delighted to be part of this project,” said Randy Busick, Township Trustee.

The approved plan includes a new pedestrian boardwalk and viewing platform along the river, riparian plantings and stabilization of the riverbank, enhanced accessibility for canoes and kayaks, and a continuous accessible pathway around the park. The entry driveway and parking lot will be re-organized to better utilize open space and protect pedestrian zones.  The park will offer new amenities including an ice-skating rink, all-ages swings to view the river, outdoor fire features, gardens, significant tree plantings and sports courts.  A picnic pavilion, styled after the LaFontaine Family Amphitheater, will anchor the design.  Local favorites, such as the Amphitheater, the Playscape and the Veteran’s Memorial, will remain.

“The Township has been one of the biggest users of the park for more than 20 years, with annual concerts, community picnics and movie events,” said Township Clerk Holly Brandt, who books the pavilion and amphitheater for Township functions. “We don’t own a park.  This is what we use, and we should be helping to benefit the entire community.”

“I’ve been here most of my life,” said Cindy Dagenhardt, Township Treasurer. “I’ve never been more excited for our community.  This is something all of our residents will enjoy for decades to come.”

 

Marc Weinbaum, DDA Board:

“Thanks to this extraordinary effort and collaboration between the Village and the Township, Milford’s Crown Jewel is going to undergo a twenty first century transformation that will more accurately reflect upon the beauty and spirit of the very special community in which it is located.”

 

Financial contribution approved by Township Board, June 29, 2023

Approved by DDA Board, February 16,  2023

Approved by P&R Commission, March 1, 2023

Approved by Village Council, March 20, 2023

Approved by the Charter Township of Milford June 29, 2023

CLICK HERE FOR ANIMATION VIDEO