Sterling Heights residents will soon see major “Recreating Recreation” improvements coming to Dodge Park, with construction to begin this month.
This August, Dodge Park will temporarily close to allow for the construction of a splash pad, ice rink, farmers market pavilion, new amphitheater, volleyball courts, turf mini soccer fields and other aesthetic improvements. Recreating Recreation is a $45 million parks and recreation millage approved by Sterling Heights voters last November.
On Aug. 14, work will begin on the west side of Dodge Park and the Dodge Park Pedestrian Bridge and the Volleyball Courts will close for the season. All other portions of Dodge Park will remain open for the month through the final Music in the Park concert. On Aug. 28, the remainder of the park will be closed to the public through the construction of the new amenities.
Sterling Heights Mayor Michael C. Taylor and City Council will take part in a ceremonial groundbreaking in Dodge Park at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 15. The public and media are invited to attend this significant event, marking the beginning of construction of a completely renovated park.
While the park is closed for improvements, events normally held in Dodge Park will be hosted on alternative sites. Starting August 31, the Dodge Park Farmers Market will move to the Senior Center parking lot for the remainder of its season. This year, Sterling Frights will be held on the City Center campus, as will A Sterling Christmas, said Parks & Recreation Director Kyle Langlois. Dodge Park is expected to re-open to the public in late spring/early summer 2018.
The administrative offices and programming space for the Parks and Recreation Department will be relocating from Dodge Park to Fillmore Elementary at 8655 Irving Road in August 2017. This move to temporary quarters is necessitated by the construction activity in Dodge Park as part of Recreating Recreation. Parks and Recreation will be returning to the City Center upon completion of the new Community Center.
Residents can learn more about Recreating Recreation and get project updates at www.sterling-heights.net/recreatingrecreation. Media with questions can contact Community Relations Director Bridget Kozlowski (586) 446-2471 or bkoz@sterling-heights.net.