COMMUNITY PARK, RECREATION, OPEN SPACE and

Transcription

COMMUNITY PARK, RECREATION,
OPEN SPACE and GREENWAY PLAN
peop
le • ou
r
p
y
rit
rio
THE
CH
PLYMOUTH
AR
TE
R
OF
TOW
NS HIP
Charter Township of Plymouth 2010
Prepared by: James D. Anulewicz
Director of Public Services
Assisted by: Jana Pritchard
Mary Bruce
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Cover
Title Page
I.
INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................... 1
Recreational Open Space.......................................................................... 2
Protective Open Space .............................................................................. 2
Organizational Open Space....................................................................... 3
Summary ................................................................................................... 4
II.
COMMUNITY DESCRIPTION ................................................................... 5
III.
ADMINISTRATION AND MAINTENANCE................................................ 9
IV.
SKETCH OF THE TOWNSHIP
Topography & Drainage Ways................................................................. 14
Regional Location .................................................................................... 17
Wooded Areas ......................................................................................... 17
Road Corridors ........................................................................................ 18
Water Features ........................................................................................ 18
Soils ......................................................................................................... 19
V.
POPULATION AND HOUSING CHARACTERISTICS............................ 20
VI.
RECREATION INVENTORY
Regional Context ..................................................................................... 24
State Parks................................................................................. 25
Huron Clinton Metro Parks ......................................................... 33
Wayne County Park System....................................................... 40
Local Context........................................................................................... 42
School District ............................................................................ 42
Township School Sites ............................................................... 42
City School Sites ........................................................................ 46
Summary of School Sites ........................................................... 47
Plymouth Township Owned Lands
Township Sites Acquired/Developed Before 1992 ........ 48
Township Sites Acquired/Developed Since 1992.......... 51
Private Open Space within RUD or Cluster Developments ........ 52
Community Park, Recreation,
Open Space & Greenway Plan
i
Charter Township of Plymouth
Private/Public Owned Recreation Facilities ................................ 58
VII.
STANDARDS AND CRITERIA
Open Space Standards............................................................................ 61
Major and Minor Community Entries .......................................... 62
Major Thoroughfare Right-of-Way .............................................. 62
M-14 and I-275 Expressways ..................................................... 63
Woodlots .................................................................................... 63
Drainage Swales, Streams and Drains....................................... 63
Open Space along Thoroughfares ............................................. 64
Recreation Standards
Principles.................................................................................... 64
Type of Category of Recreation Area ......................................... 66
Play Area, Tot Lot, Mini-Park ........................................ 66
Playground.................................................................... 66
Neighborhood Park .................................................................... 68
Playfield...................................................................................... 69
Major Park .................................................................................. 69
Special Uses .............................................................................. 70
VIII.
PUBLIC INPUT PROCESS ..................................................................... 76
IX.
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES OF PLAN
Goals of the Recreation Plan ................................................................... 78
X.
GENERAL RECREATION LAND NEEDS VS. INVENTORY
General Recreation Needs Based on Type of Facility ............................. 80
General Recreation Needs vs. Inventory ................................................. 81
Gross Land Need ....................................................................... 82
Playfields .................................................................................... 84
Major Park .................................................................................. 84
Special Uses .............................................................................. 85
XI.
ANALYSIS AND RECOMMENDATIONS BY PLANNING UNITS
Unit 1 ....................................................................................................... 86
Unit 2 ....................................................................................................... 86
Unit 3 ....................................................................................................... 86
ii
Unit 4 ....................................................................................................... 86
Unit 5 ....................................................................................................... 87
Unit 6 ....................................................................................................... 87
Unit 7 ....................................................................................................... 87
Unit 8 ....................................................................................................... 88
Unit 9 ....................................................................................................... 89
Unit 10 ..................................................................................................... 89
Unit 11 ..................................................................................................... 89
Unit 12 ..................................................................................................... 90
Unit 13 ..................................................................................................... 90
Unit 14 ..................................................................................................... 90
Unit 15 ..................................................................................................... 90
Unit 16 ..................................................................................................... 91
Unit 17 ..................................................................................................... 91
Unit 18 ..................................................................................................... 91
Unit 19 ..................................................................................................... 92
Unit 20 ..................................................................................................... 92
Unit 21 ..................................................................................................... 92
Unit 22 ..................................................................................................... 93
Unit 23 ..................................................................................................... 94
Unit 24 ..................................................................................................... 94
Unit 25 ..................................................................................................... 94
Unit 26 ..................................................................................................... 94
Unit 27 ..................................................................................................... 94
Unit 28 ..................................................................................................... 95
Unit 29 ..................................................................................................... 95
Unit 30 ..................................................................................................... 95
Unit 31 ..................................................................................................... 95
Unit 32 ..................................................................................................... 95
Unit 33 ..................................................................................................... 95
Unit 34 ..................................................................................................... 95
Unit 35 ..................................................................................................... 96
Unit 36 ..................................................................................................... 96
Unit 37 ..................................................................................................... 96
iii
Unit 38 ..................................................................................................... 96
Unit 39 ..................................................................................................... 96
Unit 40 ..................................................................................................... 97
Unit 41 ..................................................................................................... 97
Unit 42 ..................................................................................................... 97
Unit 43 ..................................................................................................... 97
Unit 44 ..................................................................................................... 97
Unit 45 ..................................................................................................... 97
Unit 46 ..................................................................................................... 98
Unit 47 ..................................................................................................... 98
Unit 48 ..................................................................................................... 98
Unit 49 ..................................................................................................... 98
Unit 50 ..................................................................................................... 98
Unit 51 ..................................................................................................... 98
Unit 52 ..................................................................................................... 99
XII
PREVIOUS OBJECTIVES
IMPLEMENTATION AND RECOMMENDATIONS....................................... 99
1978 Objectives .................................................................................... 100
1986 Objectives .................................................................................... 105
1992 Objectives .................................................................................... 109
1999 Objectives .................................................................................... 111
2005 Objectives .................................................................................... 116
XIII
2010 IMPLEMENTATION & RECOMMENDATIONS............................ 122
Recommendations Related to Open Space
Open Space along Major Thoroughfares.......................................... 122
Open Space along Major Expressways............................................ 123
Open Space at Major or Minor Entries to the Community ................ 123
Recommendations Related to Administration and Maintenance
Department/Segment of Recreation ................................................. 124
Recommended Short Range Goals ....................................................... 124
Recommended Long Range Goals........................................................ 127
2010 Objectives ..................................................................................... 128
iv
LIST OF MAPS
Map 1
Key Water, Detention and Open Space Areas................... See Appendices
Map 2
Planning Unit Designation, Inventory and Recreation
Land Analysis ................................................................ See Appendices
Map 3
Regional Location of Plymouth Township ................................................ 16
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1
Parks and Recreation Budget .................................................................... 9
Table 2
Population by Age.................................................................................... 20
Table 3
Population by Race.................................................................................. 21
Table 4
Housing Units by Structure ...................................................................... 21
Table 5
Household Income................................................................................... 22
Table 6
Plymouth Township Recreation Standards .............................................. 71
Table 7
Facility Development Standards .............................................................. 72
Table 8
Population by Age.................................................................................... 80
Table 9
Recreation Needs Based on Population 1990, 2000, 2030 ..................... 81
Table 10 Recreation Needs Based on Population 1990, 2000, 2035 ..................... 81
Table 11 Needed Land for Playgrounds & Neighborhood Parks ............................ 82
Table 12 Playground and Neighborhood Parks ...................................................... 82
APPENDICES
Appendix A Map 1, Key Resource & Open Space Areas
Appendix B Map 2, Planning Unit Designation, Inventory & Recreation Analysis
EXHIBITS
Exhibit 1
Aerial View of Fiegel Elementary School ................................................ 7
Exhibit 2
Aerial View of Pioneer Middle School ..................................................... 8
Exhibit 3
Notice to Homeowner Associations..................................................... 135
Exhibit 4
Public Notice as Forwarded to Newspapers ....................................... 136
Exhibit 5
Public Notice as Published in the Plymouth Observer ........................ 137
Exhibit 6
Notice of Public Hearing as Forwarded to Newspapers ...................... 138
Exhibit 7
Notice of Public Hearing as Published in the Plymouth Observer ....... 139
v
Exhibit 8
Public Comments Received on the Plan
Certification Letter ............................................................................... 140
Letter from Homeowner Association ................................................... 141
Input from the Public Before & During the Public Hearing................... 142
Response to Letter from Homeowner Association .............................. 144
Exhibit 9
Transmittal Letter to Wayne County Parks Department ...................... 147
Exhibit 10 Transmittal Letter to Southeast Michigan Council
of Governments (SEMCOG) ............................................................... 148
vi
I.
INTRODUCTION
The Charter Township of Plymouth established a Recreation and Open
Space Plan for the community many years ago. The Township has continued
to progress in the area of overall Recreation and Open space Planning. The
2010 Community Park, Recreation, Open Space and Greenway Plan will
illustrate the progress that has been made by looking at the goals and
objectives that were established in 1978, 1986, 1992, 1999 and 2005. The
Plan will show what objectives were achieved and those that were dropped or
modified. The purpose of the 2010 Plan is to update the information and data,
conduct an analysis of the updated data and make sure that the Plan is
current and accurately defines the desires and needs of the community.
Probably the easiest way to define the need for a recreation and open space
plan is to compare the methodology with that used for planning a vacation. If
a vacation is anticipated, one must first determine the "destination"; where do
you want to go? The next essential item is to determine the "means of
transportation"; how do you wish to get to your destination? One must
evaluate cost, time, difficulty, etc. to arrive at the final determination.
The same process is necessary to ensure that the Community Park,
Recreation, Open Space and Greenway needs are appropriately addressed.
The first and foremost task at hand is to determine what the community wants
in the area of recreation and recreation programming. Each community will
differ based on the attitudes and social structure of the population. The next
item then is the detail. What action and/or steps must be carried out to
implement the goals and objectives? Without this framework in place, the
recreation needs and desires of the community are usually neglected or
totally ignored. This is particularly important within the content of the current
economic constraints that the Township, along with most other communities,
are facing.
This plan is based on a revisit of the 2005 plan.
The Objectives of the 2010 review of the 2005 Recreation and Open
Space Plan are:
1.
Determine if any of the variables used as a foundation of the Plan have
changed.
2.
Determine if the previous 2005 general goals and objectives for
recreation and recreation programming have been met. The 2010 plan
will create new objective, delete objectives that are no longer consistent
with the objectives of the community or modify the objectives as
necessary.
3.
Determine if the general goals and objectives for open space retention
1
and development for the community for both short term (5 years or less)
and long term (over 5 years) have been met and modify them as
necessary.
4.
Determine if the implementation or action plan is working effectively and
If not, determine what adjustments should be made?
5.
Measure the degree of adherence to the plan and make adjustments as
necessary.
In the preliminary comments of this document the term "open space" has
been used on numerous occasions. The term "Open Space" has been a vital
element of the Community Park, Recreation, Open Space and Greenway
plans for the township since its original inception. The Community, therefore,
determined early in the recreation planning for the community that the term
Open Space, must be defined. This and previous plans recognize that Open
space should serve several functions in a community. In general, the word
"open space" is often associated with recreation. This is certainly one of the
most obvious and essential functions of open space; however, open space
may, among numerous other things, serve two other important functions in a
community, those being protective and organizational functions.
Recreational Open Space
As previously mentioned, the most obvious function of an open space area is
outdoor recreation. Outdoor recreation can however take many different
physical forms dependent on the proposed use and the characteristics of the
land proposed to be utilized. Outdoor recreation can very simplistically be
broken down into two categories: Active and Passive. For the most part, we
are all familiar with open space used for active outdoor recreation. Baseball,
softball, soccer, swimming, hiking, boating, horseshoes, volleyball,
badminton, golf and frisbee are only a few of the active outdoor recreation
uses we are familiar with.
Less obvious and often overlooked is open space used for passive recreation;
that is the indirect enjoyment of open space itself. Passive recreation can be
best described as the simple pleasure of a view; sitting next to a small creek
during a hot summer day watching the different shapes formed and listening to
the various sounds of flowing water; the views one sees from their residence;
the view one sees as they sit at the ball diamonds of the Township Park looking
down over the man made pond; the view one sees as they ride along the
streets and highways of the community.
Protective Open Space
Open space can also serve various protective functions in a community. Too
often this aspect of open space is given little consideration in a developing or
2
redeveloping community.
Open space comprised of stands of deciduous and/or evergreen trees can
form an effective screen to reduce strong winds or blowing snow. It can be
used to buffer undesirable views and vistas, and can be an important factor in
air and water quality. Also, vacant or undeveloped land may contain natural
drainage swales which carry surface drainage from the land and ultimately
the community. These areas may be retained as open space thus reducing
the high costs which are usually encountered when drainage ways are filled in
and underground storm sewer systems are constructed. The open drainage
ways, if provided with adequate easements and developed in a manner which
protects the existing vegetation usually associated with these areas, can be a
positive visual element contrasting with the surrounding developed
environment, offer wildlife habitat, and play a key role in preserving and
enhancing water quality for the community and the entire river basin.
As a community grows and vacant and/or undeveloped land is developed or
properties are redeveloped for residential or business purposes, the amount
of rain water directly absorbed into the earth is decreased and the amount of
surface water runoff is increased. Open space can be provided and designed
in a manner which will preserve or enhance water quality and can be
designed to retain large quantities of water during peak rainfalls to prevent a
negative impact on downstream properties.
Organizational Open Space
Open space can give definition and a sense of order to the physical
environment. Used effectively, open space can act as a unifying element
giving continuity to the visual clutter so typical of many of today's
communities. The organizational qualities of open space can probably best
be described by an example. Kellogg Park in the City of Plymouth serves
various functions for the community; however, one of the most important
aspects of the park is the sense of identity, the sense of place that it creates
for the Plymouth community. This example should not give one the false
impression that open space need be large in area to be an effective tool in
the planning process.
The treatment and location of small areas of open space can be effective and
in fact essential to the organizational function of open space. Important to this
concept is the treatment of the road right-of-way along major thoroughfares,
that area of private development immediately adjacent to the road right-ofway of major thoroughfare roads and limited access expressways and entry
points into the community. Often the penetration of private open space out to
the right-of-way can break up the repetitive perspective of house after house.
A good example of this concept can be found in Plymouth Township at
Ridgewood Hills Subdivision #1 (Ann Arbor Road) and Westbriar Subdivision
3
#1 (McClumpha Road.)
Summary
A community is a dynamic entity which continues to reshape and reform itself
based on the dynamics of its population (numbers and profile), its economics,
its business community, its physical image, and its ability to be responsive to
its residents and businesses. The 2005 Recreation and Open Space Plan
must therefore be revisited. The 2010 plan will:
1.
Determine if any of the variables used as a foundation of the 2005 plan
have changed.
2.
Determine if the 2005 general goals and objectives for recreation and
recreation programming in the community for both short term (5 years or
less) and long term (over 5 years) have been met and modify them as
necessary.
3.
Determine if the 2005 general goals and objectives for open space
retention and development for the community for both short term (5 years
or less) and long term (over 5 years) have been met and modify them as
necessary.
4.
Measure the degree of completion.
5.
Determine if the implementation or action plan is working effectively and
If not, what adjustments should be made?
6.
Reaffirm delete goals which have not yet been achieved and establish
additional goals.
7.
Establish new and additional implementation tasks as necessary to carry
out goals.
4
II. COMMUNITY DESCRIPTION
Plymouth Township lies in the northwest section of Wayne County abutting
Washtenaw County on its western boundary. (See Map 3, Regional Location
of Plymouth Township.) The Township is less than one-half of a standard 36square mile township completely surrounding the City of Plymouth, and
bordered on the north by Northville Township, the east by the City of Livonia,
the south by the Charter Township of Canton, and the west by Salem
Township in Washtenaw County. Plymouth Township is typical of many
portions of the northwestern section of Wayne County in that the community
previously relied heavily on an economy based on agriculture and logging.
With the turn of the century, however, manufacturing began to make its
appearance in Plymouth Township and the community has gradually changed
to an economy based on business, industry, commerce, and a desirable
place to live. The community is located in a growth belt in Southeast Michigan
which over the past few years has experienced significant industrial and high
tech growth. The context of the physical environment of the Township and the
demands being placed on it are also changing. The once agriculturally based
community has steadily moved toward a suburban community and is faced
with the needs and demands for recreation and open space which are
associated with a suburban community. The thrust of the review is to update
the 2005 Recreation and Open Space Plan to recognize this ever changing
face of the Township and the economic times that the community must face.
This plan will stay within the parameters of the geographical boundaries of the
Township (less than one-half of a township) while recognizing the need to
work together with adjacent communities and in particular the School District.
Of particular interest is the number of school sites that exist within the
Township boundaries. As early as the 1986 Recreation and Open Space Plan
there was the call for coordination with the School District. This aspect could
be fostered with the Township providing technical assistance to the School
District in upgrading the environmental quality of school sites in Plymouth
Township. The School District has seven school sites within the Township;
two middle schools and five elementary schools. They are:
Middle Schools
1. Pioneer Middle School
19.29 Ac.
2. West Middle School
17.00 Ac.
Elementary Schools
1. Allen Elementary School
12.77 Ac.
2. Bird Elementary School
10.40 Ac.
3. Farrand Elementary School
10.06 Ac.
4. Fiegel Elementary School
8.97 Ac.
5
5. Isbister Elementary School
9.77 Ac.
During the period 1999 to present there has been an effort between the
schools and the Township regarding this matter. Later in this plan we will look
at specifically what has been completed and a plan to keep the cooperative
relationship that has been forged on an upward spiral. The scope of work is
simple. Currently we have some seven schools located within seven
neighborhoods in the Township. The goal is to get a better bang for the public
dollar. Instead of barren school sites located within our neighborhoods, we
want to create “neighborhood parks with schools on them”. A picture is worth
a thousand words. Please see exhibits 1 and 2 aerial views of Fiegel School
and Pioneer Middle School. The two sites are what one might expect to see if
these projects were new construction sites; building or buildings with no
definition of open space, activity areas, entry ways etc. So as not to offend
anyone we should quickly add that this is the norm in developing school
properties. The school tax dollars should be directed to the school's primary
function...the education of our future citizens and leaders. But if we work
together we can maximize tax payer's dollars and create a much better
positive environment which can be used throughout the day and evening. In
the Township most of the school sites sit at the center of residential
neighborhoods. They are, as the Recreation and Open Space Plan indicates
key open space areas for these residential neighborhoods. We can work
directly with the schools to first develop Master Plans that recognize the full
potential of each site. The current economic stress that both the Township
and the School district are facing will push this concept to the background.
Each Community and School District will be looking for new innovative
methods to run and finance school and government functions. In the long run
this cooperative agenda has the potential to produce benefits to both parties.
6
7
8
III. ADMINISTRATION AND MAINTENANCE
The 1969-70 budget years were the first time the Township budgeted monies
for parks and recreation. The budget amount dedicated to recreation has
increased over the years illustrating that recreation has taken on greater
significance in the Townships over all community plan. During this negative
economic downturn many communities have been required to cut back
funding. Recreation is usually one of the first categories to be impacted by
cuts and normally it can be the category that suffers the greatest loss. Table
1 below illustrates that recreation remains as a high priority. The 2010
adopted budget reserves the highest allocation of dollars from 2007 to 2010.
The highest dollar amount of $90,000 is for upkeep and upgrade of facilities.
TABLE 1
PLYMOUTH TOWNSHIP PARKS AND RECREATION BUDGET
Account
2007 Actual
2008 Actual
2009 Actual
2010 Adopted
Budget
705 Salary - Supervisory
56,177
57,204
68,691
32,000
706 Salary - Non-
35,518
22,384
41,575
11,414
708 Salary - Part-Time
31,854
49,418
36,960
59,400
1,443
3,624
116
1,502
15,678
6,935
1,529
16,000
12,926
10,967
6,587
4,922
715 Social Security
9,486
10,096
11,264
7,942
720 Worker's Com p.
1,836
2,036
2,813
2,300
727 Office Supplies
908
1,447
514
1,200
758 Laundry / Uniforms
420
113
0
500
801 Recreation Program
0
0
0
0
818 Contractual Services
11,937
17,502
7,778
12,000
853 Telephone
2,186
1,948
1,513
746
863 Auto Expense
8,444
13,396
8,403
10,500
921 Utilities
33,986
33,969
29,532
40,000
931 Grounds Maintenance
61,325
75,653
66,785
90,000
0
0
0
0
0
2,500
0
0
21
0
0
7,615
0
0
20,000
1,300
0
0
0
500
306,713
291,675
313,478
709 Overtime
714 Fringe Benefits
714.01 Pension - Non Rep.
970 Capital Outlay
973.05 Special Needs
973.06 Forestry
978 Equipment Purchases
979 Small Tools
999 Budget Amendment
TOTAL EXPENDITURES
286,624
9
Recreation programs for the Township residents have in the past been
supplied through the Plymouth-Canton Community School District and
other public and private associations. For example, summer parks day
camps were, in the past, run by two separate organizations: YMCA and the
Salvation Army. They utilized shelters 1 and 2 for the full summer, Monday
through Friday, from mid morning to around 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM. During
this period there was little use made of the park facilities. The day camps
were in many cases the sole users during this time frame. The investment
of time and money by the Township drastically changed this landscape.
With the introduction of the Playscape and the Sprayscape this area
changed from a very low use area to a high energy area used by mothers,
grandmothers, grandfathers, and their children and grandchildren. The
intensity of this area has seen the disappearance of the Salvation Army
and the YMCA day camps. The Township action produced an area that is
now often heavily used from opening to closing. The Township as part of
this plan must continue to evaluate how this area is used, evaluate the
intensity of use and determine what, if any physical or policy changes
should be made.
In 1973 Plymouth Township appointed a number of Board members to be
members of a committee representing Plymouth Township, the City of
Plymouth, Canton Township and the Plymouth Community School District.
The purpose of the committee was to establish a "Plymouth-Canton
Recreation Authority" consisting of the above mentioned communities and
the School District with the objective of establishing a comprehensive
recreation program for the communities involved. Difficulties arose, and a
final agreement was never reached. The nature of an authority approach is
filled with difficulties regarding different approaches to be taken, favored
concepts of substantial variance and different personalities. The spirit of
cooperation and potential benefit to the individual taxpayer required that
this approach be revisited. In 2004 informal discussion took place to begin
to lay the framework for determining any areas of mutual interest or
benefit. The Supervisor and Director of Public Services sat in on a number
of committees which represented the school districts, Canton Township,
and Plymouth to discuss areas of mutual concern regarding recreation.
The question of administration and maintenance of the parks has been an
evolutionary process. Until 1975 the maintenance of the Township owned
facilities were under the jurisdiction of the Township Water and Sewer
Department. As would be expected, the care and maintenance of the park
facilities were placed on a much lower priority than items directly involving
water and sewer in the Township. As a result, the care and maintenance of
the facilities and improvements to the parklands suffered.
In an attempt to give the parkland property priority, the responsibility for
overseeing the maintenance and improvements of the parks was placed
under the jurisdiction of the Department of Building and Code
10
Enforcement. Personnel to carry out the actual maintenance and
improvements to the park facilities were hired through the comprehensive
Employment and Training Act of 1974 which provided federal funding for
the personnel.
This approach placed additional pressures on the Building and Code
Enforcement Department during a time when the Township was
experiencing an increase in growth, therefore requiring a great deal of time
and effort on the part of this department. In most cases, the personnel
hired through the CETA funding had little, if any, experience or knowledge
required to carry out the improvement and maintenance projects related to
the parks without strict continual supervision. Substantial progress was
made with the Township's major park and the old Lake Pointe Park under
the direct supervision of the Chief Building Inspector; however, a
considerable amount of supervisory time was required of the Building
Inspector and a considerable amount of time was donated to the Township
by outside sources. The 1977, 1978 and 1986 Recreation Plan called for
elimination of this administrative structure for the maintenance and
overview of the park and recreation segment of the Township. Substantial
modification has been made in this area.
A separate department was established consisting of two full time year
round employees and three part-time (seasonal) employees. These
individuals’ sole responsibility was the overview and maintenance of the
Township recreation properties. A sound planning program for recreation is
keyed directly to establishing specific goals and implementation plans for
achieving the goals. This process allows for sound planning and the end
result is the elimination of inconsistencies in policy formulation. The
recreation and open space plan is only of value if the plan is reviewed
periodically to insure its implementation. Both short term and long range
realistic improvement plans are essential in the planning process. Without
such, an improvement plan may be handled in an as-need or demand
basis which may result in inconsistencies with the Master Plan and prove
to be in a long run detriment to the community as a whole.
In order to give further emphasis and reinforcement to the recreation area, the
department was placed under the Division of Public Services. The area of
recreation programming was evaluated. An extensive community evaluation
was conducted in May and June of 1998 and a good cross section of
individuals representing the community at large conducted a review of
program and capital outlays. In August of 1998, requests for a recreation
millage were defeated by the public at the polls. The issue of programming in
the eye of the public appears to be met by the various private groups. The
area of recreation programming continues to be monitored.
In 2004 the newly elected Supervisor indicated he wanted to make sure
recreation was appropriately dealt with. The Supervisor recognized the
11
evolutionary process that has been taking place in the area of recreation
maintenance and supervision of the parks. The new Supervisor recognized
the 1999 set up of a Parks Department under the overview of the Public
Services Division as a positive step in 1999 but felt that the next step in
this evolutionary process needed to take place. With the number of people
visiting our main park, with the addition of the Sprayscape, and the addition
of Lake Point Soccer Park, it was time to take the next step in this
evolutionary process. In order to keep stricter control of general
maintenance and oversee the interaction between park personal and the
general public the park personal where placed directly under the
immediate supervision of Mr. Thomas Hollis. Mr. Hollis reported directly to
the Supervisor. The two full time employees have recently retired. The
Treasurer of the Township has committed to overseeing the maintenance
and improvements at the parks and coordinating directly with the
Supervisor. In order to save money but increase productivity, the number
of seasonal workers was increase from 3 to11. At this time the Township is
working to maintain the integrity of the park system even with the severe
economic constraints the Township is facing.
The Township has run a reservation system for the pavilion and one park
shelter at the main park and one at the Soccer Park. The program is so
successful that those wishing to reserve one of the structures start lining
up before the DPS building is open on the first work day of the New Year.
By the end of January or February, all weekends have usually been
booked. The shelter nearest to the Sprayscape is now available for
reservation to address the current demand.
One of the goals of this plan should be to monitor the new process
put in place and look at the possibility of establishing a recreation
advisory committee. This committee would not have any power to make
changes or to expend money. They would report directly to the Township
Supervisor. Their sole responsibility would be to keep track of the pulse of
the recreation areas and bring back to the Supervisor suggestions for
improving or expanding recreation offerings to the residents.
In addition, the "Plymouth Township Park Rules and Regulations"
were last reviewed and approved by the Township Board in
November of 2005. This document should be reviewed by the
Township Board in 2010 or 2011 and revisions made to the document
and its content reaffirmed.
During the 2010 budget cycle the Township Board recognized the
economic constraints on the Township budget as a whole and particularly
in the area of recreation. The easy way out would have been to totally
disassemble the parks and the maintenance of the parks. Board members
however recognized the significance and importance of the two major
parks in the community. The two full time park staff retired. A
12
reorganization of the system was necessary. The Board as a whole
indicated that they were interested and dedicated to maintaining and
strengthening our existing park system.
In addition, the Township has continued to expand its efforts to enhance
recreation uses for the Township residents by joining with adjacent
communities to form recreation alliances. For example the Township
Supervisor is a member of the governing board for youth baseball. The
Board consists of representatives from Canton Township, Plymouth
Township and Plymouth Canton Schools. Youth soccer is a cooperative
effort between the City of Plymouth and Plymouth Township. The City of
Plymouth and Plymouth Township work with the Plymouth Community
Council on Aging to provide social and recreation activities to seniors of the
community.
13
IV. SKETCH OF THE TOWNSHIP
Plymouth Township lies in the northwest section of Wayne County abutting
Washtenaw County on its western boundary. (See Map 3 on page 16,
Regional Location of Plymouth Township) The Township is less than onehalf of a standard 36-square mile township completely surrounding the City
of Plymouth and bordered on the north by Northville Township, the east by
the City of Livonia, the south by the Charter Township of Canton, and the
west by Salem Township in Washtenaw County. Plymouth Township is
typical of many portions of the northwestern section of Wayne County in
the early 1970’s. At that time the communities along with Plymouth
Township consisted of primarily agricultural uses, with some developing
low density single family residential uses. Since that time substantial
growth has taken place so that little if any agricultural properties remain
and the community has seen significant industrial and high tech growth
along with continued residential growth. The context of the physical
environment of the Township and the demands being placed on it has also
changed. The once agriculturally based community has steadily moved
toward a suburban community and is faced with the needs and demands
for recreation and open space which are associated with a suburban
community.
Topography and Drainage Ways
In general, the topography of the Township is rolling. Map 1 illustrates that
the area east of Sheldon Road has a more or less uniform gradient toward
the southeast, with the most significant topographic changes taking place
in the area of the Rouge River. The only other area of significant
topographic change is the I-275 expressway which is depressed, for a
major portion, as it passes through the eastern segment of the Township.
The area west of Sheldon Road is characterized by distinctly rolling terrain
with more significant topographic changes occurring in some areas to
create excellent views and vistas.
The highest elevation above sea level is 890 feet and as would be
expected is located in the western portion of the Township. The lowest
elevation is 660 feet which is located near the eastern boundary of the
Township. The rolling topography of the Township has been one of the
important elements which have drawn people to choose it as a desirable
place to live. Further, the contrast between the higher elevations and the
lower swale areas as previously indicated, contributes greatly to the
existing image of the Township. Map 1 defines and identifies the significant
swale areas in the Township, thus reflecting the criteria established for
open space other than that dictated by recreation standards. This map is
intended to define significant areas so that future development plans
continue to be reviewed in light of these areas. Diligent efforts should be
made to continue to incorporate them into the approved development
14
plans and ensure that they remain part of any development. In addition,
those areas that have been preserved and incorporated into projects
should be maintained and enhanced.
15
16
Regional Location
It is further intended that this plan shall only be the first implementation step
for insuring that proper attention is given to these areas as significant open
space features of the Township. Just as a Master Plan establishes the broad
strokes of the community, it is the intention of this plan to establish the broad
areas and policies which should be considered for open space. The specific
form and shape of these areas will be decided when specific, more detailed
plans are submitted during the Site Plan, PUD and RUD process. The
Recreation and Open Space Plan is meant to notify all parties concerned that
it is the intention of the Township to maintain the general areas defined, and
insure that they are incorporated into the future development of the Township.
Further, those areas that have been incorporated into the development
process shall be maintained and protected so as to preserve and perpetuate
their existence.
Wooded Areas
In general, preserved woodlots in the Township consist of Maple, Elm, Oak
and Beech Trees with Dogwood, Red Bud and Hawthorn forming the
undergrowth. Some of the woodlot areas are associated with low lying swale
areas, giving these particular areas added significance. Maps 1 & 2 identify
these areas of "natural potential"; however, the scope of this plan does not
permit a more precise categorizing of the individual woodlot areas. The maps
are intended to define those areas which are of significance to the overall
image of the Township and which should be considered in more detail during
the Site Plan, PUD or RUD review process.
As stated in the goals and criteria section, it is the intent of this plan to be the
first step in meeting the recreation and open space needs of the Township
and to recommend further action programs for achieving these goals. Map 2,
as indicated, is a first step. It defines the specific woodlot areas which shall
be considered of importance to the Township in order to determine the proper
policies to adopt for a given woodlot area (preservation, limited development,
etc.).
A thorough analysis of each woodlot identified on Map 2 should be made
during the development process. For example, a woodlot containing large
Beech or Maple trees is of greater significance than a woodlot which consists
mainly of underbrush, etc. The reason for such a study is to determine the
appropriate treatment of each area. For example, a particular woodlot area
may be of such quality and significance to the overall community that
consideration for preserving the area is the most appropriate answer. Other
areas may be of such quality that the community wishes to note that
development under normal subdivision would negatively impact the area and
therefore consideration should be given to developing the property under one
of the various options available under the Township Zoning Ordinance. Care
17
should be taken to insure the protection of the wooded areas that have been
incorporated into existing developments. Without maintenance and oversight
of the incorporated wooded areas they will slowly but surely vanish from the
local environment.
Road Corridors
In 1975 the Plymouth Township segment of I-275, a limited access highway,
was completed and opened to traffic. I-275 is located near the eastern
boundary of the Township and runs from Joy Road (the southern boundary)
to Five Mile Road (the northern boundary). The M-14 limited access highway
was completed in 1978, and traverses the Township along the northern
portion extending the full width; from the eastern Township boundary to the
western Township boundary.
Map 1 identifies the key open space corridors along the expressways, major
thoroughfares and major and minor entry points into the community. These
areas are identified to alert all parties concerned that these areas are vital to
the image and organization of the Plymouth Community and that
development of these areas will be carefully considered in the planning
process and maintained. Again, the continued maintenance and preservation
of these areas is a key element. If the community is diligent in the definition
and incorporation process but does not stand steadfast in encouraging and
assisting property owners to maintain these defined areas they will be lost
along with the positive image of the community.
Water Features
Map 2 further depicts several small lakes, ponds, and the Rouge River in the
Township. The Rouge River has its origin in Oakland County and flows in a
southeasterly direction to the Detroit River. It is composed of two tributaries,
the middle and lower branches, which drains an area of about 440 square
miles. The middle branch of the Rouge River traverses the northeast corner
of Plymouth Township and it is this river valley that inspired the development
of the Middle Rouge Parkway, a regional park under the jurisdiction of Wayne
County. The park area will be discussed in more detail in the inventory
section of the plan; however, it should be noted that this area is certainly a
source of recreation for the residents of the Township and therefore dictates
that a close liaison should be formed with the County to ensure that the
Middle Rouge Parkway can be effectively utilized by Township residents as
well as other residents of the region.
In 1998 the Township became very active with its abutting neighbors and
other communities located within the Rouge River water shed basin. These
communities filed a volunteer permit with the State to deal with the quality of
storm water. The goal of the group was to review all aspects and
management policies which may impact storm water and ultimately the water
18
quality of the Rouge River. The permit application is made part of this plan to
illustrate the significance of the Rouge River system and the short and long
range steps that will be taken to address the issue of water quality and the
Rouge River. The Township was instrumental in working with the County and
other key municipalities to have legislation passed which will now permit the
communities to form an organization which can deal with clean water issues
in an effective, economically viable manner.
Phoenix, Wilcox, and Newburgh Lakes are located in the Township and are
part of the Middle Rouge complex. These three lakes have the potential of
offering particular recreation uses which would otherwise be difficult for the
Township to provide for its residents.
The projected uses associated with these lakes could have a substantial
impact on the Township; therefore, the Township should review these
particular areas and arrive at some policy guidelines for future
improvements of the facilities. This approach is not an attempt on the
part of the Township to usurp the power of the County in these matters.
This approach is intended to serve as informational data to be
presented to the County to insure that the County is aware of the
particular needs of one segment of the population intended to be served
by the parkway and the potential impact of their actions on the abutting
land uses of the Township.
Soils
The soils of the Township are varied as a result of the glacial action which
passed through Michigan during the glacial age. There are approximately five
soil types distributed throughout the Township consisting of sand, clay, muck,
loam and alluvium. The eastern one-half of the Township consists mainly of
loam and sandy soils while the western one-half of the Township consists
mainly of clay. The alluvium deposits follow the river and stream beds and are
found along the open drainage areas of the Township. The major deposits of
muck are found in sections 30, 19 and 20 of the Township.
It is recommended that at the time the Township is considering
purchasing of properties for a particular type of recreation area and use,
that a detailed analysis of the soil be made to insure that the soil
characteristics of the proposed site are suitable for the intended
recreation uses.
19
V. POPULATION AND HOUSING
CHARACTERISTICS
Although the Township leveled off due to the general trend of a reduction in
the size of the family between 1980 and 1990, the population once again
increased between 1990 and 2000. The Township population in 1980 was
23,028. The 1990 population showed a very slight change of approximately
620 people (2.69%) bringing it to 23,648. Table 2 illustrates that the 2000
Census showed a population of 27,798. The increase from 1990 to 2000 was
4,150 people representing a 17.5% increase for the time period. This reflects
the strong housing market during that time period and considerable new
housing construction in Plymouth Township. SEMCOG forecast for 2035
shows the Township population increasing slowing but remaining steady and
strong over the next 35 years. The forecasted increase is 2,117 over the 35
year period, an increase of approximately 8%. The following table breaks
down the population by age group
TABLE 2
POPULATION BY AGE
1990
Census
2000
Census
Age 0-4
1,433 (6%)
1,668 (6%)
2035
Forecast
SEMCOG
2,001 (6%)
Age 5-17
3,960 (17%)
4,627 (17%)
4,967 (17%)
Age 18-34
5,723 (24%)
5,305 (19%)
5,717 (19%)
Age 35-64
10,197 (43%)
12,778 (46%)
10,754 (36%)
Age 65+
2,335 (10%)
3,420 (12%)
6,476 (22%)
Age Group
Total
23,648
27,798
29,915
In the 2000 census 23% of the population falls in the age group 17 years or
younger. The SEMCOG forecast calls for this group to remain a viable
group that will continue to place demands on the recreation base of the
community. The largest population group change in the 2000 census
was age group 18-34. This age group declined by 5% with the age group
35-64 increasing 3% and the age group 65+ increasing 2% representing
12% in 2000. This trend continues and increases with the SEMCOG forecast
for 2035. The age group 65+ goes from 10% of the population in 1990 to 12%
in 2000 and under the SEMCOG forecast this group goes to 22% an increase
from 1990 of some 4,141 persons.
The table below depicts the 1990 census and 2000 census racial makeup of
the Township.
20
TABLE 3
POPULATION BY RACE
Race
White
Black
American Indian
Asian
Pacific Islander
Other Race
Multi-Racial
Total Population
1990 Census
22,862 (97%)
286 (1%)
2000 Census
25,680 (92%)
822 (3%)
58 (0%)
76 (0%)
384 (2%)
759 (3%)
4 (0%)
4 (0%)
54 (0%)
n/a
110 (0%)
347 (1%)
23,648
27,798
Housing types provided within the Township consists of conventional single
family detached homes, rental apartments, condominium units and mobile
home units. With over a third of the total Township land area developed as
residential, a broad variety of housing alternatives are found in the Township,
including:







Older, wood-frame housing;
Newer, brick-faced houses conventional single family neighborhoods;
Large lot single family development;
Smaller lot single family development;
Cluster single family detached development;
Multiple family housing of various densities and types; and
Mobile home development.
TABLE 4
HOUSING UNITS BY STRUCTURE
1990
2000
Structure Type
Census
Census
One Unit Detached
6,255 (68%)
7,529 (69%)
One Unit Attached
617 (7%)
893
(8%)
Two-Family / Duplex
31 (0%)
47
(0%)
Multi-Unit Apartments
1,635 (18%)
1,758 (16%)
Mobile Homes
599 (7%)
758
(7%)
Other Units
74 (1%)
0
(0%)
Totals
9,211
11,043* (10,985)
Source: U.S. Census Bureau. * The 100% count of 2000 total housing
units shown here may not equal the sum of the 2000 sample data.
21
Generally, the residential stock in most of the neighborhoods in the Township
is in very good condition. Most of the housing stock is less than thirty years of
age. This is the age when substantial repairs are often required.
TABLE 5
HOUSE HOLD INCOME
Less than $10,000
1990
Census
307 (3%)
2000
Census
173 (2%)
$10,000 to $24,999
1,305 (15%)
1,031 (10%)
$25,000 to $34,999
978 (11%)
1,056 (10%)
$35,000 to $49,999
1,408 (16%)
1,145 (11%)
$50,000 to $74,999
$75,000 to $99,999
2,067 (23%)
1,583 (18%)
1,958 (18%)
1,739 (16%)
$100,000 to $149,999
$150,000 or more
826 (9%)
377 (4%)
2,036 (19%)
1,541 (14%)
Income Categories
Total Households*
8,815
10,757
The 100% count of total households shown here may not equal the sum
of the sample data.
HOUSEHOLD INCOME
1990 Census
2000 Census
25%
20%
15%
10%
5%
0%
Less than
$10,000
$10,000 to
$24,999
$25,000 to
$34,999
$35,000 to
$49,999
$50,000 to
$74,999
$75,000 to $100,000 to $150,000 or
$99,999
$149,999
more
The percent of households with an income of less than $10,000
has remained the same since 1990, despite a reduction of
approximately 134 households. The income groups $10,000 to
$99,000 fluctuated a few percentage points either up or down.
22
The range $100,000 to $150,000 or more saw the most
significant increases, with the range $100,000 to $149,000
increasing from 9% to 19%. The income range $150,000 or
more saw an increase from 4% to 14%.
23
VI RECREATION INVENTORY
Regional Context
The Township is located in the western limits of Wayne County, Michigan.
The Township has an excellent internal and external transportation system
that provides Township residents with easy access to a number of Regional
park systems. The residents of the Township are within 45 minutes or less
drive time to a number of parks that are part of three separate regional
systems. These parks provide the Township residents unique regional
activities. The three systems are: Michigan State Parks System, HuronClinton Metropolitan Park System and the Wayne County Park System.
Michigan State Parks
The State owned parks offer an opportunity to make contact with nature only
a short distance from suburban and urban development patterns of Plymouth
and Metropolitan Detroit. These facilities offer a variety of uses such as
hiking, camping, picnicking, fishing, and canoeing.
The Parks available to the residents include:
 Maybury State Park
 Island Lake Recreation area
 Highland State Recreation Area
 Pontiac Lake State Recreation Area
 Proud Lake Recreation Area
 Dodge # 4 State Recreation Area
 Sterling State Park.
Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Parks
The Huron Clinton Metropolitan Authority (HCMA) operates a system of
metro parks as intensively developed and highly maintained recreation
facilities with only selected areas left in an undeveloped state. These parks
provide a full range of day-use facilities ranging from fishing, boating, golfing,
swimming, picnicking, and hiking on well defined, marked hiking trails. These
parks have been included in this Recreation Inventory to identify that a full
range of day-use activities is well within the service area for Plymouth
Township Residents. The driving distance of these areas, however, preclude
them from having any direct effect on the immediate (walking) distance
recreation needs of the Township.
The Parks available to the residents include:
•
•
•
•
Oakwoods Metro Park
Willow Metro Park
Lower Huron Metro Park
Delhi Metro Park
24
•
•
•
•
•
Dexter-Huron Metro Park
Hudson Mills Metro Park
Huron Meadows Metro Park
Kensington Metro Park
Indian Springs Metro Park
The Wayne County Park System:
A major feature of the County Park system is the Hines Parkway. The
parkway exists as a flood basin of the Middle Rouge River. Edward Hines
Drive is a picturesque roadway that winds along the river for more than 15
miles from Dearborn in the east to Northville in the west. A portion of the
parkway meanders through the northeast section of the Township. The full
parkway includes soccer fields, baseball diamonds, playscapes, scenic picnic
areas, open fields, paved and dirt bike trails and barbecue grills which line the
road, the river, lakes and some in quiet fields adorned with wild flowers and
shade trees. In the fall, a drive through Hines provides a beautiful look at
southeast Michigan's autumn foliage. In the winter, the park offers sledding
and skating venues. The community is part of the Rouge River watershed.
There are a multitude of places and activities within the watershed that
residents can use. A copy of a document entitled "Public Recreation Areas
and Activities" for the Rouge River basin can be obtained. This publication is
a rather extensive inventory of the places and activities in the watershed.
The following is a detailed inventory of the parks identified above:
1.
MICHIGAN STATE PARKS
A. Maybury State Recreation Area (Northville
Michigan)
The Maybury State recreation area is an approximately 944
acre State Park. The activities available at the park include:
•
Biking
A four-mile paved trail is available
•
Cross Country Skiing
Trails vary from moderate to difficult.
•
Fishing
Shoreline or pier fishing from Maybury's eight acre pond
•
Hiking
Both paved and dirt paths on a variety of terrain.
•
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking is available on the Yellow Trail, accessed
from the Paved Trail, which is shared with hikers.
•
Equestrian
25
Eleven miles of bridle trails are open for equestrians. Horses
are permitted only on marked trails. Riding stable and horse
staging areas for trailer parking available.
B.
•
Picnic Area
Fire pits/grills available.
•
Picnic Shelter
Four picnic shelters are available for rent
•
Playground
Island Lake Recreation Area (South of 1-96 and
East of US-23)
The Island lake recreation area is an approximately 4,000 acre
State Park. The activities available at the park include:

Biking
There are four miles of paved trail that wander through a
variety of habitats. This trail also connects to Kensington
Metro park and the Lyon Township Bike Trail.
•
Boat Rental
•
Canoes Rental
•
Paddleboats rental
•
Canoeing
A popular attraction at Island Lake is the canoe route down
the Huron River. There are two canoe campground sites,
accessible from the river only.
•
•
Fishing
Four lakes and the Huron River offer a variety of fishing
opportunities. Ice fishing is a popular winter activity.
•
Hiking
More than 18 miles of trails travel through varied habitats.
Visitors can hike, run and hunt along the trails, which are
split into two connecting loops. The East Loop (Yellow Loop)
circles the Huron River, is over five miles long and travels
through woodlands, fields, and crosses Mann Creek. The
West Loop (Blue Loop) is over nine miles long and
meanders through fields, woodlands and wetlands.
•
Hunting
Island Lake is open to hunting for all species following state
regulations between September 15 and March 31. This park
boasts excellent deer and rabbit hunting, while great hunting
opportunities exist for woodcock, pheasant, duck, goose,
26
and squirrel as well. The park is also open to trapping.
C.
•
Metal Detecting
Metal detecting is recognized as a legitimate recreation
activity when it is conducted in ways that do not damage the
natural and cultural resources in Michigan State Parks nor
violate applicable state statutes. Restricted areas only.
•
Mountain Biking
More than 14 miles of trails travel through varied habitats.
•
Snowmobiling
•
Swimming
Two beaches are available for day use, one at Kent Lake
and one at Spring Mill Pond with more than 100 feet of
sandy beach. The pond is spring fed, so the water stays cool
and clear all summer.
•
Wildlife Viewing
•
Beach House
•
Picnic Areas
The beach at Kent Lake is surrounded by acres of grassy
picnic area. A modern toilet building with changing courts,
vending machines, playground, sand volleyball courts,
horseshoe pits and grills are located throughout the picnic
area. A ball field is close by. The Meadow Picnic Area is the
site of the only balloon port in the State Park System.
Balloons usually take off in the early morning or late evening,
depending on the wind and weather.
•
Picnic Shelter
Seven shelters are available for rent. Four are near modern
toilet buildings and three have hand pumps and vault toilets.
Grills, picnic tables, volleyball courts and horseshoe pits are
provided at each shelter.
•
Shooting Range
The Island Lake facility is one of the nation's most modern
and safest shooting ranges. It has been expanded to include
skeet, trap and sporting clays at Island Lake Recreation
Area in addition to its original forty 25-yard, 50-yard, and
100- yard shooting stations. The range is fully handicap
accessible.
Highland State Recreation Area (North of
Milford)
The Highland State recreation area is an approximately 5,903
acre State park. The activities available at the park include:
27
•
Boat Launch
Boating access sites are located on Alderman, Teeple,
Moore and Lower Pettibone lakes within the park.
•
•
Fishing
Two fishing piers are available in the park, one located on
Alderman Lake and one on Lower Pettibone Lake. Shore
fishing is very popular near dam sites and on all lakes in the
recreation area.
•
Hiking
Nature trails abound at the Goose Meadow day-use area.
More than 17 miles of trails are open for hiking.
•
Hunting
Hunting is allowed within designated areas of the park.
•
Metal Detecting
violate applicable state statutes. Permitted in designated
areas only.
•
Mountain Biking
Approximately 15 miles of advanced trails are open to
mountain biking with a variety of loops shared with hikers.
•
Snow-mobiling
Check with park office for areas open to snowmobiling.
•
Swimming
A sandy beach is located on Teeple Lake.
•
Watchable Wildlife
•
Beach House
•
Dog Trial Area
Three dog field trial areas (FTA) are available. The Silo FTA,
the Barn FTA, and the Moore Lake FTA. Hunting dogs may
be trained year round.
•
Equestrian
A riding stable with 12 miles of equestrian trails is available.
•
Picnic Area
Picnic tables and fire pits/grills.
•
Picnic Shelter
Shelters are available to rent at several locations
28
D.
Pontiac Lake State Recreation Area (Pontiac
Lake Road and M-59)
The Pontiac Lake State recreation area is an approximately
3,745 acre State park. The activities available at the park
include:
•
Boat Launch
Boaters enjoy the lake for cruising, water-skiing and tubing in
addition to fishing
•
•
Fishing
For anglers, Pontiac Lake offers excellent fishing for bass,
pike and pan fish. Two new universally accessible fishing
piers are located at the Pontiac Lake Beach Area.
•
Fishing in the Parks
Learn more about fishing from free educational program.
•
Hiking
A 1.9-mile hiking trail runs from the campground to the
beach area.
•
Hunting
Rabbits, squirrel, grouse, woodcock, ducks, geese, raccoon
and deer may be hunted during their respective seasons.
This same habitat attracts a number of different birds and is
an excellent area for birding.
•
Metal Detecting
violate applicable state statutes. Permitted ion designated
areas only.
•
Michigan State Park Explorer Program
Learn more about the natural features and resources located
in this park.
•
Mountain Biking
The 11-mile mountain bike trail has been ranked as one of
the "Top 100 Trails" in the United States.
•
Snowmobiling
The park is open for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling,
although there are no established trails or areas for these
activities.
•
Swimming
29
E.
•
Beach House
•
Concession/ Store
•
Equestrian
Horses can be rented for riding on 17 miles of trails. Hay
rides, sunset rides and pony rides are also available.
•
Picnic Area
Day-use facilities located on Pontiac Lake provide park
visitors with a ball field, 1/3-mile long beach, modern
concession stand, boat launch, bathhouse, toilet buildings
and picnic areas.
•
Picnic Shelter
Picnic shelters are available on a first come- first-serve basis
or they can be reserved and rented on a daily basis.
•
Playground
•
Shooting Range
A supervised rifle range with a 25/50/100 yard rifle, pistol
and black powder range is available for use by park visitors.
There is also a shotgun range and an archery range.
Proud Lake Recreation Area (Near
Wixom Road and Glengary Road)
The Proud Lake recreation area is an approximately 4,700 acre
State park. The activities available at the park include:
•
Boat Launch
Boaters may access Proud Lake at the Bass Lake Road
boat launch. Registered campers may launch boats at the
campground launch.
•
Boat Rental
Boat rentals are available from April to October for row
boats, canoes, paddle boats and kayaks. Reservations are
available with special group services.
•
Canoeing
Canoes and kayaks can be rented at the Proud Lake
Campground and the Huron River. Canoe drop-off and pickup services are available,
•
•
Fishing
Beginning April 1, a two-mile stretch of the Huron River is
stocked with trout, until the last Saturday in April. Catch
and release rules apply. Regular fishing rules apply the rest
of the year. There is fishing in the lakes for bass, pike,
sunfish and crappies.
30
•
Learn more about fishing at a free educational program.
•
Hiking
Two of the hiking/ski trails run parallel to the Huron
River, while another loops around a marsh. The longer
trail, north of the Huron River, meanders alongside
forests, fields and wetlands.
•
Hunting
Hunting is permitted from September 15 through March 31.
Rabbit, squirrel, deer and grouse are among the wildlife
hunted, each having its own designated season. Hunting is
allowed west of Wixom Road and north of the Huron River
(please check with park personal for current status of
hunting)
•
Metal Detection
violate applicable state statutes. Metal Detecting in
designated areas only
•
in this park
•
Mountain Biking
About 10 miles of trails are open to mountain biking.
Trails in the western portion of the recreation area are
shared with equestrian riders and hikers.
•
Snowmobiling
•
Cabins & Lodges
•
Concession/ Store
•
Equestrian
An extensive network of trails offering varied terrain is
available for equestrian and mountain bike riders. Trails are
located west of Wixom Road.
•
Picnic Area
Fire pits/grills available
•
Picnic Shelters
The two picnic shelters at Powers can be reserved for group
use. If a shelter is not reserved, it is available for any patron.
31
F.
Dodge #4 State Recreation Area (Cass Lake
Orchard Lake area)
The Dodge #4 recreation area is an approximately 139 acre
State park. The activities available at the park include:
G.
•
Boat Launch
The Cass Lake access site can accommodate 80 vehicles
with trailers
•
Cross Country Ski
•
Fishing
Year-round fishing has an excellent reputation for
largemouth and smallmouth bass, pike, bluegill, perch and
trout. Dodge #4 has recently added a universally accessible
fishing pier on Cass Lake.
•
Swimming
The one-mile shoreline and swimming area features a white,
sandy beach.
•
Concession/ Store
•
Picnic Area
Shaded and sunny areas are available, along with picnic
tables and grills.

Picnic Shelter
Available for rentals.
•
Playground
Sterling State Park Recreation Area
(Frenchtown Township-Lake Erie)
The Sterling State Park recreation area is an approximately
1,300 acre State park. The activities available at the park
include:
•
Biking
Bicycles are welcomed on park roads and paved trails
marked for such use.
•
Boat Launch
The Jerry C. Bartnik Memorial Boating Access Site within the
park has 250 parking spaces and provides access to Lake
Erie, widely known for its walleye fishing. Near the launch is
a fish cleaning station and a modern restroom building.
•
Fishing
Walleye are plentiful in Lake Erie. Shore fishing is possible
at Sterling's three lagoons, three fishing piers and at its
32
access to River Raisin.
2.
•
Learn more about fishing at a free educational program.
•
Hiking
A total of seven miles of trails provide opportunities for
hiking, biking and exploring. The 2.9 mile paved Marsh Trail
circles one of the marsh lagoons in the park. A 0.6-mile
hiking trail follows the Lake Erie shoreline. These trails
include interpretive stations, an observation deck and a
covered pavilion with spotting scopes.
•
Metal Detecting
violate applicable state statutes. Metal Detecting in
designated areas only
•
in this park
•
Swimming
•
Watchable Wildlife
Sterling State Park is along the major flyway for many
migratory birds and a great place to see waterfowl, raptors,
song birds and wetland plants. The park is home to the
endangered Eastern fox snake and the threatened American
lotus.
•
Picnic Area
Day use areas are surrounded by water and include one
mile of sandy beach on Lake Erie, vending machines, a
modern toilet building, grills, picnic tables and a playscape
that is shared with the campground.
•
Picnic Shelter
Two picnic shelters are available
•
Playground
Shared area between campground and day-use areas.
HURON-CLINTON METRO PARKS
A. Oakwoods Metro Park (located near Flat Rock)
The Oakwoods Metro Park is an approximately 1,756 acre
Huron Clinton Metro Park. The activities available at the
park include:
•
Scenic woods
33
B.
•
Huron River Nature Center
Nature Center you can get up close to turtles swimming in a
700 gallon aquatic tank or look at a live snake
•
Scenic Trails
Overlooks the backwaters of the Huron River
•
3-acre pond
•
Equestrian trail
•
Paved hike-bike trail
Connects to Willow and Lower Huron Metroparks for a 15mile trail (30-mile round trip)
•
Picnic Area
•
Butterfly viewing trail
Designated as a monarch way station by Monarch Watch.
•
canoeing or kayaking
•
Fish along shore, at the Cedar Knoll Picnic area
•
Boat access.
Willow Metro Park (Off of 1-275 just south of
1-94)
The Willow Metro Park is an approximately 1,531 acre Huron
Clinton Metro Park. The activities available at the park include:
•
17-acre Washago Pond
•
Huron River.
•
18-hole golf course
•
Skatepark
•
Fishing
Along the Huron River or at Washago pond.
•
Cross-country skiing
•
Ice fishing
•
Sledding
•
4.5 mile hike-bike trail
•
24-hole disc golf course
Disc golf is a game in which individual players throw a Disc
into a basket or at a target. The object of the game is to
traverse a course from beginning to end in the fewest
number of throws of the disc.
•
Children's play area
•
Tennis court
34
C.
•
Shuffleboard courts
•
Boat rental
•
Geocaching
Geocaching is a high-tech treasure hunting game played
throughout the world by adventure seekers equipped with
GPS devices. The basic idea is to locate hidden containers,
called geocaches, outdoors and then share your
experiences online. Geocaching is enjoyed by people from
all age groups, with a strong sense of community and
support for the environment.
•
Ice skating
•
Toboggan
Lower-Huron Metro Park (Near New Boston)
The Lower-Huron Metro Park is an approximately 1,258 acre
Huron Clinton Metro Park. The activities available at the park
include:
•
Scenic Huron River.
•
Golf 18-hole, par-3 golf course.
•
Run paved hike-bike trail
•
inline skate along a paved, hike-bike trail
•
Shoreline fishing
•
Canoeing, Kayaking
•
Ice-skate or play a game of hockey on three, picturesque
frozen ice ponds
•
Scenic picnic areas
•
Basketball
•
Volleyball
•
Tennis courts
•
Camping
•
Softball diamonds
•
Horseshoe equipment available upon request
•
Volleyball equipment available upon request
•
Turtle Cove Family Aquatic Center
•
Two waterslides
•
Drift along a lazy river
•
Get soaked under the 300-gallon dumping bucket
35
D.
•
Wade into the zero-depth entry pool with lap lanes
•
Grille serves food and beverages
Delhi Metro Park (5 miles northwest of Ann
Arbor)
The Delhi Metro Park is an approximately 53 acre Huron Clinton
Metro Park. The activities available at the park include:
E.
•
Fishing
•
Canoeing
•
Adventure play ship,
•
Swings, slides and riding toys.
•
Softball diamonds.
•
Picnic areas, including two picnic shelters
•
Geocaching
Dexter-Huron Metro Park (71/2 miles
northwest of Ann Arbor)
The Dexter-Huron Metro Park is an approximately 122 acre
Huron Clinton Metro Park. The activities available at the
park include:
•
Heavily wooded areas
•
Picnic areas,
•
Swings, slides,
•
Softball diamond,
•
Fishing,
•
Canoe launching
•
Kayak launching
•
Geocaching
36
F.
Hudson-Mills Metro Park (12 miles northwest of
Ann Arbor)
The Hudson-Mills Metro Park is an approximately 1,549 acre
include:
•
Wetlands
•
Rapids of the Huron River
•
Canoeing
•
Kayaking.
•
Shoreline and fly fishing
•
18-hole, par-72 golf course
•
Two disc golf courses
Disc golf is a game in which individual players throw a disc
into a basket or at a target. The object of the game is to
traverse a course from beginning to end in the fewest
•
A 5.3-mile lane hike-bike trail
•
A 2-mile Acorn nature trail
•
Basketball
•
Volleyball
•
Softball diamonds
•
Soccer fields
•
Four picnic shelters
•
Swings
•
Slides
•
A canoe camp
•
A group camp
•
Children's play area
•
Tennis
•
Groomed cross-country ski trails
37
G.
Huron Meadows Metro Park (Just south of
Brighton)
The Huron Meadows Metro Park is an approximately 1,540 acre
include:
H.
•
Fall color viewing
•
Golfing
•
Fishing off pier at Maltby Lake
•
Bird watching
•
Paddle boat Rentals
•
Row boat Rentals
•
•
skate-skiers
•
Path systems
•
Picnic areas
Kensington Metro Park (East of Brighton)
The Kensington Metro Park is a park consisting of 4,481
sprawling acres of wooded, hilly terrain surrounding Kent Lake.
The activities available at the park include:

Biking


Tobogganing.

Swimming at Martindale or Maple beaches

Splash *n' Blast water area

Fishing

Boating

Boat tour of the lake aboard the Island Queen II

Ice-fishing

Skating on frozen lake waters.

18-hole regulation golf course

27-hole disc course
Disc golf is a game in which individual players throw a
disc into a basket or at a target. The object of the game is
to traverse a course from beginning to end in the fewest
38
I.

Nature center

Farm center

Picnic areas

Scenic hiking and biking trails

Bird watching

Boat rental

Boat launch

Camping

Canoeing and Kayaking

Fitness trail

Geocaching
GPS devices. The basic idea is to locate hidden
containers, called geocaches, outdoors and then share
your experiences online. Geocaching is enjoyed by
people from all age groups, with a strong sense of
community and support for the environment.

Hayrides

Horse Trails

Kids Cottage

Snowboarding

Shelter Rentals

Toilets

Nature/Hiking Trail

Equestrian Trail

Hiking Trail

Mountain Bike Trail
Indian Springs Metro Park (9 miles northwest of
Pontiac)
The Indian Springs Metro Park is a park consisting of 2,215
acres. The activities available at the park include:
•
Environmental Discovery Center
Native ecosystems
An underwater pond viewing room
•
Hiking trails
The trail meander the headwaters of the Huron River.
39
3.
•
Wildlife watching
The diverse habitats provide a natural sanctuary for a
wide range of wildlife.
•
Wildflower display
Prime time April through June.
•
18-hole regulation golf course
•
Scenic picnic areas
•
Volleyball and horseshoe pits
•
Spray 'n' Play spray grounds
With Adventure maze
Rock-climbing wall
•
Tot lot
•
Cross country-skiing
Nearly 12 miles of trails
•
Sledding near Meadowlark Picnic Area.
•
Entertain guests in a 200-capacity room
Overlooks a pond and open meadows.
WAYNE COUNTY PARKS
A. Middle Rouge Parkway
The Wayne County owned and operated Middle Rouge
Parkway is part of the regional park system. The parkway’s
influence on the recreation needs of the Township is, however,
much different from that of the State and Metro Park Systems
(see Map 2, Planning Unit Designation, Inventory and
Recreation Land Analysis). The Middle Rouge Parkway
meanders through the eastern portion of Plymouth Township
and the City of Plymouth. The parkway offers an array of
activities such as play apparatus for all ages, baseball and
softball diamonds, etc. Thus, the parkway offers many of the
activities associated with a neighborhood park, playfields and
playgrounds. It continues to be a main premise of this plan, that
the parkway, although developed as a regional park, may
service many of the recreation needs of the Township on a
neighborhood level. It is not the intent of this plan to imply that
due to the presence of the Middle Rouge Parkway, the
Township should leave the concerns of the eastern portion of
the Township in the hands of the County. On the contrary, it is
the intention of this analysis to point out that the land
necessary to service a large segment of the Township
population, in particular those located in the northeastern
portion of the Township is presently in public ownership.
40
The Township officials should continue to establish strong
communication links with the County. This point is of
greater significance today than it may have been in the
past. Given the economic realities of today, every aspect of
government and government services should be reviewed
and reworked if at possible to meet the needs of the
residents in a new more creative and cost effective ways.
In 1992, we witnessed a proposed shift in policy regarding the
care and upkeep of the County Park System. In fact, the system
has seen much better care since that time and the Township
over this time period has actually seen new installation of
facilities in the area of the park located within the Township.
The improved and continued coordinate with the County
regarding future development of the Middle Rouge Parkway will
insure projects that are being planned for the park will be
compatible with existing and future development of abutting
lands and that abutting developments will not result in a
negative impact to the recreation potential of the park area. In
addition this area offers an opportunity to maximize tax dollars
by joint efforts between the County and the Township.
The following facilities and activities are available in the Middle
Rouge Parkway:

Play apparatus - all ages

Formal ball diamonds with backstops

Tennis courts - poor repair

Picnic area and equipment

Sledding slope

Lawn area for net games

Aesthetic open areas with plantings

Natural areas

Drinking fountains

Shelter w/toilet facilities

Informal open play areas

Parking

Food concessions
41
Local Context
4.
SCHOOL DISTRICT
Township School Sites
The following is an inventory of the existing developed school sites in
Plymouth Township. Each school site is keyed to Map 2, Planning Unit
Designation, Inventory and Recreation Land Analysis.
A.
Site 4.1 – Plymouth Centennial Education Park*
Total Acreage: 312± Ac.
Total Acreage (Exclusive of buildings & parking) 140±Ac **
Facilities:
Football field (2)
Gymnasium
1/4 Mile running track (2)
Tennis courts (24)
Swimming pool (indoor) (2)
Auditorium (2)
Ball diamonds (12)
Classrooms (if needed)
Field area
Soccer fields (4)
* Figures obtained from Plymouth School District
** Based on future expansion of buildings
B.
Site 4.2 – Pioneer Middle School
Total Acreage: 19.29± Ac.
Total Acreage (Exclusive of buildings & parking) 9.5+ Ac
Facilities:
Football field/soccer field
Gymnasium (1)
Field area
Classroom (if needed)
Play apparatus
Basketball courts (2)
Ball fields (4)
Deficiencies: It would appear that the amount of acreage
remaining exclusive of buildings, parking and circulation would
be adequate for consideration as a playground and
neighborhood park. The major deficiency is in the range of
activities available and more importantly, the environmental
character of the property; lack of vegetation and shaded rest
areas. Improvements have been made to the ball fields;
however there is considerable room for further improvements.
Continued cooperation between the School District and the
Township will be necessary to begin to move forward on
I
42
enhancing the school sites. A first step was Isbister School.
Please see that action.
C.
Site 4.3 – Isbister Elementary School
Total Acreage (Exclusive of buildings & parking) 6.0± Ac.
Facilities:
Play apparatus
Ball diamonds (1)
Gymnasium
Hard surface area - basketball (4)
This area was used for a pilot project between the School
District and the Township. The outdoor open space areas had
drainage issues which curtailed development of the outdoor
areas. The Township and School District worked together to
change the existing context for development of school sites:
"Placement of School sites within neighborhoods" vs.
"Placement of Schools on neighborhood park sites". The School
District and the Township teamed up to produce a Master Plan
for the site. The system used involved the school principal,
school Parent Group, Township Director of Public Services, and
two students. After producing the Master Plan the Township and
School District financially came together to produce specific
improvements to the site which increased the recreational use
of the site during and after school time. Trees were planted,
mounding created to enhance the environment, and
underground drainage was installed to make an area playable
for ball diamond and soccer fields. The current economic times
have put this process on hold. It appears that given the
continued economic trends for both the Township and School
District this concept will continue to be placed on the back
burner. This approach should however be reinstituted when
ever the Township or the School District look at proceeding with
exterior School site or park improvements.
43
D.
Site 4.4 – Fiegel Elementary School
Total Acreage (Exclusive of buildings & 5.5± Ac parking)
Facilities:
Play apparatus
Gymnasium (1)
Ball diamonds (1)
Hard surface area
Field play area
Deficiencies: Acreage remaining for development is borderline.
Additional acreage would be preferred; however, it is not
available due to surrounding development. Major deficiency is
the environmental character of the property and potential
access problem. Key to neighborhood. Continued cooperation
between the school district and the Township will be necessary.
E.
Site 4.5 – Allen Elementary School
Facilities:
Play apparatus
Hard surface area
Ball diamonds (2)
Gymnasium (1)
Field play area
Soccer field (1)
Deficiencies: The remaining acreage is more than sufficient for
use as a neighborhood park. Major deficiencies are lack of
overall activities available and lack of positive aesthetic
environment. Development of the area should be consistent
with the philosophy of creating a neighborhood facility which
would house a school. This site is key to this planning area
because of lack of any private neighborhood parks. Continued
cooperation between the school district and the Township will
be necessary. (See Planning Unit 15 for comments.)
44
F.
Site 4.6 – Farrand Elementary School
Facilities:
Play apparatus
Paved play area
Ball diamonds (2)
Gymnasium (1)
Field play area Classrooms (if needed)
Soccer
Deficiencies: Remaining area is below average requirements
for a neighborhood park; however, with stringent design control
the area could be utilized for such purpose. Major deficiency is
lack of environmental character of a neighborhood park. With
the development of the Lake point soccer park the need as a
neighborhood park has somewhat diminished. (See Planning
Unit 47 for comments.) Continued cooperation between the
School District and the Township will be necessary.
G.
Site 4.7 – Tanger Elementary School
Facilities:
Play apparatus (1)
Gymnasium (1)
Basketball courts (3)
Soccer field (1)
Deficiencies: Available acreage well within limits-potential for
environmental character. A major problem for this site is the
necessity to cross Five Mile Road. Given the above issue this
site would not be a good candidate for development between
the School District and the Township.
45
H.
Site 4.8 – West Middle School
Total Acreage (Exclusive of buildings &parking)10.0±Ac.
Facilities:
Ball diamonds (2)
Gymnasium
Field sports area
Paved area
Classrooms (as needed)
Football/soccer field (1)
Deficiencies: Remaining land well within the acreage
requirements for a neighborhood park. Some progress made
relative to environmental character of the property but
improvements would be necessary in this area. Continued
cooperation between the school district and the Township will
be necessary.
I.
Site 4.9 – Bird Elementary
Facilities:
Play apparatus (1)
Paved play area
Ball fields (2)
Gymnasium
Field sports area/arena (1)
needed)
Classrooms (as
Deficiencies: Remaining area within range for consideration as
neighborhood park. Major deficiency in establishing
environmental character of the site which would be in keeping
with image of neighborhood park. Continued cooperation
between the school district and the Township will be necessary.
5.
SCHOOL DISTRICT
City School Sites
A.
Site 5.1 – Central Middle School Building
Facilities:
Swimming Pool (indoor)
Tennis courts (7)
Gymnasium (1)
Ball diamonds (5)
Auditorium (1)
Football field (1)
1/4-mile running track
46
B.
Site 5.2 – Junior High East
Facilities:
Gymnasium (1)
Playground equipment
Ball fields (2)
Soccer field (1)
C. Site 5.3 – Starkweather Elementary
Facilities:
Soccer field (1)
D.
Site 5.4 – Smith Elementary
Facilities:
Gymnasium (1)
Playground equipment
Ball fields (4)
Soccer field (1)
Summary of School Sites
In general each of the school sites evaluated contained sufficient land area to
be considered for utilization as a neighborhood park. In almost all cases, the
existing environments must be classified as well below average for such
purposes. Another consideration which should be raised is that the majority of
school sites are oriented in a manner which place the building property on the
frontage of either a major or minor thoroughfare road with the main bulk of the
land to be developed surrounded by residential uses with, in most cases, only
limited access and exposure to the residential streets.
This presents two particular problems: First, the improvement of the facilities
utilizing tree plantings and various landscape development techniques will
have little impact on the image of the residential area; secondly, since the
main bulk of the property has little public exposure there are concerns on the
part of local residences regarding improvement to the facilities and
encouraging further use of the area with the feeling that such an approach
would spawn problems with vandalism and rowdiness thus impacting those
residences directly abutting the properties.
In general, Sites 4.4, 4.5, 4.6 & 4.8 should be given first consideration due to
the lack of private park land within close proximity. Specific recommendations
regarding these sites should be dealt with on an individual basis where a
more detailed review is made of the individual planning units. Any action must
take into effect the desires and needs of the neighborhood which it is
intended to service.
47
6.
PLYMOUTH TOWNSHIP LANDS
ACQUIRED/DEVELOPED BEFORE 1992
The following is an inventory of the existing Township owned lands.
Each site is keyed to Map 2.
A.
Site 6.10 – Plymouth Township Recreation
Complex
Total Acreage: 173+ Ac.
Total Acreage (Exclusive of golf course and proposed
expansion) 77 + Ac.
Facilities:
18-hole golf course
Sprayscape
Walking Trail
Ice skating
Fishing pond (stocked)
Open play area
Picnic areas
Sled hill/separate “tot” hill
Fishing dock
Playscape (Artist created play area)
Ball diamonds (Little League regulation with lighting (3-1 w/0
lighting)
Picnic shelters (1 pavilion and 2 shelters)
Deficiencies:
Park: Substantial improvements were made to the park in the
period from 1992 to 2005 consistent with the Recreation Plan.
The 17 acre site to the north of the park was pursued and the
wooded portion was obtained by the Township without any cost
to the Township. Numerous requests had been made to make
the fishing barrier-free accessible and for better access through
the general park. Seniors indicated a walk through the park’s
environment is difficult without a walk system. The park and the
creek afforded an opportunity to educate the general public
about water quality and creek side development. This was a
missed opportunity. Substantial improvements along this line
were made during the last Recreation Plan time frame. See
past goal attainment review section for progress and
improvements to date.
The current major deficiencies are: Tender love and care for
sections of the park that have been around for some time and
been neglected (this includes such things as increased
housekeeping, increase in maintenance, replacing and
expanding antiquated equipment such as the lighting etc.
48
Golf Course: The golf course has a very tight layout which has
parallel fairways adjacent to each other with in some cases little
if any separation. The vacant triangle formed by Beck Road,
Ann Arbor Trail, and the vacated Powell Road should be
incorporated into the course layout. This would require
adjustment to several holes. The relocation of a more
permanent club house should be a consideration. A more
permanent clubhouse should be located so as to permit some
long views from the clubhouse. Give consideration to making
this an all purpose building.
B.
Site 6.11 – Public Park near Morrison Street
Total Site Area: 1 + Ac.
Undeveloped: 1+ Ac.
Deficiencies: No activities available, access size and visibility
problem; location in respect to major drainage swale also a
problem. Remove from land bank and return to adjacent land
owners.
C.
Site 6.12 – Public Park near Robinwood Street
(Brentwood Park)
Total Acreage: 1.47 + Ac.
Facilities:
Ball field
Creative play area
Play apparatus
Deficiencies: Need to determine best use; major deficiency is
the size of site. Limited service area. Continued maintenance in
particular fiber for play area and watering. Additional trees as
needed. Evaluate request from Homeowners Association (see
attached letter.)
D.
Site 6.13 – West Point Park (Ann Arbor Road &
Ann Arbor Trail)
Total Acreage: 0.8+ Ac.
Viewing Open Space Only
Deficiencies: None at this time. Continues to be a major
maintenance expense. May wish to consider other alternatives
and incorporation into larger area.
E.
Site 6.14 – Friendship Station/Senior Complex
Total Acreage: 1.0 + Ac
49
Facilities:
Horseshoe pits
Meeting Room
Deficiencies: Size of facility to be increased to reflect additional
needs of the aging portion of the population. Consider additional
acquisition of adjacent properties as opportunities present
themselves. Continue as Senior Center.
F.
Site 6.15 – West of Robinwood (South of M-14
X-way)
Undeveloped and used as expressway buffer
Some large trees on western end
Easement to site from Robinwood
Deficiencies: Basically undeveloped. Cost to develop would not
be warranted due to location. Best use as a buffer for residence.
Sell and divide to adjacent residents or keep only as natural,
unmaintained buffer to expressway.
G.
Site 6.16 – Fire Station (2) and Property to East
Undeveloped (approximately 1 acre remains excluding use for
fire station and water tower)
Deficiencies: General location and size could develop as sole
source activity area only. May best be kept for future expansion
of fire station if needed.
H.
Site 6.17 – Lake Pointe Soccer Park
Three properties obtained and joined. Developed into soccer
park with two fields, play area, walking path, shelter and
parking.
Deficiencies: No deficiencies at this time.
50
I.
Site 6.18 – Fire Station No. 3
Developed and located at major intersection
Deficiencies: Full use for fire station.
J.
Site 6.19 – Previous Municipal Offices
Deficiencies: No recreation potential. Excess property for sale
by the Township.
K.
Site 6.20 – Department of Public Works
Deficiencies: No recreation potential except for passive lunch area.
7.
TOWNSHIP SITES ACQUIRED / DEVELOPED
SINCE 1992
A. Site 7.21 – Glenview Estates
Wooded portion of 17 acre site north of park. Wooded portion
was deeded to Township at no cost while the remaining open
area was developed as single family housing under the cluster
housing option.
Deficiencies: Should be physically incorporated as part of the
park proper and fence line should be reconfigured. Need to
work with neighbors regarding fencing.
B.
Site 7.22 – Miller Family Park
Total Acreage: 3 + Ac.
A neighborhood park consisting of open play area, treed area
and children play area. Sprinkler system installed for majority of
park.
Deficiencies: None at this time. Replace dead trees.
C.
Site 7.23 - Township Hall
Developed as Township Hall facility and Fire Station.
Approximately 1.2 + Ac. Of land retained wooded area.
Deficiencies: None at this time. Established program to
strengthen wooded area. Make sure program is maintained.
51
8.
PRIVATE OPEN SPACE WITHIN R.U.D. OR
CLUSTER DEVELOPMENTS
A. Site 8.24 – Trailwood No. 2 & No. 3
No play apparatus or defined play areas.
Deficiencies: The area has been retained in its "existing
natural" state. The area encompasses the natural drainage
swale for the area which provides for potential of storm
detention and provides for a pleasing contrast to the developed
area. The main function of this area is surface water runoff;
visual change for the neighborhood and an unstructured play
area for the children. Because of the storm drainage system this
area would be difficult to develop for formal, more structured
recreation areas. The framework is, however, present for a
limited number of formal structured play areas if the
neighborhood unit determines a need for such activities. If the
neighborhood decides to incorporate more structured play area,
care should be taken to insure that proper planning and site
design principles are utilized. This is an area which the
Township may wish to consider assistance to the neighborhood
groups.
B.
Site 8.25 – Walnut Creek Subdivision
No play apparatus or defined play area.
Deficiencies: The area contains drainage swales and a storm
retention basin creating a small pond in the area. This open
space area has high potential for structured play if it is
determined necessary by the neighborhood unit. This is an area
in which the Township may wish to consider assistance to the
neighborhood groups.
C.
Site 8.26 – Colony Farms Subdivision #1 & #2
and Condominiums
No play apparatus or defined play areas.
Deficiencies: The areas of open space are well defined and
distributed through the development. The area has high
potential for structured play areas if it is determined necessary
by the neighborhood unit. This is an area which the Township
may wish to consider assistance to the neighborhood groups.
52
Site 8.27 – Westbriar Village Subdivision #1
Play apparatus
Deficiencies: The area has maintained an apple orchard and
constructed within it a path system, benches and children’s play
area. Setting is available for additional structured play if
determined appropriate by the neighborhood unit.
E.
Site 8.28 – Westbriar Village Subdivision #2
Path system, play apparatus
Deficiencies: The area has been designed for storm detention
at peak flows. Framework is present for additional structured
play area if determined appropriate by the neighborhood unit.
Any modification should be reviewed by the Township to ensure
that the storm system characteristics are not modified in a
negative manner.
F.
Site 8.29 – Ridgewood Hills Subdivision #1, 2, 3
and 4
Path, Natural setting
Deficiencies: The area has been developed as a passive open
space area offering greater separation between houses. The
ability to include structured areas as desired by the
neighborhood unit can be accomplished but is limited to a
certain degree based on topography and existing vegetation.
This is an area in which the Township may wish to consider
assistance to the neighborhood groups.
G.
Site 8.30 – Quail Run & Ridgewood West
Natural setting
Deficiencies: The area has been developed primarily as
passive open space area. Limited framework is present for
structured play area if determined necessary by the
neighborhood unit. Any anticipated modification should be
submitted to the Township for review. This is an area in which
the Township may wish to consider assistance to the
neighborhood groups.
53
H.
Site 8.31 – Pine Ridge Subdivision
Natural Setting
passive open space area. Framework is present for structured
play area if determined necessary by the neighborhood unit.
Any anticipated modification should be submitted to the
Township for review. This is an area which the Township may
wish to consider assistance to the neighborhood groups.
I.
Site 8.32 – Plymouth Commons
Creation of natural setting
Deficiencies: The area has been set aside and substantial
plantings made to develop a future naturalist setting. The
primary intent is passive recreation. Framework is present for
submitted to the Township for review.
J.
Site 8.33 – Deer Creek & Hunters Creek
Natural Setting
Deficiencies: Frontage area along Powell Road intended to
serve drainage needs as well as passive open space needs
(breaks up the views of continued housing.) Not available for
modification for more active recreation. The most northerly area
of Deer Creek retains large existing trees and is therefore
available for more active recreation if determined by the
neighborhood unit. Any anticipated modifications should be
submitted to the Township for review. This is an area which the
groups.
K.
Site 8.34 – Fox Pointe
Natural Setting
plantings made to develop a future naturalistic setting. The
54
groups.
L.
Site 8.35 – Heather Hills Subdivision #1/
Heather Hills Highland Condos
Natural setting
plantings made to develop a future naturalist setting. The
groups.
M.
Site 8.36 – Beacon Meadows/Eaton Estates
Natural setting
N.
Site 8.37 – Arboretum
Natural Setting
Township for review. This is an area in which the Township may
O.
Site 8.38 – Plymouth Hills Mobile Home Park
Natural Setting
55
P.
Site 8.39 – Oakhaven Mobile Home Park
Natural setting
Q.
Site 8.40 – Rolling Oaks
Natural setting, swimming pool for subdivision
R.
Site 8.41 – Andover Lakes/Andover Lakes
Condos/Andover Lakes West
Natural setting, lake
passive open space and retention of wetland areas. Framework
is present for structured play area if determined necessary by
the neighborhood unit. Any anticipated modification should be
S.
Site 8.42 – Huntington Park
Natural setting
plantings made to develop a future naturalistic setting. The
56
primary intent is passive recreation. Some play equipment has
been incorporated. Framework is present for additional
T.
Site 8.43 – Country Acres (all phases)
Total Acreage: 94.16 Ac.
Natural setting, wetlands and land in power line corridor,
swimming pool, playground, tennis courts and sand volleyball
provided.
Deficiencies: Passive open space should be accessible by
pathways to residents.
U.
Site 8.44 – Woodlore South
Natural setting, mature quality tree stand preserved
V.
Site 8.45 – Trillium Woods
Natural setting
W.
Site 8.46 – Greystone Estates
Natural setting
Deficiencies: This area is small and is intended specifically for
storm detention and visual separation from Township complex.
Because of size, more than function, this should not be counted
as private open space. Unlike other areas this area is extremely
57
limited.
X.
Site 8.47 – Woodlore North
Natural setting
Y.
Site 8.48 – Woodland Pond Condos
The area has a natural pond that has been retained.
Deficiencies: Used primarily as passive recreation, however,
fishing and small boating available.
Z.
Site 8.49 – Saddlebrook
Natural setting
Deficiencies: Small area intended specifically for storm water
and passive viewing.
AA. Site 8.50 – Portsmouth Crossing Subdivision
Deficiencies: Passive open space transition to expressway.
BB. Site 8.51a – l
Distribution of open space areas within the High Tech and
Industrial section of the northwest portion of the Township.
Primary purpose storm detention and water quality control.
9.
PRIVATE OWNED RECREATION FACILITIES IN
CLOSE PROXIMITY TO TOWNSHIP AVAILABLE
TO GENERAL PUBLIC
Other private recreation facilities are located in Plymouth Township or
within the immediate proximity which provide activities to the Township
residents. Any planning dealing with recreation should take these uses
58
into consideration. The following is a listing of the above mentioned uses
to insure that they are considered in the evaluation process.
A.
Site 9.300 – St. John’s Golf Course and
Conference Center






B.
Site 9.301 – Bally’s




C.





Private Conservation Club
Trap/skeet shoot facility - 5 stations
Open shooting - 3 Ranges
Archery - 5 Stations
Site 9.305 – Plymouth Cultural Center


G.
Indoor ice rink (hockey)
Restaurant
Site 9.304 – Western Wayne County
Conservation Association

F.
40 Lanes
Billiards
Site 9.303 – Arctic Pond Ice Arena

E.
¼ mile indoor track
Racquetball courts (2)
Indoor swimming pool
Weight lifting facilities
Site 9.302 – Plaza Lanes Bowling Facility

D.
27 holes
Golf learning center
Driving range
Meeting rooms
Banquet facility
Motel under Construction
Indoor ice rink
Meeting rooms
Site 9.306 – Compuware Sports Arena


Indoor ice rinks (2) (1 NHL standard, 1 Olympic)
Restaurant
59
H.
Dun Rovin Golf Course (6 Mile & Haggerty)

I.
Brae Burn Golf Course (5 Mile & Napier)

J.
9 holes
18 holes
Racquetime (Plymouth & Levan)
60
VII. STANDARDS AND CRITERIA
What areas are significant to the organizational development of the
Township? What features play a key role in the existing image of the
Township? Where are these features located? How much park and open
space should be provided in Plymouth Township? What facilities or type of
recreation should be added to or created in the Township? In the goals and
objectives section of the plan, we discussed the methodology that will be
used to answer these questions. We will revisit and update each element so
we can adequately and appropriately analyze the physical features of the
Township, the administrative structure of the Township related to the
established operation and maintenance of recreation facilities, the existing
recreation lands and facilities in the Township along with the projected needs
of the existing and future Township population.
The objective of this analysis is to determine existing and potential
deficiencies related to open space and recreation planning along with
determining the positive existing features of each. The ultimate goal is to
establish an implementation program which will reinforce the positive
elements discovered which are in keeping with the primary goals of the
recreation plan, and to develop a program which will move toward the
elimination of any determined consequential deficiencies. Standards and
criteria are identified in this plan to establish a means of comparison or
measuring stick. The standards and criteria are intended to be used as a
guide. Each deficiency will have to be reviewed to determine its
consequence(s); is it a very low priority, based on the demands of the
Township population or in respect to competition for recreation dollars?
The standards and criteria section of the recreation plan can be compared to
a road map when traveling. A very specific route to your destination is usually
established on your map. Your exact course however can be drastically
adjusted depending on your specific needs and desires without losing track of
your ultimate destination. This is precisely the function of the standard and
criteria section. The following section therefore will be used to establish a set
of standards and criteria for open space and recreation in the Charter
Township of Plymouth.
Open Space Standards
A simplistic approach to this task would be to establish a quantitative
standard; the Charter Township of Plymouth, given its geographic size and
population, should have “x” number of acres of open space land. Later in this
section we will use a very similar approach for determining recreation
standards. When dealing with open space we are not, however, afforded the
luxury of developing a quantitative standard. This is mainly due to the fact that
open space is a much more complex matter involving a multitude of
objectives and functions. The following criteria and standards are established
61
for open space planning in the Charter Township of Plymouth.
1.
Major and Minor Community Entries
Every community has entry points of different scale, major or minor
entry points into the community. The type of entry is based on current
and future volumes of traffic. These areas are significant to the first
image one receives of a community and can be a positive or negative
aspect in the organization of the community, depending on how
development is allowed to progress in these areas. First and foremost
entrances must be defined and noted as needing special attention in
the planning process. The definition of these areas after careful
analysis can be seen on Map 1, Key Resource & Open Space Areas,
attached as an Appendix A. This map has been revised to reflect the
current conditions of the Township.
Development of each major and minor entry point should be completed
in a manner that recognizes the potential impact from the land uses
proposed for the area as well as the importance and significance of
developing site planning and landscape treatments which recognize its
status as an entry point. Thus, the identification of the I-275/Ann Arbor
Road Corridor should take on special meaning. Previously this was
expressed by the construction of the clock tower which provided this
area a recognizable landmark. In 1999 the plan called out that
“setbacks and landscape areas, depending on the particular land use
and proposed treatment, may need to be increased from what would
normally be acceptable in other areas of the Township”. Since that
time the Township determined that the Ann Arbor Road Corridor was a
significant commercial zone of the Township. The Ann Arbor Road
Corridor zoning district was adopted which requires the road frontage
to be developed with brick piers, fencing, flowers and trees. The
Township is enforcing these changes during the site plan review phase
of the development process. In addition the Township, in partnership
with MDOT, sought and received a grant for the improvements of the
corridor from Eckles Road to an area just west of Haggerty Road. The
Township should continue to monitor this area and continue with the
expansion of the corridor plan.
2.
Major Thoroughfare Right-of-Way
The road right-of-way and the land immediately abutting the right-ofway is a significant open space area which contributes to the
organization of the community as well as the perceived visual image.
These areas must be defined in the Township and properly addressed
in the site plan review process conducted by staff and the Planning
Commission. The Township should continue to move forward with this
process. In the last three to four years the Township has spent a
considerable amount of dollars, approximately $450,000, to put in
62
sidewalks throughout the community to permit pedestrian and bicycle
traffic ways to form connection between where people live to places of
interest in the community. This effort should be continued and
expanded to not only tie internal features and places together but to tie
into all abutting communities and destinations within them. (See Map 1)
3.
M-14 and I-275 Expressways
The areas immediately abutting the rights-of-way for I-275 and M-14
limited access highways are essential open space areas. (See Map 1)
The treatment of this area is important from two perspectives: first, to
establish a buffer or transition between abutting land uses and second,
this area is significant to the image one receives of the community as
one passes through on the expressway. Proper site layout, landscape
treatment and development along these areas can reduce the negative
impact of the expressway on abutting land uses, in particular
residential developments, and can enhance in a positive manner the
visual impact on the highway traveler. Many of the areas along the
expressway have been developed and the concerns raised should be
addressed during the site plan review process. There still remain some
in fill areas that the community will have to monitor to make sure these
issues are addressed. One of the primary aspects that will now come
into play is to insure these areas are preserved and maintained. Many
times “creep” can occur that would slowly see these areas diminished.
Retention and protection will have to become the mainstay over the
next 5 years.
4.
Woodlots
The existing wooded areas in the Township play a significant role in
the quality and image of Plymouth Township. Each wooded area is of
different quality and therefore, the treatment of woodlots in the
development process will have varying effects on the future image of
the Township. An area of low underbrush and a scattering of large
deciduous trees would better lend itself to development than would an
area consisting mainly of mature Beech trees. The quality of the
woodlot should determine the approaches which will be used to
incorporate the area in the development process. During the site plan
and/or PUD or RUD process each wooded area should be analyzed to
determine the value of the woodlot to the overall image of the
community as well as the proposed development. Care should be
taken to insure that each wooded area incorporated into a
development is maintained and enhanced over time.
5.
Drainage Swales, Streams and Drains
The existing drainage swales and streams of the Township provide an
economical means of carrying storm water runoff from the Township
63
and form an important network which contributes to the existing image
of the Township. These areas should be defined and incorporated into
the future growth of the Township by restricting building and filling in
these areas. (See Map 1.)
The quality and thus the amount and type of development at the
drainage areas will be dependent upon the extent and quality of the
vegetation (trees, shrubs, etc.) found along and within the banks of the
drainage swales, etc. Any improvements of drainage systems should
be handled in a manner which recognizes and responds to this feature.
In addition, development should be setback a significant distance from
the stream edge. The setback area should be planted and graded in a
manner that will positively impact water quality.
6.
Open Space along Thoroughfares
The existing Plymouth environment is a blend of housing, business,
industry, offices and open space. Careful attention should be paid to
insure that future growth will allow significant open space areas to
penetrate to public thoroughfares. Too often as a community develops
and open space is set aside, these areas are tucked away and out of
sight from the roadway. House after house, business after business, is
the only perspective one sees as they travel along the roadway.
Open space areas should be allowed to penetrate to the roadway and
break up the areas of development. This approach will assert an
important influence on maintaining the existing character of the
Township. To date, this concept has been incorporated into the
development system and has achieved a desired end. Ridgewood Hills
Subdivision (southeast corner) along the north side of Ann Arbor Road
and Westbriar Subdivision No. 1 (northeast corner) along the west side
of McClumpha Road are two successful examples of this concept.
Recreation Standards
1.
Principles
The following principles were used to prepare the park and recreation
standards for the Charter Township of Plymouth.
a.
Different age groups have different interests and needs and
therefore require different types of facilities. These varying
needs must be taken into consideration in the planning of
recreation areas. Whenever possible, recreation facilities should
be separated according to the age group that will be using them.
Some facilities must also be designed to serve the needs of all
age groups, i.e., family-type recreation areas. In order to
64
program effectively for the provision of all types of facilities, a
system of classification for parks and recreation areas has been
adopted, which reflects the needs and uses of each group and
combination of groups.
b.
Recreation areas should be easily accessible to those groups
which will be using them. Generally speaking, the age of the
user will determine the service area of the facility. With these
considerations in mind, standards for the various types of parks
and recreation facilities have been used. These areas
expressed in terms of walking distance to the facility. There are
no service area standards for playfields or major parks since
they serve the entire Township population.
c.
A difficult problem is the design of facilities so as to facilitate a
parallel transition along with the neighborhood it serves. For
example, a certain neighborhood may now contain a high
percentage of young married couples with young children.
Twenty years from now, this neighborhood may be
predominately middle-aged, with the children having grown up
and moved away. The park and recreation needs of such a
neighborhood would obviously change over this twenty year
period.
The investigation of age-group population standards is intended
primarily for the evaluation of existing facilities and uses. Since
there is no reliable method of projecting age-group breakdowns
in areas yet to be developed, the planning of parks and
recreation facilities for these areas must be based on gross
population projections.
d.
In devising standards for recreation areas, the standards used
or proposed by other agencies have been consulted. Since
every community has unique problems and resources, shouldn’t
individual standards be established for each community? Such
a procedure is impractical, however, because of the immense
amount of study required. So the educated opinions of
recreation experts have been used to compile standards which
seem to reflect the needs of the Township residents.
e.
The standards presented as part of this plan do not represent
absolutes. The standards are intended to be used as guides in
the selection and acceptance of sites as well as the evaluation
of existing and projected facilities. The standards have been
maintained from previous hears to maintain continuity. The
standards are intended to give the community some sense of
measurement; a sense of place in respect to what other
65
communities may or may not be providing in the area of
recreation. The community by way of the plan will then
determine the significance of each registered differential from
the standards.
f.
2.
The suitability of a site for its intended or existing use may be
equal to or of greater concern than the standard for acreage or
service area.
Type of Category of Recreation Area
The establishment of recreation standards found in this plan are based
on the aforementioned principles along with the determination of
specific types of recreation areas and facilities which will respond to
the needs of the primary age group intended to be served. The
following represents a breakdown of various park categories, potential
users, and projected activities. The actual breakdown was established
in previous Township recreation and open space plans and although it
may not fully coincide with current recreation jargon, it does satisfy the
original and current intent to serve as a guide to the community.
a.
Play Area, Tot Lot, Mini-Park
This is a small area specifically designed for a special segment
of the population, such as a creative and active play area for
pre-school age children, or an area for senior citizens. It is
essentially a substitute for or addition to the individual backyard,
and is generally provided in areas of higher density. Although
located within a playground, neighborhood park, or major park,
it is physically separated or buffered from the activities of older
age groups. The minimum size residential lot in Plymouth
Township is 7,200 square feet in area with a minimum rear yard
of 50 feet. This range increases from the base of 7,200 square
feet to 43,500 square feet. This yard serves as an important
recreation area for the entire family and in particular the age
group between 1-5 years of age. For this reason tot lots and
mini-park play areas will not be required as separate facilities.
Strong consideration should be given to incorporating these
types of facilities in multiple family and mobile home
developments where specific yard area for pre-schoolers may
be lacking. The play area or tot lot combines active and passive
recreation areas active for the small children and passive for
their parents.
Possible facilities:
 Tot play apparatus swings, teeter-totters, sandbox, etc.
 Paved area for wheeled toys
66







Play houses
Open turf area for running
Small wading or spray pool
Benches for parents
Drinking fountain
Trees for shade
Buffering and fencing
Generalized areas:
 Paved play
 Turf play-active
 Paths
 Plantings
b.
Playground
The neighborhood playground is an area which serves the
primary play needs of children from 5 to 15 years old, and also
affords limited opportunities for the entire neighborhood. Long
considered exclusively as a children’s area, its use by teens and
adults have made it increasingly a center for outdoor recreation
for the whole neighborhood. The playground is usually provided
as a regular part of elementary school facilities. It may also be
located within a neighborhood park, playfield, or major park. It is
a basic unit in the Township recreation system.
While it can be combined with other more comprehensive
recreation areas, the playground itself is almost exclusively
devoted to active recreation for children.
Possible facilities:
 Junior-sized playground equipment
 Informal baseball diamond(s) with backstop
 Basketball court(s)
 Tennis court(s)
 Ice skating-flooded paved area
 Lawn area for net games
 Open area for general games
 Wading or spray pool
 Shaded area for resting and table games
 Drinking fountain
 Landscape features
67

c.
Picnic area
Neighborhood Park
The neighborhood park is designed to meet the recreation
needs of all age groups. It includes areas and facilities for both
active and passive family recreation. Ideally, the neighborhood
park will contain wooded areas and varied topography for
passive recreation and picnicking. It should provide an attractive
setting and be a major contributor to the visual quality of the
area it serves.
It is quite possible that a playground be combined with the
neighborhood park. This is, in fact, quite often the case. What
differentiates the two, aside from size, are the passive
recreation facilities of the neighborhood park and its visual
importance in the neighborhood.
Possible Facilities:
 Play apparatus-all ages
 Formal baseball diamonds w/backstop
 Tennis courts
 Basketball courts
 Picnic area and equipment
 Sledding slope
 Aesthetic open areas w/plantings
 Natural areas
 Drinking fountains and water supply
 Shelter w/toilet facilities
 Shaded area for resting and table games
 Parking
Generalized Areas:
 Turf-active
 Turf-passive
 Paved play
 Parking
 Plantings
 Natural area
 Paths
 Shelter
 Winter play
68

d.
Picnic area
Playfield
The playfield provides a variety of facilities primarily for the use
of young people and adults, although a section is usually
developed as a playground for children in the surrounding
neighborhood. It makes possible popular forms of recreation
and sports that require more space than is available on a
playground and is usually developed with formal athletic
facilities. The dominate thrust of the playfield is toward
organized sports.
Possible Facilities:
 Formal baseball diamonds w/backstop and bleachers
 Informal diamonds w/backstops
 Football and soccer fields
 Tennis courts
 Basketball courts
 Courts for other games
 Ice skating area
 Swimming pool
 Band shell
 Playground equipment
 Running track
 Toilet facilities
 Drinking fountains
 Parking
 Shaded areas for resting
Generalized areas:
 Turf area-active
 Paved play
 Parking
 Plantings
 Paths
 Pool
e.
Major Park
The major park serves the entire community and provides
facilities to meet a much wider range of recreation interests than
will be found in the neighborhood parks. It serves all age groups
69
in the population. Ideally, it should be an area of unique scenic
and topographic character, taking full advantage of the existing
landscape.
f.
Special Uses
These are areas of specialized use or single purpose recreation
activities. These special open space and recreation uses have
no applicable standards for service area, or range. The size
and population served is variable dependent upon the particular
use. These uses would include, but not be limited to,
landscaped areas, conservation lands, wetlands, cemeteries,
water courses, arboretums, swale areas, etc.
70
TABLE 6
PLYMOUTH TOWNSHIP RECREATION STANDARDS
Type of
Facility
Play Area,
Mini-Park
Playground
Neighborhood
Park
Playfield
Major Park
Special Uses
***
General Description
Primary
Age
Group
Served
Minimum
Site Size
(Acres)
1-5
1
6-14
2-2.5
All ages
4-8
Age 10
and over
All ages
Used to address limited,
isolated, or unique
recreational needs
Depending on
circumstances, combining
parks with school sites
can fulfill the space
requirements for other
classes of parks, such as
neighborhood,
community, sports
complex and special use.
Remains the basic unit of
the park system and
serves as the recreational
and social focus of the
neighborhood. Focus is
on informal active and
passive recreation.
Consolidates heavily
programmed athletic
fields and associated
facilities to larger and
fewer sites strategically
located throughout the
community.
Serves a broader purpose
than community parks.
Used when community
and neighborhood parks
are not adequate to serve
the needs of the
community. Focus is on
meeting communitybased recreational needs,
as well as preserving
unique landscapes and
open spaces.
Covers a broad range of
parks and recreation
facilities oriented toward
single-purpose use.
All ages
Service Area
Range
Less than ¼
mile distance
¼ to ⅜ mile
walking
distance
Area
Required
Per 1,000
Gross
Population
(Acres)
Preferred Location
Except in special cases, play areas
will not be provided as separate
facilities but will be contained with
other facilities and buffered from the
activities of other groups
1.5 to 2*
Well centered **,
preferably adjacent to
elementary school
¼ to ½ mile
distance and
uninterrupted
by nonresidential
roads and
other physical
barriers.
1.75
Well centered, in
residential planning
district where possible
15
Entire
Community
Population
1.25
With junior high or
senior high schools
where possible
25
Entire
Community
Population
5
Well centered in
planning area when
possible, although
considerations of
suitable and
availability of land take
precedence
These are public “open spaces” which have no minimum areas or
service area standards
71
Type of
Facility
General Description
Primary
Age
Group
Served
Minimum
Site Size
(Acres)
Service Area
Range
Area
Required
Per 1,000
Gross
Population
(Acres)
Preferred Location
* If 0.5 acre play area; mini-park is included.
** Well centered: In a location such that the potential service area encompasses only residential areas.
*** Landscaped areas, natural areas, parkways, golf courses, conservation lands, cemeteries, water courses, arboretums, swale
areas.
TABLE 7
FACILITY DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
Activity/
Facility
Recommended
Space
Requirements
Recommended Size
& Dimensions
Recommended
Orientation
Number of
Units Per
Population
Service
Radius
Location Notes
Badminton
1,620 sq. ft.
Single – 17' x 44'
Doubles - 20' x 44' with
5' unobstructed areas
on all sides
Long axis northsouth
1 per 5,000
¼ - ½ mile
Basketball:
- Youth
- High School
- Collegiate
2,400 - 3,036 sq. ft.
5,040 - 7,280 sq. ft.
5,600 - 7,980 sq. ft.
46' - 50' x 84'
50' x 84'
50' x 94'
with 5' unobstructed
space on all sides
1 per 5,000
¼ - ½ mile
Handball
(3 or 4 wall)
800 sq. ft. for 4-wall
1,000 for 3-wall
20'x40' - Minimum of
10' to rear of 3' wall
court. Minimum 20'
overhead clearance.
Long axis northsouth. Front wall
at north end.
1 per 20,000
15 - 30
minute
travel time
4 - wall usually
indoor as part or
multi-purpose
facility. 3 - wall
usually outdoor in
park or school
setting.
Ice Hockey
22,000 sq. ft.
including support
area
Rink 85'x200' (min. 85'
x 185'). Additional
5,000 sq. ft. support
area.
Long axis northsouth if outdoor
Indoor- 1 per
100,000.
½ - 1 hour
travel time
Climate important
consideration
affecting number of
units. Best as part of
multi-purpose
facility.
36'x78'. 12' clearance
on both sides. 21'
clearance on both
ends
¼ - ½ mile
Climate important
consideration
affecting number of
units. Best as part of
multi-purpose
facility.
30'x60'. Min. 6'
clearance on all sides.
½ - 1 mile
Same as other court
activities. (e.g.,
badminton,
basketball, etc.)
Tennis
Min. 7,200 sq. ft.
single court (2 acres
for complex)
Volleyball
Min. 4,000 sq. ft.
Outdoordepends on
climate.
Indoor-1 per
100,000.
Outdoordepends on
climate. 1 per
2,000.
72
1 court per
5,000
Usually school,
recreation center, or
church facility. Safe
walking or bike
access
Same as
badminton. Outdoor
courts in
neighborhood and
community parks,
plus active
recreation areas in
other park settings.
Activity/
Facility
Baseball:
- Official
Recommended
Space
Requirements
3.0 - 3.85 acres
minimum
Number of
Units Per
Population
Recommended Size
& Dimensions
Recommended
Orientation
Baselines-90'
Pitching distance-60½’
Foul lines - min. 320'
Center field - 400+
Locate home
plate so pitcher
throwing across
sun and batter
not facing it. Line
from home plate
through pitcher’s
mound run eastnorth-east.
1 per 5,000
Baseline-60'
Pitching distance-46'
Foul lines - 200'
Center field - 200' 250'
Service
Radius
¼ - ½ mile
Lighted - 1 per
30,000
Location Notes
Part of
neighborhood
complex.
Lighted fields part of
community complex.
- Little League
1.2 acres minimum
Field Hockey
1.5 acres minimum
180' x 300' with a
minimum of 10'
Fall season-long
axis northwest to
southeast. For
long periods,
north to south.
1 per 20,000
15 - 30
minutes
travel time
Usually part of
baseball, football,
soccer complex in
community park or
adjacent to high
school.
Football
1.5 acres minimum
160' x 360' with a
minimum of 6'
Same as field
hockey
1 per 20,000
15 - 30
minutes
travel time
Usually part of
baseball, football,
soccer complex in
community park or
adjacent to high
school.
Soccer
1.7 to 2.1 acres
195' to 225' x 330' to
360' with a 10'
minimum clearance on
all sides.
Same as field
hockey.
1 per 10,000
1 - 2 miles
Number of units
depends on
popularity. Youth
soccer on smaller
fields adjacent to
schools or
neighborhood parks.
Golf - Driving
Range
13.5 acres for
minimum of 25 tees
900' x 690' wide. Add
12' width for each
additional tee.
Long axis
southwest northeast with
golfer driving
toward northeast.
1 per 50,000
30 minutes
travel time
Part of golf course
complex. As a
separate unit, may
be privately
operated.
¼ Mile
Running Track
4.3 acres
Overall width-276'
Length-600'
Track width for 8 to 4
lanes 32'.
Long axis in
sector front north
to south to northwest-south-east
with finish line at
northerly end.
1 per 20,000
15 - 30
minutes
travel time
Usually part of high
school, or in
community park
complex in
combination with
football, soccer, etc.
Softball
1.5-2.0 acres
Baselines-60'
Pitching distance-46'
(men), 40' (women).
Fast pitch field radius
from plate-225'
between foul lines.
Slow pitch-275' (men)
250' (women)
Same as
baseball.
1 per 5,000 (if
also used for
youth baseball)
¼ - ½ mile
Slight difference in
dimensions for 16"
slow pitch. May
also be used for
youth baseball.
Multiple
Recreation
Court
(basketball,
volleyball, or
tennis)
9,840 sq. ft.
120' x 80'
Long axis of
courts with
primary use is
north-south
1 per 10,000
1 - 2 miles.
73
Activity/
Facility
Recommended
Space
Requirements
Recommended Size
& Dimensions
Recommended
Orientation
Number of
Units Per
Population
Service
Radius
Location Notes
Trails
N/A
Well defined head,
maximum 10 foot
width, maximum
average grade 5% not
to exceed 15%.
Capacity rural trails 40 hikers/day/mile.
Urban trails - 90
hikers/day/mile.
N/A
1 system per
region
N/A
Archery Range
Minimum 0.65 acre
300' length x minimum
10' wide between
targets.
Roped clear space on
sides or range
minimum of 30' clear
space behind targets
minimum of 90'x45'
with bunker.
Archer facing
north + or - 45
degrees
1 per 50,000
30 minutes
travel time
Part of a regional or
metro park complex.
Combination
Skeet & Trap
Field (8
stations)
Minimum 30 acres
All walks and
structures occur within
an area approx. 130'
wide by 115' deep.
Minimum cleared area
is contained within two
superimposed
segments with 100
yard radii (4 acres).
Shot-fall danger zone
is contained within two
superimposed
segments with 300
yard radii (36 acres).
Center line of
length runs
northeastsouthwest with
shooter facing
northeast.
1 per 50,000
30 minutes
travel time
Part of regional or
metro park complex.
50-60 acres
Average length - 600 2,700 yds.
Majority of holes
in north-south
axis.
½ to 1
hour travel
time.
9 hole course can
accommodate 350
people per day
- 9-hole
standard
Minimum 50 acres
Average length-2,250
yds.
1 per 25,000
- 18-hole
standard
Minimum 110A
Average length-6,500
yds.
1 per 50,000
Golf
- par 3 (18
hole)
74
18-hole course can
accommodate 500
to 550 people per
day
Course may be
located in
community or district
park, but should not
be over 20 miles
from population
center
Activity/
Facility
Swimming
Pools
Recommended
Space
Requirements
Varies on size of pool
and amenities.
Usually 1 to 2 acre
site.
Recommended Size
& Dimensions
Recommended
Orientation
Number of
Units Per
Population
Teaching-minimum of
25 x 45 yards. Even
depth of 3 to 4 ft.
None, although
care must be
taken in sitting of
lifeguard stations
in relation to
afternoon swim.
1 per 20,000
(pools should
accommodate
3% to 5% of
total population
at a time.)
Competitive-minimum
of 25m x 16m.
Minimum of 27 sq. ft.
of water surface per
swimmer. Ratios of 2:1
deck vs. water.
75
Service
Radius
15 to 30
minutes
travel time.
Location Notes
Pools for general
community use
should be planned
for teaching,
competitive, and
recreational
purposes with
enough depth
(3.4m) to
accommodate 1m
and 3m diving
boards. Located in
community park or
school site.
VIII. PUBLIC INPUT PROCESS
The viability of any recreation plan is the base upon which it is derived. In
the initial stages of the plan formation, public input was requested by
several means.
Unlike a first time plan, the 2010 Township plan is based on plans that
were established in 1978, 1986, 1992, 1999 and updated in
2005.Therefore substantial public input was gained during the previous
plans and most importantly during the implementation stages of these
plans since 1978 and particularly over the last 10 years.
In addition direct notification to the residents was sought through various
groups to include the Homeowner Associations in the Township. The
Associations represent an entire given subdivision and therefore this
process is all inclusive. Please see a copy of a letter that was sent to the
Homeowner Associations representing the various subdivisions in the
Township. The intent was to give them notice that we are starting the
update process. We asked that they tell us what they think is working with
recreation and recreation planning in the community, what is not working
and what other activities they think should be provided in the Township.
Beyond the above we are now working very closely with the several
baseball/softball groups. They include Greater Canton Youth
Baseball/Softball Association, Plymouth Canton Little League, and Our
Lady of Good Counsel.
Part of the improvement plan for the Township Park calls for the
installation of new lights for the three existing lighted ball diamonds and
lighting for the current unlighted field. We have been dialoging with the
property owners to the north. We have adjusted plans to address their
concerns. Originally a building proposed for a nature center was to be
located within a close proximity of their west property line. Based on input
from them the building was relocated on the Master Plan to still meet our
needs but reduce the visual impact on the neighbors.
Beyond the process described above a public meeting was held on
September 22, 2010 from 4:00 till 7:30 in the evening to allow the public a
final opportunity to provide individual comments regarding the proposed
Recreation Plan (see exhibits 6 & 7.) It is often easier to respond to
something concrete. To that end we provided a very rough draft of the
proposed Recreation Plan for the general public to look at and help spur
public comment during the revision process of the Recreation and Open
Space Plan. On September 9, 2010, a “rough draft” copy of the
Community Park, Recreation, Open Space and Greenway Plan was
76
placed at the library, counter of the Clerk’s office, Treasurer’s office,
Building Department, Community Development Department and DPW
Department (see exhibits 4 & 5) and was placed on the Township web
site. The purpose as stated above was to spur public input into the
process as it was occurring.
Many times the public hearing process becomes a discussion of issues
among those who prepared the plan only.
77
IX. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES OF PLAN
The introduction section discussed the various functions of open space and
the elements which dictate the need for a sound current “Community Park,
Recreation, Open Space and Greenway Plan.” It is intended that this section
will review the method of approach of the plan and re-establish or modify the
general goals of the recreation plan.
The Township completed a recreation and open space plan in 1977, adding
to it in 1978 and updating it with revised plans in 1986, 1992, 1999 and 2005.
The current 2010 plan is a full comprehensive appraisal of recreation and
open space planning in the Township with short range and long range goals.
The methodology proposed to establish the 2010 plan is simple and
consistent with the approach used in 2005. The plan will be reviewed and
adopted by the Board of Trustees after public hearing under the direction of
Township Supervisor Richard Reaume and with assistance from Mr. James
D. Anulewicz, Director of Public Services and Ms. Jana Pritchard. The
process will include the following:
1.
Update current physical features, administrative structure, population,
inventory of public and private recreation.
2.
Review the previous established general recreation standards and
determine the applicability to the Township.
3.
Determine if any of the variables used as a foundation of the plan have
changed.
4.
Evaluate general goals and objectives as found in the 2005 Plan.
5.
Reaffirm or modify general goals and objectives which have not yet
been achieved and establish additional goals and implementation
tasks.
6.
Develop short term and long term action program based on the update
and analysis.
7.
Measure the degree of completion.
8.
Determine if the implementation portion of the plan is working
effectively and if not, what adjustments should be made.
Goals of the Recreation Plan
Based on the facts previously presented and the planning goals established
by the community in the Township Comprehensive Development Plan, it is
78
the intent of this Community Park, Recreation, Open Space and Greenway
Plan to insure that adequate open space is provided within the Charter
Township of Plymouth to:
1.
Continue to maintain the natural features of the Township which are
significant to its previous and existing quality and image.
2.
Maintain and improve the aesthetic quality of the Township.
3.
Continue to recognize and preserve the natural drainage systems
within the Township and allow for sound economical methods of
handling storm water run-off and water quality.
4.
Continue ordinances that require establishing and maintaining storm
water detention areas to reduce potential negative impacts on down
stream areas and water quality.
5.
Continue to develop a spatial and physical definition of the community
and encourage a sense of order, identity and open space continuity by
keeping the Zoning Ordinance up to date and having the Planning
Commission make sure that all proposals adequately address these
issues.
6.
Make sure that open space areas that have been retained to provide
for the spatial and physical definition of the community, and encourage
a sense of order, identity and open space continuity, are fully
maintained and enhanced.
7.
Provide for the recreation needs of all segments of the existing and
future population in locations which will insure that the recreation areas
and facilities are accessible to the population.
79
X. GENERAL RECREATION LAND NEEDS VS.
INVENTORY
General Recreation Needs Based On Type of Facility
The objective of this portion of the plan is to establish the general recreation
needs of the Township for each category of recreation facilities based on the
standards established. The evaluation will consider current and projected
population figures. The purpose of this evaluation is to permit some insight
into previous needs, current needs, and future needs of the Township for
recreation facilities. It should also be noted that the figures arrived at will
illustrate gross acreage needs for the above referenced time frames and do
not reflect conditions peculiar to the individual planning units in the Township.
It is intended that the gross figures then can be used as a measuring stick to
determine the general existing and future needs and/or deficiencies in the
various categories without regard to geographical distribution. This particular
aspect will be evaluated in the analysis of the individual planning units
update.
In 1990 the Township population was 23,648. Over the next 10 years the
population increased an estimated 18% to 27,798, (approximately 4,150
people). The projected population for 2035 is 29,915, an estimated 7.6%
(approximately 2,117 people) greater than 2000. This should represent
ultimate development. The following represents a comparison of the
composite of the population in 1990, 2000 and estimated 2035.
TABLE 8
POPULATION BY AGE
1990
Census
Age Group
2035
Forecast
SEMCOG
2000
Census
Age 0-4
1,433
(6%)
1,668
(6%)
2,001
(6%)
Age 5-17
3,960
(17%)
4,627
(17%)
4,967
(17%)
Age 18-34
5,723
(24%)
5,305
(19%)
5,717
(19%)
Age 35-64
10,197 (43%)
12,778
(46%)
10,754 (36%)
Age 65+
2,335
3,420
(12%)
6,476
Total
23,648
(10%)
27,798 (+18%)
(22%)
29,915
The total population increased 18% from 1990 to 2000. The under 5 category
remains stable as a percentage of total population while the age groups
comprising the 5 to 34 years have decreased slightly. The groups 35 to 64,
and 65 and over both increased slightly with the greatest increase expected
for 2035 to be 65 and over.
80
The following table reflects the gross recreation needs for the Township
based on the recreation standards established and the appropriate
population.
TABLE 9
RECREATION NEEDS BASED ON POPULATION
1990, 2000 AND 2030
1990 Recreation
Needs Population
23,648
2000Recreation
Needs Population
27,798
2030 Recreation
Needs Population
33,714
0*
0*
0*
Playground (2.00 acres)
48 +/- acres
56 +/- acres
68 +/- acres
Neighborhood Park (1.75 acres)
42 +/- acres
49 +/- acres
60 +/- acres
Playfield (1.25 acres)
30 +/- acres
35 +/- acres
43 +/- acres
Major Park (5.00 Acres)
120 +/- acres
140 +/- acres
170 +/- acres
Area Required per 1,000 Gross
Population
Play Area*
* Due to the size of residential lots found in the Township this category determined not to be
necessary. It should however be noted that provisions should be made in mobile home parks
and considered during the design of major park and/or neighborhood parks.
TABLE 10
RECREATION NEEDS BASED ON POPULATION
1990, 2000 AND 2035
Area Required per 1,000 Gross
Population
1990 Recreation
Needs Population
23,648
2000 Recreation
Needs Population
27,789
2035 Recreation
Needs population
29,915
Play Area
0*
0*
0*
Playground (2.00 acres)
48 +/- acres
56 +/- acres
60 +/- acres
Neighborhood Park (1.75 acres)
42 +/- acres
49 +/- acres
52 +/- acres
Playfield (1.25 acres)
30 +/- acres
35 +/- acres
37 +/- acres
Major Park (5.00 Acres)
120 +/- acres
140 +/- acres
150 +/- acres
* Due to the size of residential lots found in the Township this category determined not to be
necessary. It should however be noted that provisions should be made in mobile home parks
and considered during the design of major park and/or neighborhood parks.
As can be seen by comparing the projected requirements based on population,
minimum modification is predicted between the period 2030 and 2035.
General Recreation Needs VS. Inventory
This section will review the general recreation land needs as determined by the
adopted recreation standards with the lands presently in public ownership
and/or private ownership to determine the gross deficiency. It is not the intent of
this section to review the data previously brought out in the inventory in regards
to “environmental” deficiency. This area will be dealt with in the Analysis and
Recommendation Section related to each individual planning unit.
81
1.
Gross Land Need
Due to the minimum lot size requirements in Plymouth Township, in
particular the required rear yard area, the play area/mini-park category
is not considered to be an immediate or future deficiency. Care should
however be taken when reviewing mobile home and multiple-family
developments to insure that adequate provisions are made for these
facilities. This position does not preclude incorporation of these types
of facilities in the neighborhood parks and major park areas; indeed,
these facilities should be considered an important element in the total
development of neighborhood and major parks. Following is a
summary of calculated land needs:
TABLE 11
NEEDED LAND FOR PLAYGROUNDS AND NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS
Need
1990
2000
Population:
23,648
27,789
2035
29,915
Land Needs:
90+/- acres
105+/- acres
112+/- acres
Year:
TABLE 12
PLAYGROUND & NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS
Area Exclusive of
Building & Parking
Facility
Site 4.2 - Pioneer Middle School
9.5+ acres
Site 4.3 - Isbister Elementary
6.0+ acres
Site 4.4 - Fiegel Elementary
5.5+ acres
Site 4.5 - Allen Elementary
9.0+ acres
Site 4.6 - Farrand Elementary
6.5+ acres
Site 4.8 - West Middle School
10.0+ acres
Site 4.9 - Bird Elementary
7.0+ acres
Site 6.12 - Brentwood Park
1.47+ acres
Site 6.16 - Fire Station 2
1.0+ acres
Site 6.17 - Lake Pointe Soccer Park
13.5+ acres
Site 7.22 - Miller Family Property
3.5+ acres
Site 8.24 - Trailwood No. 2 & 3
19.8+ acres
Site 8.25 - Walnut Creek
8.0+ acres
Site 8.26 - Colony Farm
28.8+ acres
Site 8.27 - Westbriar No. 1
3.86+ acres
Site 8.28 - Westbriar No. 2
6.0+ acres
82
Facility
Site 8.29 - Ridgewood Hills Sub.
Area Exclusive of
Building & Parking
13.0+ acres
Site 8.30 - Quail Run & Ridgewood Hills West
12.7+ acres
Site 8.31 - Pine Ridge
8.5+ acres
Site 8.32 - Plymouth Commons
13.2+ acres
Site 8.33 - Deer Creek & Hunters Creek
18.7+ acres
Site 8.34 - Fox Point
7.4+ acres
Site 8.35 - Heather Hills Sub 1/Highlands
Condos
9.0 acres
Site 8.36 - Beacon Meadows
12.1+ acres
Site 8.37 - Arboritium
3.15+ acres
Site 8.38 - Plymouth Hills
54.9+ acres
Site 8.39 - Oakhaven
26.5+ acres
Site 8.40 - Rolling Oaks
12.48 + acres
Site 8.41 - Andover Lakes
7.5 + acres
Site 8.42 - Huntington Park
10.86+ acres
Site 8.43 - Country Acres (all phases)
94.16 + acres
Site 8.44 - Woodlore South
8.86 + acres
Site 8.45 - Trillium Woods
1.09+ acres
Site 8.47 – Woodlore North
17.37+ acres
8.5 + acres
Site 8.48 – Woodland Pond Condos
TOTAL
453.47+ acres
The above figures would indicate that the gross acreage currently
provided in Plymouth Township well exceeds current and future
population needs for the community. It should be noted that based on
the 1986 and 1992 plans, an additional 225.18+ acres of open
space/recreation land was incorporated into the community by way of
the residential unit development or cluster housing concept. This
places the land within the immediate area of the neighborhood served
and leaves direction of development in the hands of the residents as
represented by a homeowners association. This category has been
significantly enhanced.
In the prior plan, there was a substantial dependence on developing
school properties. If we exclude the school properties, 53.50+ acres
would be deleted bringing the total to 399.97 acres, still exceeding the
standards. It is important to bring out the point that this represents
gross land needs. For the most part the land will meet the required
geographic location as well as environmental factors. There are areas
which need to be evaluated further during the individual planning unit
83
analysis. They are primarily located in the eastern portion of the
Township where open space was not developed in conjunction with the
residential projects and the school sites may need environmental
enhancement. In general, school sites 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6, 4.8 and
4.9 should be given primary consideration due to the lack of private
parks within a close proximity of the residential subdivisions.
The Township should continue to encourage the use of the Residential
Unit Development and Cluster Housing option. These development
techniques will continue to satisfy the playground and neighborhood
recreation demands of the Township in a manner which keeps the
direction and control of the neighborhood parks in the hands of
the users. The Township should also work very closely with the
various homeowners associations and the School District to provide
technical assistance and form joint programs that make the best use of
tax payers’ monies.
2.
Playfields
At present, the Township recreation site provides approximately 4.5+
acres for structured sports. The development of this area at present
limits the area to little league baseball or equivalent age. The
remainder of the structured athletic activities are dependent on the
high school complex and the other elementary and middle school sites.
It would appear that the land is available; however, several factors
must be kept in mind. First, the school complex serves two major
schools and encompasses several other communities besides
Plymouth Township. It would appear that the needs of this particular
category are not being fully met. It is strongly recommended that
further investigation be conducted with the Plymouth baseball league,
soccer league and football league regarding this matter in a more
detailed manner than is permitted by the scope of this particular report.
Acquisition of a site 75 to 80 acres with the physical features
suitable for such intense use should be considered. The
adaptability of the existing recreation site for additional sports
fields is extremely limited.
Much progress has been made over the last 5 year period in regards to
working with the various sports groups to define current and
anticipated needs.
3.
Major Park
The inventory indicates just under 77+ acres of land is available within
the Township major park classification exclusive of the golf course. It
would appear that this category is a major deficiency at present and
84
will increase in the future. The fact that the Middle Rouge Parkway
runs through the eastern portion of the Township must be considered
when reviewing this particular category. Approximately 274 + acres are
presently under Wayne County jurisdiction for this regional parkway
within Plymouth Township.
Additional land acquisition for a major park beyond the current location
should be considered. The 17 acre site to the north of the park was
pursued and the wooded portion was obtained by the Township
without any cost to the Township. This portion of the park should be
tied into the main park system. The past 5 year period was an active
period seeing numerous improvements to this major park.
Improvements included making the fishing barrier-free accessible and
better access through the general park. Seniors request for a walk
through the park’s environment was addressed. The park and the
creek afford an opportunity to educate the general public about water
quality and creek side development. This opportunity was seized and
an identification system was incorporated along the path system. This
program was so successful that the Township and the schools teamed
together to produce a book and classroom program incorporating this
outdoor function.
4.
Special Uses
The Plymouth Township Golf Course is part of the municipal recreation
complex. It is significant from several standpoints. This course offers
the recreation opportunity of golf for the residents of the Township as
well as neighboring communities, brings to the Township a substantial
open space area, maintains long viewing vistas characteristics of the
Township prior to development, and brings in income which can be
used to maintain and expand general recreation for the Township. A
major deficiency exists with the golf course. The golf course has a very
tight layout which has parallel fairways adjacent to each other with in
some cases little if any separation. The vacant triangle formed by Beck
Road, Ann Arbor Trail, and the vacated Powell Road should be
incorporated into the course layout. This would require adjustment to
several holes. The relocation of a more permanent club house should
be a consideration. A more permanent clubhouse should be located so
as to permit some long views from the clubhouse. The viability of this
course should be evaluated at a minimum every three to four years.
85
XI. ANALYSIS AND RECOMMENDATIONS BY
PLANNING UNITS
Unit 1
The majority of this planning unit has been master planned and developed in
accordance with the recommendation of the 1992 plan. The RUD Residential
Development Option was the method used to develop the property. This
method allowed the retention of the open space and swale areas. An outdoor
pool was developed to service this approximately 1 square mile residential
area. The pool is owned and operated by the residents by way of an
association.
Recommendation

No specific land acquisition needs.

Continue to monitor to make sure the development stays in tune with the
RUD approval and assist association when needed.
Unit 2
This area has very few residents now, and will have very few when fully
developed. It would under normal conditions be tied to Unit 1, but is
surrounded by projected 120 ft. roadways which isolates it. Its low projected
density limits its public recreation needs.
Recommendation

No action necessary.
Unit 3
The present needs of this unit have been satisfied by the private park of
Ridgewood Hills Subdivision. The future needs, based on the existing
projected land use plan, will remain limited. The unit does contain existing
natural features; wooded areas and swale areas. Development of Ridgewood
Hills Subdivision was approved conditioned to the RUD requests maintaining
the necessary wooded and swale areas. This concept should be continued.
Recommendation

No action is necessary.
Unit 4
A large portion of this unit has been developed under the Residential Unit
Development option of the Township, which contains sufficient park land to
serve the development. The remaining area was approved under a consent
judgment, which maintained open space and recreation area for local
residents. Proper evaluation was completed consistent with previous
recreation plans. At present no structured play areas have been provided in
86
the open space areas; however, the framework for such development is
available when and if the neighborhood unit feels the need for such activities.
The remaining properties contain swale areas and some limited wood areas.
Recommendation
 No action necessary.
Unit 5
This unit is small compared to most planning units in the Township. This unit
is somewhat unique in that it is triangular in shape, formed by 3 major roads.
It is surrounded by all residential properties except for the park and golf
course which is northeast of the unit. A substantial topographic change
occurs within the planning unit. The low point is at the intersection of Ann
Arbor Road and Ann Arbor Trail. The highest point is at the intersection of
Ann Arbor Trail and Beck Road. This unit could be a continual planning
problem for the community with requests for commercial uses or higher
densities because of the size and surrounding roads.
Recommendation

Make sure the densities called out for this area remain low. No specific
recreation action will be required for this area.
Unit 6
This area was previously created because of the extension of Powell Road.
This part of the recreation complex – see Planning Unit 22 for specifics, in
particular the removal of vacated Powell Road which extends from Beck Road
to the clubhouse.
Unit 7
Present
Unit 7 is one of the three most populated neighborhoods in the Township. Its
current playground and neighborhood park needs seen to be met in terms of
acreage and service area, but there are problems to be faced.
Playgrounds
The only existing playground in the neighborhood is at West Middle School
and while it is quite large, its service area encompasses only about 1/4 of the
unit because of its location in the extreme northeast corner of the
neighborhood. Other playgrounds, (Recreation Park, Pioneer and Isbister
Schools) service areas overlap Unit 7, but in order to reach them young
children would have to cross potentially busy, high-speed roads.
87
Neighborhood Parks
While the open space at West School has the potential to serve the needs of
a neighborhood park also, it presently does not provide sufficient
environmental and visual amenities to be considered as a neighborhood park.
Extensive landscape development would have to be undertaken in this area
to bring it to the point of being a passive recreational and visual asset to the
neighborhood. The Township Recreation Park could serve this need well
except for the barrier of Ann Arbor Trail. Special care should be taken to
preserve and enhance the character of Byron Creek.
Trailwood No. 2 and Trailwood No. 3 have sufficient areas and amenities for
use as a neighborhood park. At this time no structured play areas have been
incorporated into the private park areas; however, the potential for such
development is present if the need is determined by the Subdivision
Association.
Recommendations

Assist Trailwood homeowner groups if it is determined by them that
structured play areas are desired.

Preserve and enhance swale areas in the unit.

Work with the School District to realize the potential of the West School
site as a passive recreational, visual and environmental asset to the
neighborhood by providing technical assistance. The Township needs to
be aggressive in pursuing this aspect. If coordinated properly, this could
be a very effective use of tax dollars, and could be a win-win for the school
district and Plymouth Township. The issue should be how; not why or why
not.
Unit 8
Substantially the western segment of this planning unit is well served.
Westbriar 1, Westbriar 2, Arboretum, and the new Woodlore South each have
a network of open space areas to service the individual residential
developments. Arboretum contains 5 acres of untimbered Beech and Maple
woods designated as a climax forest by Michigan State University. The
remainder of the planning unit has sufficient acreage available to service it
with Pioneer and Isbister Schools. Both of these areas are however,
developed only for playground use. This last 5 year period the School District
and the Township joined together to create a Master Plan and then jointly
constructed a first phase of the Master Plan. This project has set the tone for
all other sites.
In order for these schools sites to be considered neighborhood parks, they
will have to be improved with plantings and other landscape features to
increase the quality of the environment. Westbriar 1, Westbriar 2, Arboritium,
88
and Woodlore South were developed under the RUD and cluster housing
options thus retaining some of the key natural aspects of the site which
affords a framework for recreation opportunities for the local neighborhood.
Recommendations

Continue to build on the partnership that has been established with the
school district and parent/teacher groups. This effort should be used to
see the further develop of the environmental quality of Pioneer and
Isbister Schools. Primary emphasis should be placed on site and
environmental enhancement because of the lack of private open space in
the eastern portion of the unit.
Unit 9
Unit 9 is lacking totally in regard to availability of recreation land within the
planning unit. This area is one of the most densely developed areas in the
Township. It’s land has all been developed therefore no land is available for
recreation development.
Recommendation

No action at this time. Creation of any open space or recreation land
would require acquisition of developed land and would therefore be very
costly. This aspect should however, be recognized in all facets of the
planning process. Any opportunity to increase passive or active recreation
opportunities in a cost effective manner should be perused.
Unit 10
Present needs in this unit are small; however, the need may increase in the
future. Unit 10 falls outside the service areas of all other recreation areas and
is surrounded by major thoroughfare roads. The small park located near
Morrison Street has poor visibility and access. The relationship of the park to
the Tonquish Creek with its steep banks and the existing size of the park
make it unsuitable for tot lot activities without major improvements. These
improvements would be difficult to justify without further land acquisition.
Recommendations

Look at vacation of park and work toward reverting the property back to
private ownership of adjacent landowners.
Unit 11
Recommendation

Primarily industrial therefore, no action required. Existing Township site
should be sold to private sector and developed as commercial/industrial.
89
Unit 12
Most of this planning unit is industrial. Its small residential area should be
considered with Unit 10.
Recommendations

No action required.
Unit 13
Unit 13 has an existing recreation need which has not been met and which
may be expected to increase with future development in accordance with the
existing projected land use plan. Most of the neighborhood is within the
service area of Allen School and the Middle Rouge Parkway. Access to both
areas would have to be made by crossing major thoroughfare roads or
movement along such roadways without adequate pedestrian area provided.
Recommendations

Continue to monitor this particular area and insure that adequate open
space and structured play areas are required during the site plan review
process, if the area is to be developed for any residential use. MDEQ must
give a write-off prior to any consideration for residential development given
the history of the large vacant site near to the railroad tracks.

Improve the pedestrian circulation in the area by installing sidewalks in the
right-of-way linking the neighborhood with Middle Rouge Parkway.

Insure that any future development in particular cluster, multiple, etc.,
incorporate recreation land areas.

This planning unit could be the subject of a great deal of development in
the next 2 to 3 years; New Township Hall, continuation of new shopping
center and gathering area, and residential complex west of Gold Arbor
Road. These areas should be planned as a unit, linked together with
pedestrian systems and high quality architecture.
Unit 14
Most of the unit is industrial with a small residential area located near Ann
Arbor Road.
Recommendation

No action required.
Unit 15
Unit 15 is within the service area of Allen School and the Middle Rouge
Parkway. These facilities are adequate in size to serve the existing and future
needs of the neighborhood; however, access is a problem and the present
environmental deficiency in the Allen School property are major deterrents. A
90
3.5 + acre piece of land sits at the triangle formed by Ann Arbor Trail,
Ferguson Street, and I-275. This piece of land was donated to the Township
by Peter and Ann Miller. The land was developed as a neighborhood park for
this planning unit.
Recommendations

Continue to improve pedestrian access to Middle Rouge Parkway along
existing right-of-way.

Work with Wayne County Road Commission to provide pedestrian access
to the park by way of one of the existing street stubs located along the
parkway.

Maintain and continue to improve Miller Family Park.
Unit 16
Unit 16 is projected as commercial and multiple family residential. Adequate
open space area to include developed structured play areas should be
required as part of any multiple family development.
Recommendation

Insure that adequate open space and structured play areas are
incorporated in any new residential development during the Site Plan
Review process.
Unit 17
Unit 17 is fully developed without any existing recreation areas or vacant
properties remaining in the planning unit. This unit is separated from Allen
School and Miller Family Park by the expressway. Improved pedestrian
circulation to the Middle Route Parkway, Miller Family Park and Allen School
would improve the lack of immediate park area.
Recommendation

Work with neighborhood groups to determine need and demand for better
access to Middle Rouge Parkway.
Unit 18
Since this unit is heavily built up and cut off from others by major roads and
highways, Fiegel School will have to serve both as playground (for which it is
well suited) and as a neighborhood park.
Recommendations

Continue to work with the school district to develop Fiegel School site by
incorporating plantings and other quality neighborhood park items.

Consider widening easements into the school for better neighborhood
contact.
91
Unit 19
The projected population of this unit based on the existing projected land use
plan does not warrant the need for a public neighborhood recreation site. The
unit does contain existing wood lots, swale areas, and wetlands.
Recommendation

Work with the association to retain and enhance features that have been
incorporated into the developments. This should also address the issue of
water quality as it relates to any wetlands.
Unit 20
The projected population of this unit based on the existing projected land use
plan does not warrant the need for public neighborhood recreation site. The
unit does contain existing wood lots and swale areas. A large church is also
located within this unit.
Recommendation

During development phase investigate the wooded and swale areas to
determine quality and significance of the features and a policy
determination made as to the best method of retaining these features.

Continue to work with the existing church and adjacent subdivisions to
enhance potential recreation development for the properties.
Unit 21
There are no existing recreation demands for the planning unit. The need for
public recreation in this unit will not be a prime concern at ultimate
development based on the existing projected land use plan. The Plymouth
Community School District owns property at the southwest corner of this
planning unit which is projected for an elementary and middle school. This
unit contains existing wooded areas and swale areas. The school site
contains what has become know as the Miller Woods. This wooded area has
been determined to be of special value based on the vegetation found in the
woodlot. According to experts form the University of Michigan, the woodlot
has significant value and has been used by the University as a field
classroom. The Township should work closely with the School District to
ensure protection and preservation of this important natural resource area. If
the School District determines there will not be a need for the property and
finds it to be surplus property the Township should pursue the purchase of the
property.
Recommendations

Coordinate with the Plymouth School District regarding the development
of the school property in the southwest corner of the planning unit. Further
the Township should coordinate with the school district to ensure
protection and preservation of the Miller Woods area. Should the District
92
determine that the site would be surplus and offer it for sale the Township
should make every effort to retain it for the Township major park category.

In depth investigation should be made of the other wooded and swale
areas of the unit during the development phase to determine quality and
significance of the feature and a policy determination made as to the best
method of retaining these features.
Unit 22
Because the Township Recreation Park is in the neighborhood, neighborhood
recreation needs are well satisfied. This resource is valuable to the
neighborhood. Therefore, special attention should be given to maintaining
contact with the park through a well-conceived pedestrian system. The
Township Park is centrally located in the Township. The Rouge Parkway
system should be considered an asset and if coordination with the County is
pursued, would provide valuable recreation opportunities for Township
Residents. The need for an additional major park, particularly providing
additional athletic fields should be pursued. The acreage exclusive of the golf
course was increased within the past 10 year period. The property to the
north of the recreation site was undeveloped and contained swale areas and
a valuable Beech forest. The total acreage north was 17 + acres. The
Township was able to work with the school district and a developer to permit
the development of the unwooded area of the site. This permitted dollars to
be brought into the school district. The 17 + acre portion that contained the
woods was then donated to the Township and has since been incorporated
into the Township Park. Substantial work has been completed at the park
during the last 5 year period: a barrier-free accessible fishing dock was
constructed, better access through the general park was created, a walk
system through the park’s environment, completion and success of a
Sprayscape, and construction of a new maintenance building for the park and
golf course.
Recommendations
Specific improvements to this planning unit should be concentrated on the
park and golf course.
Park: Improved lighting for the ball diamonds should be considered, tree
planting program to visually separate the 4 diamonds, revamp and improve
interior of the park pavilion, install bridge and path system to better facilitate
handicapped access direct from the pavilion, rebuild and improve park shelter
no. 2 at the park, install two sand volley ball courts in an area northeast of the
sprayscape, construct a second Township pavilion at the top of the sled hill.
Interpretive nature center.
Golf Course: The Township responded to the need for a new clubhouse with
a short-term building which helped keep it an active and heavily used facility.
A more permanent clubhouse should be located so as to permit some long
93
views from the clubhouse. The golf course has a very tight layout which has
parallel fairways adjacent to each other with in some cases little if any
separation. The vacant triangle formed by Beck Road, Ann Arbor Trail, and
the vacated Powell Road should be incorporated into the course layout. This
would require adjustment to several holes. However, action was not taken to
relocate the Powell Road entry and incorporate the fallow land of the triangle
formed by Ann Arbor Trail, Beck Road, and vacated Powell Road. This
relocation of the entry and incorporation of the triangle should run $400,000 to
$500,000. This will include relocation of several holes, utilization of vacant
property as part of the golf course, deletion of the current long and dirt road
leading to the clubhouse and the establishment of a new entry off of Ann
Arbor Trail. The relocation of a more permanent club house should be a
consideration. A determination should be made regarding the stability of the
golf course.
Unit 23
Recommendation

No action required
Unit 24
Recommendation

No action required.
Unit 25
The majority of the future population of Unit 25 will be in the mobile home
parks. Plans have been approved which identify a substantial amount of
private park area which should prove to satisfy the needs of this planning unit.
The remaining portion of the unit will be very low density residential and the
northern segment as Industrial, High Tech.
Recommendation

No further action required at this time.
Unit 26
Recommendation

No action required.
Unit 27
Recommendation

No action required.
94
Unit 28
The majority of this unit has been developed as low density residential and a
church at its most easterly limits. The development covers the majority of this
planning unit. The development provides for a substantial amount of private
open space.
Recommendation

No action required at this time.
Unit 29
Recommendation
 No action required based on current and projected high tech land uses for
the planning unit.
Unit 30
Recommendation
 No action required based on current and projected industrial/high tech
land uses for the planning unit.
Unit 31
Recommendation
 No action required based on current and projected industrial/high tech
land uses for the planning unit.
Unit 32
Recommendation
 No action required based on current and projected high tech land uses for
the planning unit.
Unit 33
A substantial portion of this planning unit has been developed. Beacon
Meadows Subdivision and Eaton Estates was developed providing for 12.1 +
acres of private park. This area includes a small lake.
Recommendations
 No further action at this time. Any additional development should be under
the Residential Unit Development or Cluster Housing Option.
Unit 34
Recommendation
 No action required.
95
Unit 35
Recommendation
 No action required based on existing and projected industrial uses for the
planning unit.
Unit 36
Recommendation
 Existing St. John’s privately owned public golf course. The Archdioceses
continues to work with the Township regarding this property. They have
and continue to move toward a full service conference center with golf
course, driving range, practice sand pits, and conference rooms with an
eight story hotel. No further action required at this time.
Unit 37
Recommendation
 No action required based on existing and projected industrial land uses for
the planning unit.
Unit 38
Recommendation
 No action required based on the size and uses of the planning unit.
Unit 39
A 1.47 acre park is located on Robinwood Street (Site 6.12). This park has
been improved by the Township; however, the type of activities available are
limited by the existing size of the park. (Site 6.15) is located between the
expressway and Brentwood Road. Do not develop.
Recommendations
 Continue to insure that a maintenance program is conducted for the
upkeep of the park. (Site 6.12)
 Continue to monitor needs of the area and work with the Lake Pointe
Homeowners group and adjacent residents to further develop the park.
(Site 6.12)
 Maintain the Township owned property as a buffer to the expressway.
(Site 6.15)
96
Unit 40
Recommendation
 No action required based on the size and uses of the planning unit along
with the fact that the entire planning unit abuts the Middle Rouge Parkway.
Unit 41
This area consists of high-density residential, rental storage buildings, iron &
metal facility and vacant properties at the northeast corner. This area is mostly
developed multiple family housing. Although a corner of the area touches
Hines Drive, recreation space should be provided in any development.
Recommendations
 Work with Wayne County to provide access to Hines Drive from the
surrounding neighborhoods.
Unit 42
Contamination was previously discovered. Mitigation would be required. This
unit is projected for commercial development.
Recommendations
 Continue to monitor this particular area and insure that adequate open
space and structured play areas are required during the site plan review
process, if the area is to be developed for any residential use. MDEQ must
give a write-off prior to any consideration for residential development given
the history of the site.
Unit 43
Recommendation
 No action required based on existing and projected industrial land uses for
this planning unit.
Unit 44
Recommendation
Unit 45
Recommendation
 No action required based on existing and projected non-residential land
uses for this planning unit.
97
Unit 46
Recommendation
 No action required based on existing and projected non-residential land
Unit 47
Planning unit 47 contains a large population. The majority of the property was
developed in the early 1960's, therefore, the residential unit development
option was not part of the develop process. Farrand School is centrally
located in the planning unit, however, it is deficient in the total acreage
needed for a playground neighborhood park by approximately 4+ acres. Site
17 the Lake Point Soccer Park was constructed which will service this
planning area. Farrand should be developed to increase the environment of
the property.
Recommendation
 Work with the school district to improve the environmental quality of the
Farrand School (site 4.6).
 Continue to monitor and improve the new soccer park.
Unit 48
Recommendation
 The bulk of this planning unit was approved for an office planned unit
development. No further action is required.
Unit 49
Recommendation
 No action required based on the existing and projected industrial land
Unit 50
Recommendation
Unit 51
Recommendation
98
Unit 52
Recommendation
99
XII. PREVIOUS OBJECTIVES
IMPLEMENTATION & RECOMMENDATIONS
In order to provide some historical perspective to the advancement of
recreation and recreation sites in the Township, the following presentation
reviews the 1978, 1986 and 1992 objectives and what, if any, actions was
taken on each.
1978 OBJECTIVES
Goal 1
Expand and Develop the Recreation - Municipal Complex.
Objective 1
Acquire the 34+ Acre Parcel Located Directly North of the Existing 9-hole Golf
Course.
Projected Time:
Immediate
Projected Cost:
$255,000
a. Local funds
$127,500
b. Federal funds
$127,500
COMPLETED. NO FEDERAL
FUNDS USED.
(BOR)
Objective 2
Construct Shuffleboard Courts with Seating Area and Purchase Shuffleboard
Equipment.
Projected Time:
1978
Projected Cost:
$14,000
a. Local funds
$2,000
b. Federal Funds
COMPLETED.
$12,000
(revenue sharing)
Objective 3
Construct a Retention Basin and a Permanent Pond Area. Remove Existing
Roadway and Refurbish Area by Mounding with Excess Pond Excavation.
Projected Time:
1978 - 1979
Projected Cost:
$77,500
a. Federal Funds
$77,500
COMPLETED.
(revenue sharing)
Objective 4
Construct New Vehicle Entry to Park, New Roadway and Increase Parking at Ball
Diamonds.
Projected Time:
1978 - 1979
Projected Cost:
$45,000
a. Local funds
$45,000
100
COMPLETED.
Objective 5
Construct a Recreation Building to Include a Fully Enclosed Area to Consist of
Restrooms, Office, Equipment Storage and Equipment Distribution. Roof
Pavilion Area with Fireplace.
Projected Time:
1978 - 1979
Projected Cost:
$80,000
a.
$80,000
Federal Funds
COMPLETED.
(revenue sharing)
Objective 6
Objective 7
Extend Utilities into Park and Install Drinking Fountain.
Projected Time:
1978 - 1979
Projected Cost:
$20,000
SANITARY SEWER TO BE
PART OF BYRON DRAIN
EXPANSION (BONDING
WATER, ELECTRICAL AND
PHONE)
a. Local funds
$20,000
COMPLETED.
Construct Additional Drives and Parking for New Building.
Projected Time:
1978 - 1979
Projected Cost:
$60,000
a. Local revenue
$60,000
COMPLETED.
(sharing)
Objective 8
Objective 9
Replace Inadequate Watering System for Existing 9-hole Golf Course.
Projected Time:
1978 - 1979
Projected Cost:
$50,000
a. Federal Funds
(revenue sharing)
$50,000
Construct Children’s Creative Play Area and Add Additional Play Equipment.
Projected Time:
1978 - 1979
Projected Cost:
$21,000
a. Local funds
$13,000
b.
Objective 10
Objective 11
COMPLETED. GOLF
COURSE EXPANDED TO 18
HOLES WITH COMPLETE
WATERING SYSTEM.
Private funds
$8,000
COMPLETED. ESTIMATED
$50,000. ALL PRIVATE
FUNDS. ON-SITE CONSTRUCTION BY ARTIST
PETER ROCKWELL. INCLUDED FULL EDUCATION
PROGRAM.
Add Additional (10) Grills and (20) Picnic Tables.
Projected Time:
1979 - 1980
Projected Cost:
$4,000
a. Local funds
$4,000
COMPLETED.
Add Plantings at Park.
Projected Time:
1978, 1979 & 1980
101
COMPLETED.
Objective 12
Projected Cost:
$5,000/yr
a. Local funds
$5,000/yr
Construct Path Systems.
Projected Time:
1980 - 1981
Projected Cost:
$20,000
a. Local funds
$10,000
b. Federal Funds
$10,000
DELETED: DETERMINED
NOT NEEDED.
(BOR)
Objective 13
Construct (5) Tennis Courts.
Projected Time:
1981 - 1982
Projected Cost:
$75,000
a.
Local funds
$37,500
b.
Federal Funds
$37,500
GIVEN LOW PRIORITY - NOT
COMPLETED.
(BOR)
Objective 14
Retain revenues generated by existing golf course for use in the recreation
budget for future improvements. This concept has been generally followed. No
set adopted policy.
Objective 15
Improve Ball Fields and Expand to a Multi-use Sports Area. (Improved Ball
Fields - Community Elected Not to Extend to Multi-use Area.)
Projected Time:
1980 - 1981
Projected Cost:
$90,000
a.
Local funds
$45,000
b.
Federal Funds
$45,000
IMPROVED BALLFIELDS COMMUNITY ELECTED NOT
TO EXTEND TO MULTI-USE
AREA.
(BOR or private funds)
Goal 2
Complete the Development of the Park Land at Robinwood Street.
Objective 1
Ensure That Newly Planted Trees Are Properly Maintained - Establish a
Maintenance Program.
Objective 2
Projected Time:
1978
Projected Cost:
$500
a. Local funds
$500
COMPLETED.
Install (1) Bench in Area Established as Seating Area.
Projected Time:
1978 - 1979
102
COMPLETED.
Objective 3
Projected Cost:
$800
a. Local funds
$800
Install Climbing Equipment in Existing Sand Area.
Projected Time:
1979 - 1980
Projected Cost:
$1,200
a.
Local funds
$900
b.
Private funds
$300
NO ACTION - LOCAL
RESIDENTS DETERMINED
NOT DESIRED.
Goal 3
Develop the Park Located at Ann Arbor Trail and Ann Arbor Road as a Scenic
Entry into the Community.
Objective 1
Get Work Program to Clean Area and Remove Existing Debris, Litter and Weeds.
Projected Time:
1978 - 1979
Projected Cost:
$3,500
a.
$3,500
Federal Funds
COMPLETED.
(work program)
Objective 2
Objective 3
Coordinate with Wayne County Road Commission and Michigan State
Department of Highways and Transportation Relative to Re-alignment of Ann
Arbor Trail and Ann Arbor Road and Obtain Excess Property to Be Joined to
Park Land.
Projected Time:
1978 - 1979
Projected Cost:
$0
COMPLETED. ACTUAL
CONSTRUCTION PART OF
COUNTY TIME FRAME.
Improve the Scenic Qualities of the Site by Improving Grading, Planting
Additional Trees and Establishing a Sign Identifying the Community.
Projected Time:
1978, 1979 &
1980
Projected Cost:
$15,500
a. Private funds
$15,500
COMPLETED.
Goal 4
Develop an Administrative and Maintenance Framework to Deal with Recreation
in Plymouth Township.
Objective 1
Hire a Qualified Person to Handle the Maintenance and Day-day Operations of
Existent Parks.
Projected Time:
1978
Projected Cost:
$15,000
a.
$15,000
Local funds
COMPLETED.
Expand the Present Recreation Committee to Include a Number of the Planning
103
Objective 2
Objective 3
Objective 4
Objective 5
Commission and Two Citizens of the Township.
Projected Time:
1979 - 1980
Projected Cost:
$0
DETERMINED TO KEEP
WITHIN JURISDICTION OF
THE TOWNSHIP BOARD.
Hire a Recreation Director to Coordinate Recreation in the Township. Director of
Planning Hired, Recreation Design Background Included.
Projected Time:
1981 - 1982
Projected Cost:
$16,000-$24,000
a.
$16,000-$24,000
Local Funds
COMPLETED. DIRECTOR
OF PLANNING HIRED,
RECREATION DESIGN
BACKGROUND INCLUDED.
Pursue the Feasibility of Joint Recreation Programming with the City of
Plymouth.
Projected Time:
1978
Projected Cost:
None at this time
REVISITED IN 1991.
PRELIMINARY STEPS
TAKEN. REVISITED IN
1998. STALLED BECAUSE
OF MILLAGE DEFEAT.
Ensure That the Recreation Plan Is Monitored to Ensure its Implementation and
Periodic Updating.
Projected Time:
1978
Projected Cost:
$0
COMPLETED. ON GOING
PROCESS.
Goal 5
Expand Recreation and Open Lands in Areas Which Are Being Considered for
Immediate Residential Development.
Objective 1
Encourage Residential Development and the Residential Unit Development
Section of Plymouth Township Zoning Ordinance to Encourage Provisions for
Parks Within the Immediate Neighborhood.
Objective 2
Objective 3
Projected Time:
Immediate
Projected Cost:
$0
COMPLETED. ON GOING
PROJECT.
Ensure That Review of the Parks and Open Space Plan Is Considered During the
Plat Review Process of the Township.
Projected Time:
Immediate
Projected Cost:
$0
COMPLETED. ON GOING
PROJECT.
Pursue the Feasibility of Increasing the Exposure to School/Recreation Sites by
Requiring That Pedestrian Links Are 35 Feet in Width or Greater. This Will Allow
Greater Exposure and Permit a Greater Opportunity for Landscaping Within the
Access Area.
Projected Time:
1978
Projected Cost:
$0
104
COMPLETED. ON GOING
PROJECT.
Goal 6
Expand the Area of Recreation Programming in the Township.
Objective 1
Coordinate and Work with the Plymouth YMCA to Establish Programs.
Objective 2
Objective 3
Objective 4
Projected Time:
1978 - 1979
Projected Cost:
$800
A.
$800
Local Funds
NOW HAVE A DAY CAMP
PROGRAM EACH SUMMER
ENTIRE SUMMER.
Continue to Work with Little League and Other Organizations of this Nature.
Projected Time:
1978
Projected Cost:
$500
A.
$500
Local Funds
COMPLETED. ON GOING
PROJECT.
Pursue the Feasibility of Establishing a Joint Recreation Program with the City
of Plymouth.
Projected Time:
Immediate
Projected Cost:
Unknown
PUT ON HOLD SINCE
DEFEAT OF THE
RECREATION MILLAGE
REQUEST.
Coordinate with the Plymouth-Canton School District in the Area of Recreation
Programming and Site Improvements for Recreation Use. Establish an
Improvement Program.
Projected Time:
1978 - 1979
Projected Cost:
None at this timewill have to be
evaluated and
determined based
on program
proposals.
A FORMAL SUBMISSION
WITH SPECIFIC
OBJECTIVES SHOULD BE
FORWARDED TO THE
SCHOOL DISTRICT.
1986 OBJECTIVES
Objective 1
Acquire the 17+ Acre Parcel Located North of Recreation Site McClumpha and
Ann Arbor Trail.
Projected Time:
Objective 2
Immediate
Projected Cost: (estimate)
$59,500-$170,000
a.
Local Funds
$29,750-$85,000
b.
Other Funds
$29,750-$85,000
COMPLETED. NO COST TO
TOWNSHIP. PORTION OF
SITE DEVELOPED SINGLE
FAMILY RESIDENTIAL.
WOODED PORTION OF
SITE DEEDED TO
TOWNSHIP.
Construct Children’s Creative Play Area and Add Play Equipment at Major
Township Park.
Projected Time:
Immediate
Projected Cost:
$55,000
105
COMPLETED. BUILT IN
NEW BUDGET FOR NEW
PLAN.
Objective 3
Objective 4
Objective 5
a.
Local Funds
$0,000
b.
Other Funds (private
donations)
$55,000
Construction of Minimum 4 Tennis Courts at Major Township Park.
Projected Time:
1986 - 1989
Projected Cost:
$100,000
a.
Local Funds
$50,000
b.
Other Funds (LWCF)
$50,000
Replace Broken Concrete at 1st Kiwanis Shelter Located at Major Township
Park.
Projected Time:
1986 - 1987
Projected Cost:
$20,000
a.
$20,000
Projected Time:
1986 - 1987
Projected Cost:
$8,000-$12,000
Objective 9
Local Funds (in-kind service)
Projected Time:
1986 - 1987
Projected Cost:
$8,000 - $11,000
Local Funds
COMPLETED.
In kind service
New Maintenance Facility Is Required for Park/Golf Course Complete Feasibility
Study to Include New Clubhouse.
Projected Time:
By September 1987
Projected Cost:
$17,000
a.
Objective 8
COMPLETED.
Develop Master Planting Plan and Installation over Period of Years 1986 - 1991
at Major Township Park.
a.
Objective 7
Local Funds
COMPLETED.
Develop Master Plan for Expanded Land Area after Acquisition (17 Acres) and
Parking at New Shelter at Major Township Park.
a.
Objective 6
GIVEN LOW PRIORITY.
Local Funds
COMPLETED.
In kind service
Clean out Detention Pond Located at Major Township Park.
Projected Time:
1986 - 1988
Projected Cost:
$50,000
a.
$50,000
Local Funds
DETERMINED NOT
REQUIRED AT THIS TIME.
Expansion of Picnic Area at New Shelter, 50 New Picnic Tables at Major
Township Park.
106
Objective 10
Objective 11
Objective 12
Objective 13
Objective 14
Projected Time:
1986 - 1987
Projected Cost:
$15,000
a.
Local Funds
b.
Other Funds (private
funding)
$15,000
Projected Time:
1990
Projected Cost:
$90,000
a.
$90,000
Local Funds
COMPLETED AT COST OF
$143,150 TO TOWNSHIP.
Develop plantings along east property line at major Township park.
Projected Time:
1990
Projected Cost:
$21,000
a.
$21,000
Local Funds
COMPLETED.
General Maintenance of Roads, (Cap) at Major Township Park.
Projected Time:
1987 - 1988
Projected Cost:
$60,000
a.
$60,000
Local Funds
COMPLETED. REMOVED
SOME OLD PARKING AND
ADDED NEW LOT AND
LANDSCAPING.
COMPLETED AT COST OF
$354,185 TO TOWNSHIP.
Storm Sewer System to Prevent Wet Area Problems at Main Drive at Major
Township Park.
Projected Time:
1989 - 1990
Projected Cost:
$83,000
a.
$83,000
Local Funds
DETERMINED NOT
REQUIRED AT THIS TIME.
GRADING SATISFIED.
Ensure That the Recreation Plan Is Monitored for Implementation and Periodic
Updating.
Projected Time:
1986 - 1991
Projected Cost:
$10,000
Local Funds
COMPLETED.
In kind service
Encourage Development Consistent with Plan; Have Meeting with Planning
Commission to Review Recreation Plan.
Projected Time:
1986
Projected Cost:
$0,000
a.
Objective 16
$0,000
Rework parking at sled hill and expand for new shelter at major Township park.
a.
Objective 15
COMPLETED.
COMPLETED.
Local Funds
Evaluate Site Located at McClumpha Road Between Ann Arbor Road and Ann
107
Arbor Trail for Detail Recommendation.
Projected Time:
1986 - 1988
Projected Cost:
$4,000
a.
Objective 17
Projected Time:
1987 - 1988
Projected Cost:
$8,000
Objective 20
1986
Projected Cost:
$2,000
Local Funds
COMPLETED.
In kind service
Repair Erosion Problems at Golf Course.
Projected Time:
1986 - 1987
Projected Cost:
$20,000
a.
$20,000
Local Funds
COMPLETED.
Maintenance of Ponds at Golf Course to Improve Storm Maintenance.
Projected Time:
1986 - 1991
Projected Cost:
$75,000 Estimate
Local Funds
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
COMPLETED.
$75,000
Repair and Replace Crossing for Carts and Maintenance Vehicles.
Projected Time:
1986
Projected Cost:
$20,000 Estimate
a.
Objective 22
In kind service
Projected Time:
a.
Objective 21
Local Funds
NO SPECIFIC ACTION.
Establish a Five Year Capital Purchase Program for Park Equipment. Establish
List (Type and Purpose) Proposed Life and Replacement Time.
a.
Objective 19
In kind service
Evaluate Planning Unit 9, Determine Problem and Alternatives.
a.
Objective 18
Local Funds
SOLD BY SCHOOL
DISTRICT TO PRIVATE
DEVELOPER.
Local Funds
COMPLETED.
$20,000
Pursue Closing of Powell Road, Incorporate with Golf Course.
Projected Time:
1986 - 1987
Projected Cost:
To be determined
a.
Local Funds
108
CLOSING COMPLETED.
PURSUE WITH 1999 PLAN
INCORPORATING INTO
GOLF COURSE.
1992 OBJECTIVES
Objective 1
Project: Acquire the 17+ Acre Parcel Located North of the Township Existing
Major Park.
Location: Immediately North of Township Major Park. See Map 2 - E North of Site
10.
Time:
Immediate 1992 - 1993
Projected Cost:
a.
Estimated: $350,000
Local Funds
$87,500
b. Michigan Natural Resources
Trust:
Objective 2
$262,500
COMPLETED AT NO
COST TO TOWNSHIP.
PORTION OF SITE
DEVELOPED AS
SINGLE FAMILY
RESIDENTIAL USE.
WOODED PORTION OF
SITE DEEDED TO
TOWNSHIP FOR
INCORPORATION INTO
MAIN PARK.
Project: Rewire Problem Underground Wiring for Little League Ball Diamonds.
Location: Located in Northeast Section of Major Park.
Time:
Objective 3
Immediate 1992
Projected Cost:
Estimated:$20,000
a. Local Funds
$20,000
COMPLETED.
Project: Replace Switchboxes and Associated Wiring for Little League Ball
Diamonds.
Location: Located in Northeast Section of Major Park.
Time:
Immediate 1992
Projected Cost:
a.
Objective 4
COMPLETED.
Estimated$33,000
Local Funds
$33,000
Project: Purchase of 10-15 New Picnic Tables to Be Used at Major Township
Park.
Location: to Be Used at the Major Township Park at Pavilion or Shelters.
Time:
Objective 5
1992
Projected Cost:
$3,000
a. Local Funds
$3,000
COMPLETED.
Project: Repair Parking Areas and Roads Located at the Major Township Park.
Location: All Existing Interior Roads and Parking Areas Located at the Major
Park.
Time:
1992 - 1993
Projected Cost:
$354,185
a. Local Funds
$354,185
109
COMPLETED.
Objective 6
Project: Purchase New Riding Mower.
Location: The New Mower Will Be Used at All Park Locations. See Map 2 Site 10,
12, 14, 16 & 17.
Objective 7
Projected Time:
1992
Projected Cost:
$23,000
a. Local Funds
$23,000
COMPLETED.
Project: Replace Back Stop and Associated Fencing for Little League Ball
Diamonds at Major Township Park.
Location: Located in Northwestern Section of Major Park.
Time:
Objective 8
1993 - 1994
Projected Cost:
$12,000
a. Local Funds
$12,000
COMPLETED.
Project: Stain Two Shelters Located in Major Township Park.
Location: Located in Southeast and Southwest Portion of Plymouth Township
Major Park.
Time:
Objective 10
1993
Projected Cost:
$4,000
a. Local Funds
$4,000
COMPLETED.
Project: Purchase New Play Equipment in Major Park over Four Years.
Location: Place near Creek and Existing Rockwell Sculpture South Central
Portion of Major Park.
Time:
Objective 10
1992 - 1995
Projected Cost:
$15,000/year
1992-1995
a.
$15,000/year
1992-1995
Local Funds
DETERMINED NOT
NEEDED AT THIS TIME
DUE TO NEW
PLAYSCAPE.
Project: Improve Golf Cart Paths Throughout Golf Course.
Location: Improvements to Be Made Throughout the Hilltop Golf Course.
Time:
Objective 11
1992 - 1993
Projected Cost:
$130,000
a. Local Funds
$130,000
COMPLETED.
Project: Remove Silt Form Golf Course Ponds.
Location: Located in the Central Portion of the Golf Course.
Time:
1992 - 1993
110
AFTER EVALUATION
Objective 12
Projected Cost:
$15,000
a. Local Funds:
$15,000
AND STUDY
DETERMINED NO
NECESSARY AT THIS
TIME.
Project: Work with Lake Pointe Homeowners Group to Determine Pro/cons of
Parks in Planning Unit 47.
Location: The Development of a Park If Determined by Local Residence Would
Be Located at and Incorporate Site 17 North of the X-way (M-14) and South of
Lake Pointe. See Map 2 Site 17.
Time:
1992 - 1993
Projected Cost:
$15,000
a. Local Funds:
Objective 13
COMPLETED.
In kind service
Project: Ensure That the Recreation Plan Is Monitored for Implementation and
Periodic Updating.
Location: Township Wide
Time:
1992 - 1996
Projected Cost:
$30,000
a. Local Funds:
Objective 14
COMPLETED.
In kind service
Project: Evaluate in Detail Needs and Recreation Development Alternative for
Unit 13.
Location: Located in the South East Section of the Township. The Area
Boundaries by Railroad, City of Plymouth, Hines Park (Middle Rouge Parkway)
Haggerty Road and Ann Arbor Road.
Time:
1994 - 1995
Projected Cost:
COMPLETED.
$15,000
a. Local Funds:
In kind service
1999 OBJECTIVES
Objective 1
Project: Acquire properties within Planning Unit 5 as available.
Location: Properties defined by Ann Arbor Trail, Ann Arbor Road, and Beck
Road.
Time:
Objective 2
As Available
Projected Cost:
Appraisal Required
Est. $85,000
a. Local Funds
Cost of Land
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
DETAIL EVALUATION
COMPLETED.
DETERMINATION MADE
NOT TO PROCEED.
DELETE FROM OBJECTIVE
LIST
Project: Acquire frontage properties for Township Site 17. Develop for soccer
fields, etc.
111
Time:
Objective 3
As Available
Projected Cost:
Appraisal Required
Est. $85,000
a. Local Funds
Cost of Land
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
COMPLETED. NO GRANT
DOLLARS USED. COST TO
TOWNSHIP $380,949.20
Project: Develop neighborhood park.
Location: Township Site 20 (Ann Arbor Trail and Ferguson).
Time:
Objective 4
1999-2000
Projected Cost:
$220,000
a. Local Funds
$55,000
b. MNRTF
$165,000
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
COMPLETED. MILLER
FAMILY PARK
TOTAL COST $232,197
GRANT DOLLARS USED.
$172,500
COST TO TOWNSHIP
$59,700
Project: Construct a fishing dock, wood bridge and path from pavilion to permit
greater barrier-free accessibility.
Location: Located in West Side and Midway in the Main Township Park (See Map
4, and Map 5 Item “A”.)
Time:
Objective 5
1999-2000
Projected Cost:
$74,000
a. Local Funds
-
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
$74,000
d. Other
-
COMPLETED.
Project: Construct walking and jogging trail. Construct outdoor water quality
educational area.
Location: Located in Main Township Park (See Maps 4 and 5 Items “B”.)
Time:
199-2000
Projected Cost:
$90,000
a. Local Funds
$45,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Rouge River Program Office
Objective 6
COMPLETED.
$45,000
Project: Incorporate triangle piece of land into golf course. Adjust whole layout
and construct a permanent clubhouse.
Location: Triangle piece of land in Planning Unit 22 formed by Ann Arbor Trail,
Beck Road, and vacated Powell Road.
Time:
2000-2001
Projected Cost:
$1.4 million
a. Local Funds
$1.4 million
b. MNRTF
DECIDED TO PLACE ON
HOLD
-
112
Objective 7
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Project: Work with local baseball leagues to see that young children continue to
have the opportunity to play competitive baseball.
Location: Township Park.
Time:
Objective 8
1999-2004
Projected Cost:
$20,000
a. Local Funds
In Kind Services
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
COMPLETED. NEW
OUTFIELD, AND
BACKSTOP FENCING.
SAFETY CAP ON FENCE
AND OTHER MISC
IMPROVEMENTS.
TOWNSHIP FUNDS
$157,000 OVER 3 YEARS
Project: Purchase new John Deere 20 mower.
Location: For Main Park.
Time:
1999
Projected Cost:
$15,000
a. Local Funds
$15,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
COMPLETED.
d. Other
Objective 9
Project: GMC Pick-up Truck for park use only.
Location: Park use only.
Time:
Objective 10
2001
Projected Cost:
$22,000
a. Local Funds
$22,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
COMPLETED. $22,800
Project: Lawn sprayer and trailer.
Location: For park use only.
Time:
Objective 11
2000
Projected Cost:
$8,500
a. Local Funds
$8,500
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
PUT ON HOLD
Project: Howard Price mower.
Location: For park use only.
Time:
2002
Projected Cost:
$31,251
a. Local Funds
$31,251
b. MNRTF
COMPLETED. TOWNSHIP
FUNDS $34,724
113
Objective 12
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Project: New lighting for ball diamonds.
Location: Main Township Park.
Time:
Objective 13
2003
Projected Cost:
$60,000
a. Local Funds
$60,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
DETAIL STUDY
PERFORMED. COST
$50,000 TO $55,000 PER
FIELD. PLACED ON HOLD
Project: Construct outdoor skating area.
Location: Main Township Park.
Time:
Objective 14
2000
Projected Cost:
$90,000
a. Local Funds
$90,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Project: Evaluate Park near Morrison to Determine Expansion or Vacate.
Time:
Objective 15
2001-2002
Projected Cost:
$3,000
a. Local Funds
In kind service
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
NO ACTION TO DATE.
Evaluate in Detail Needs/Development Alternatives for Unit 13.
Projected Time:
2002-2003
Projected Cost:
$9,500
a.
Objective 16
COMPLETED.
local funds
COMPLETED.
In kind service
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Coordinate with School District and private technical assistance in upgrading
environmental quality of most school sites.
Projected Time:
2002-2003
Projected Cost:
$50,000
a. Local funds
In kind service
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
114
COMPLETED
IMPROVEMENT. ISBISTER
SCHOOL $99,000
TOWNSHIP FUNDS
Objective 17
Work with Homeowners Groups to Determine Pro/Cons of Access to Parks and
School Sites.
Projected Time:
2002-2003
Projected Cost:
$7,500
a. Local funds
Objective 18
Objective 19
IN PROGRESS
In kind service
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Evaluate in Detail the Direction of the Community for Planning Unit 47.
Projected Time:
2002-2003
Projected Cost:
$7,500
a. Local funds
In kind service
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
COMPLETED. WORKED
WITH COMMUNITY
CONSTRUCTED
LAKEPOINT SOCCER
PARK $1,300,974
TOWNSHIP FUNDS
Project: Conduct a Needs Analysis Investigating Increasing Water Available to
Golf Course and Incorporate as Features of Park If Feasible.
Location: The Incorporation of Additional Water Feature Would Be in the Major
Park, More than Likely in the Western Perimeter Area. This Would Permit
Increasing Water Available to Golf Course; Primary Purpose. See Map 2 Site 10.
Time:
Objective 20
2003 (Study)
2004
Projected Cost:
$15,000
$100,000
a. Local Funds
$15,000
$100,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
STUDY COMPLETED.
DETERMINED NOT
REQUIRED.
Project: Repair Well and Aerator Which Serves the Pond Within the Major Park.
Location: Items Are Located in and Serve the Pond Found in the West Central
Portion of the Major Park. See Map 4.
Time:
Objective 21
2004
Projected Cost:
$15,000
a. Local Funds
$15,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
STUDY COMPLETED.
DETERMINED NOT
REQUIRED.
Project: Coordination with Local Service Organizations (Kiwanis, Rotary Club,
Lions Club, etc.) to Assist in Expanding and/or Maintaining Existing Park.
Time:
1999-2000
Projected Cost:
$5,000
a. Local Funds
In Kind Services
115
LOOKING AT 2006 OR 2007
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
2005 OBJECTIVES
Objective 1
Project: Miller Woods and adjoining property is to be declared surplus
property by the School District. Acquire property for recreation use.
Location: Planning Unit 21, Ridge and Powell Roads
Objective 2
Objective 3
Time:
As Available
Projected Cost:
To be determined
a. Local Funds
50% Cost of Land
b. MNRTF
50% Cost of Land
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
DUE TO ECONOMIC
CONDITIONS FOR BOTH
SCHOOL DISTRICT AND
TOWNSHIP, NO ACTION
TAKEN. THIS SHOULD
REMAIN AS A TOP GOAL.
RETENTION OF “CLIMAX
FOREST” AND
DEVELOPMENT OF
ACTIVE SPORTS REMAIN
AS BEST AND HIGHEST
USE OF THE PROPERTY.
Project: Develop Master Plan for the above property (objective one)
Time:
As Available
Projected Cost:
$15,000 - $20,000
a. Local Funds
$15,000 - $20,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
DEPENDENT ON
OBJECTIVE 1,
THEREFORE, NO ACTION
TAKEN.
Project: Construct a new maintenance building
Location: Main Township Site Park, Planning Unit 22
Objective 4
Time:
2005-2010
Projected Cost:
$200,000
a. Local Funds
$200,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
COMPLETED
Project: Investigate the potential of purchasing other undeveloped properties
in the Township.
Location: Township wide
Time:
2005-2006
Projected Cost:
-
a. Local Funds
-
116
COMPLETED. NONE AT
THIS TIME.
Objective 5
Objective 6
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
In house study
Project: Continue coordination with School District to upgrade the physical
environment of school sites to a neighborhood park quality
Time:
2005-2006
Projected Cost:
$200,000
a. Local Funds
$100,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. School District
$50,000 and $50,000 in-kind
Service
THE COORDINATION AND
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN
THE TWO REMAINS.
HOWEVER, THE
ECONOMIC CONDITIONS
OF BOTH HAVE PLACED
THIS AS A VERY LOW
PRIORITY AT THIS TIME.
SHOULD REMAIN A GOAL.
Project: New lighting for ball diamonds
Location: Main Township Park
Objective 7
Time:
2005-2010
Projected Cost:
$55,000 per field
a. Local Funds
$55,000 per field
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
DETERMINED TO MOVE TO
2010-2015 RANGE.
Project: Work with local baseball leagues to see that young children continue
to have the opportunity to play competitive baseball.
Location: Township Park.
Objective 8
Time:
2005-2010
Projected Cost:
$20,000
a. Local Funds
$20,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
COMPLETED. CONTINUE
AS GOAL 2010-2015.
Project: Install plantings along north property line and within center of ball
field area.
Time:
2005-2006
Projected Cost:
$15,000
a. Local Funds
$15,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
DETERMINED TO MOVE TO
2010-2015.
d. Other
117
Objective 9
Objective 10
Work with homeowner groups to determine pro/con of access to parks
and school sites
Time:
2005-2006
Projected Cost:
$7,500
a. Local Funds
In kind service
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
NOT COMPLETED.
Rebuild and improve shelter no 2
Objective 11
Objective 12
Time:
2006-2007
Projected Cost:
$50,000
a. Local Funds
$20,00
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Service clubs
In kind service
NOT COMPLETED. DUE TO
CONSTRUCTION OF
MAINTENANCE BUILDING
AND ECONOMIC
CONDITIONS NEED TO
ACCOMPLISH 2010-2015.
Pursue innovative ways of partnering with private sector, School District and
adjacent communities
Time:
2005-2006
Projected Cost:
$10,000
a. Local Funds
$10,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
CARRY ON AS A GOAL IN
2010-2015.
Project: Make sure special attention is given to protecting Johnson Creek, a
cold water trout stream
Location: Western portion of Township
Objective 13
Time:
2005-2010
Projected Cost:
-
a. Local Funds
-
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
CONTINUE AS A GOAL IN
2010-2015 PLAN.
Project: Construct a permanent clubhouse / community building located
between the golf course and the park
Location: Township golf course / park
Time:
2005-2007
Projected Cost:
To be determined during
preliminary studies
118
ECONOMIC CONDITIONS
REQUIRED TO MOVE TO 20132015 GOAL IN NEW PLAN.
Objective 14
Objective 15
Objective 16
Objective 17
a. Local Funds
-
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Project: Ensure that the Recreation Plan is monitored for implementation and
periodic updating.
Time:
2005-2010
Projected Cost:
$10,000
a. Local Funds
In kind service
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
ACTION TAKEN.
CONTINUE AS GOAL IN
2010 PLAN.
Project: Establish a five year capital purchase plan for park equipment, life
and replacement time.
Time:
2005-2008
Projected Cost:
-
a. Local Funds
-
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
CONTINUE AS GOAL IN
2010 PLAN.
Project: Establish a tree nursery to supplement plantings at Township
properties.
Time:
2005-2006
Projected Cost:
$15,000
a. Local Funds
$15,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
WAS EVALUATED AND
DETERMINED NOT TO
PROCEED AT THIS TIME.
MAINTAIN AS A GOAL TO
BE REVALUATED.
Project: Work with School District to determine the feasibility of creating
summer camps at school sites.
Location: Throughout the Township
Objective 18
Time:
2005-2006
Projected Cost:
$7,500
a. Local Funds
In kind service
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
NOT PURSUED DUE TO
ECONOMIC CONDITIONS.
KEEP AS 2010 OBJECTIVE.
Project: Relocate ice skating rink to have better chance for ice and to better
use the fireplace pavilion or island at Township Hall.
119
Location: Main Township park
Objective 19
Time:
Summer 2005
Projected Cost:
$30,000
a. Local Funds
$30,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
DECIDED TO HOLD OFF
TILL NEXT CYCLE.
Project: Conduct feasibility study to create a golf learning center at the
triangle of Township golf course.
Location: Main Township Park corner of Beck and Ann Arbor Trail.
Objective 20
Time:
2005-2006
Projected Cost:
$10,000
a. Local Funds
$10,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
NO LONGER AN
OBJECTIVE.
Project: Complete a linkage study. The intent to link important destination
points in and adjacent to the community
Location: All of the Township
Objective 21
Time:
2006-2007
Projected Cost:
$20,000
a. Local Funds
$20,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
NOT COMPLETED.
Project: Increase the number and quality of baseball, soccer, and lacrosse
fields
Location: Township wide
Objective 22
Time:
2005-2007
Projected Cost:
To be determined
a. Local Funds
-
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
MINOR PROGRESS
Project: Monitor new park maintenance system put in place to determine
changes if any.
Time:
2005-2010
Projected Cost:
To be determined
120
ON GOING ITEM
Objective 23
Objective 24
Objective 25
Objective 26
a. Local Funds
-
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Project: Look at establishing a recreation advisory committee to report
directly to the Supervisor.
Time:
2005
Projected Cost:
To be determined
a. Local Funds
-
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
MOVEMENT ON INFORMAL
BASIS. DIRECT DAILY
INVOLVEMENT BETWEEN
SUPERVISOR,
TREASURER & DPW
MANAGER
Project: Have the Township Board review “Plymouth Township Park Rules
and Regulations 2005” to determine revisions and/or reaffirm.
Time:
2005
Projected Cost:
To be determined
a. Local Funds
-
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
COMPLETED IN 2008
Project: Continue to work toward establishing the Rouge River Assembly as
a permit agency to deal with clean water issues.
Time:
2005-2007
Projected Cost:
$50,000
a. Local Funds
$50,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
ON GOING
Project: Complete a study of how various communities handle leashed pets
in parks. Review current policy and sustain or change. Also look at possible
dog park.
Time:
As Available
Projected Cost:
To be determined
a. Local Funds
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
KEEP CURRENT POSITION
NO PETS PERMITTED.
121
XIII 2010 IMPLEMENTATION & RECOMMENDATIONS
Recommendations Related To Open Space
Open Space along Major Thoroughfares
1.
Continue to insure that the organizational development of the traffic
corridors are adequate by utilizing landscape development techniques
to define and separate the roadway area, egress/ingress points to
adjacent land uses and the abutting land uses. Make sure
amendments are made to Zoning Ordinance to carry out this objective.
2.
Develop street tree plantings within the right-of-way to give scale and
visual continuity to the thoroughfare. This is essential in residential use
areas. Commercial areas should be reviewed and evaluated based on
lot width and depth.
3.
Prohibit parking in all R.O.W. areas and insure that a buffer area is
developed between all parking areas and the street setback line. The
amount of buffer area should increase with the proposed size of the
parking area.
4.
Require the construction of sidewalks along all major thoroughfares at
the time of development to allow for existing and future pedestrian
traffic. To facilitate smooth pedestrian traffic flow, insure that sidewalks
carry through drive areas and make sure walks are handicapped
accessible by reducing the height of curbs at street and driveway
intersections. Make sure detectable warning strips are included as part
of the sidewalk ramp.
5.
Reduce the number of potential conflicts with auto traffic flow by
keeping the number of curb cuts to a particular development to a
minimum and reduce the amount of distracting elements which may be
located in the right-of-way or the area immediately abutting the right-ofway.
6.
Continue to remove utility poles and overhead lines along the corridor.
Where such poles cannot be removed because of prohibitive cost,
review other alternatives to soften the visual effect of these elements.
7.
Prohibit temporary and permanent signs in the right-of-way area,
except for traffic control signs.
8.
Insure that signage is an appropriate scale and is used to identify the
business location.
9.
Encourage proper housekeeping of all open space areas along major
thoroughfares and encourage self-policing by business owners by
sponsoring clean-up fix-up days and seek support of local newspapers
122
in the program.
10.
Encourage visual relief along thoroughfare areas by providing for
intrusion of open space and landscape areas.
11.
Insure that proper site design principles are incorporated into all
proposed developments. Uses that would adversely affect the open
space area of the thoroughfare should be located away from them.
Example: service pick-up points, delivery areas and trash receptacle
areas.
Open Space along Major Expressways
1.
Insure that a transition is created along this area through the use of
landscape development techniques insuring that the proposal is
reviewed from two perspectives:
a.
Potential adverse impact on adjacent land uses, in particular,
residential developments.
b.
Potential adverse visual impact of the view of the Township from
the expressway.
2.
Avoid site developments which propose service areas, parking and
other distracting elements immediately adjacent to the limited access
highway right-of-way without some form of buffer between the two.
3.
Require evergreen trees and mounding in the rear or side yards of
proposed single family subdivisions which abut the right-of-way of a
limited access expressway.
4.
Require evergreen trees and mounding in the rear or side yards of
proposed multiple family complexes which abut the right-of-way of a
limited access expressway.
5.
Encourage appropriate general landscape development of the
expressway right-of-way by working with the Michigan Department of
Highways and Transportation.
Open Space at Major or Minor Entries to the Community
1.
Insure that special attention is given to various planting and landscape
development techniques within the public right-of-way at these areas.
Coordinate with Michigan Department of Transportation and/or Wayne
County for development within right-of-way areas.
2.
Additional landscape buffer areas should be provided between the
123
proposed use and the street setback line. The special landscape
development techniques should be incorporated in a proposed
development plan for these areas. These areas, because of their
location and particular significance to the entire community should be
looked upon as being “special areas” within the zoning district in which
they are located.
Recommendations Related to
Administration and Maintenance
Department / Segment of Recreation
1.
The current administrative framework for maintenance and
administration was established in 2004. The issue of recreation has
taken on greater significance under the new administration. The
Administration recognized the evolutionary process that has been
taking place in the area of recreation maintenance and supervision of
the parks. In 1999 the Parks Department was set up under the
overview of the Public Service Division as a positive step. With the
number of people visiting our main park with the addition of the
Sprayscape and the addition of Lake Point Soccer Park it was decided
the next step in this evolutionary process should take place. In order to
keep stricter control of general maintenance and oversee the
interaction between park personnel and the general public the park
personnel were placed directly under the immediate supervision of the
DPW Manager. The DPW Manager reports directly to the Supervisor.
The key issues to be considered are:
a.
Manpower and equipment needs.
b.
Maintenance programs for existing parks and coordinating daily
matters relative to recreation maintenance and park problems.
c.
Creating a user friendly atmosphere at all park areas.
2.
The Township runs a reservation system for the pavilion and two park
shelters at the main park and one at the Soccer Park. The program is
so successful that those wishing to reserve one of the structures start
lining up before the Township Hall building is open on the first work
day of the New Year. By the end of January or February, usually all
weekends have been booked.
3.
One of the goals of this plan should be to monitor the new
maintenance management process put in place and look at the
possibility of establishing a recreation advisory committee. This
committee would not have any power to make changes or to expend
124
money. They would coordinate directly with the Township Supervisor.
Their sole responsibility would be to keep track of the pulse of the
recreation areas and bring back to the Supervisor suggestions for
improving or expanding recreation offerings to the residents. This
process has been implemented to some degree. The Township
Treasurer has become very active in the overall maintenance
operations of the parks.
4.
The “Plymouth Township Park Rules and Regulations” have not
been reviewed by the Township Board since 2005. This document
should be reviewed by the Township Board to determine that all
policies, procedures and rules are consistent with the Board’s
views. The Rules and Regulations should be approved by the
Board after review and modification made if determined
necessary.
The following steps should be taken in the area of recreation
programming.
1.
With the introduction of the Playscape and the Sprayscape the area at
shelter one and shelter two has changed from a very low use area to a
high energy area used by mothers, grandmothers and grandfathers
and their children and grandchildren. The intensity of this area has
seen the disappearance of the Salvation Army and the YMCA day
camps. The Township action produced an area that is now often
heavily used from opening of the park to its closing. The Township
must as part of this plan evaluate how this area can be improved to
facilitate the number of users. The intensity of use has decreased to
some degree since its opening. Other communities have built
sprayscapes. This aspect should be monitored to determine if any
changes should be made.
Recommended General Short Range Goals (5 Years)
First priority should be given to the following:
1.
Address the recreation deficit by purchasing the school site found in
planning unit number 31 if the school district declares it as surplus land
and offers it for sale.
2.
Continued development of the major Township Park located on Ann
Arbor Trail and McClumpha making sure the concept of open space
and long vistas is maintained. The park should not be over developed.
3.
Improve and expand the golf course to permit improvements which will
continue service to Township residents. Revenues generated by the
125
golf course or other park activities should be retained for the park and
golf course. Continue to monitor the success of this use as a service
to residents and revenue producer.
4.
Continue to monitor the new soccer park created in planning unit 47.
5.
Continue monitoring the implementation of the Recreation Plan.
6.
Continue to encourage residential development under the Residential
Unit Development Section of Plymouth Township Zoning Ordinance to
encourage provisions for private parks within the neighborhood units.
Require developments under the Residential Unit Development section
where the environmental factors (woodlots and swale areas) warrant
such an approach. The Township would continue to take a strong role
in this area through the platting process. Make sure that existing open
space areas are maintained.
7.
Continue to pursue and nurture an effective liaison with the PlymouthCanton Community School District regarding:
a.
Protection of the Miller Woods.
b.
Structured athletic fields.
c.
Recreation programs.
d.
Development of school sites.
8.
In reviewing and processing subdivision plat submittals and other
residential developments, insure that the exposure to school sites from
the residential complexes will be increased. Avoid situations which will
create school sites with only 12 foot easements to the potential park
area of the school.
9.
Insure that the standards regarding major and minor entries into the
community, major thoroughfare roads, M-14 and I-275 expressways
and drainage swale areas are incorporated into the planning and
decision making process. The standards should be reviewed and
referenced during the site plan review process and the platting
process. Policy decisions which are potentially related to these areas
should be reviewed in light of these standards to insure that a
comprehensive and coordinated effort is made to achieve the
standards.
10.
Work with the Plymouth Community School District regarding
improving the neighborhood park potential of the school sites within the
Township.
126
11.
Work with all parties to try to upgrade all athletic fields and develop
new athletic fields.
Second Priority Short Range Goals
1.
Establish a liaison with Wayne County and work with them regarding
improvements to the Middle Rouge Parkway - Plymouth Township
segment.
2.
Assist the homeowners groups with management and planning efforts
for the private recreation areas.
Recommended Long Range Goals (10 Years)
The basic long range goal of the recreation plan is to provide a variety of
recreational spaces, facilities and programs in the Township which respond to
the recreational needs or desires of the general population and the individual
planning units. Where development has begun in earnest or is anticipated in
the immediate future development of private open space under RUD or
cluster housing option will take priority. Existing and increasing needs or
desires of the population must be addressed by continued development and
upgrading of facilities and programs.
Any land acquisition should be based on two criteria. First, large acreage
parcels should be acquired on a top priority basis because of the number of
limitations which are usually associated with the type of facilities planned.
Second, priority should be given based on specific location; for example, if it
is anticipated that a particular site will be developed as a school facility and
the neighborhood park would be most suitable located next to the proposed
school site, acquisition should take place before development precludes such
an approach.
The liaison and coordination between the Township, the Plymouth
Community School District and the adjacent communities is an important
element of the Recreation Plan. It is intended that this will lead to better
utilization of Township residents tax dollars, avoid overlapping recreational
activities and lead to an overall Recreation Plan and program which more
readily responds to the needs of the Township population.
127
2010 OBJECTIVES
Objective 1
Objective 2
Objective 3
Objective 4
Project: Miller Woods and adjoining property is owned by the School District.
It is anticipated that the property will be declared surplus property by the
School District. The property’s greatest value is for active recreation property
and the preservation of the “Climax Wooded Forest” for public use and
observation.
Time:
As Available
Projected Cost:
To be determined at time of
acquisition
a. Local Funds
50% Cost of Land
b. MNRTF
50% Cost of Land*
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
50% Cost of Land*
* Current program does not permit use of grant funds for property purchase under
public ownership (School District). Attempt to have this regulation modified when
the public entity is totally separate with different objectives. Review other potential
funding sources.
Project: Immediately upon or during purchase of Miller Woods and adjoining
property develop a Master Plan for the property. Retain and preserve the
woods as an outdoor class room for the study of a climax forest and develop
the remaining land for soccer, baseball or other active sports.
Immediately upon or during
Time:
purchase of land.
$16,000 - $21,000 (this is for
Projected Cost:
development of Master Plan)
a. Local Funds
100%
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
Miller Woods recreation
improvements cost would be
d. Other
determined as part of the
Master Plan development.
Project: Revamp and improve the interior of the Park Pavilion at Township
Park to help facilitate and increase the number of Township sponsored
activities.
Time:
Immediately
Projected Cost:
$13,000 to $15,000
a. Local Funds
100%
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Project: Rebuild and improve park shelter no. 2 located at Township Park.
Time:
2010-2012
128
Projected Cost:
$50,000
a. Local Funds
$25,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
In kind service from service
clubs such as Kiwanis,
Rotary etc.
Project: Continue to work with local baseball and softball leagues, Canton
Township Recreation Department and the City of Plymouth Recreation
Department to see that young children have the opportunity to play
competitive & recreational baseball, softball and other sports.
d. Other
Objective 5
Objective 6
Objective 7
Objective 8
Time:
2010-2015
Projected Cost:
$8,000 to $21,000
a. Local Funds
100%
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. School District
In-kind Service
Project: Construct a path from Pavilion and a handicapped bridge to increase
accessibility for the handicapped.
Time:
2010-2011
Projected Cost:
$85,000
a. Local Funds
-
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
$85,000
d. Other
-
Project: Continue to produce and maintain a five year capital improvement
and equipment plan for recreation.
Time:
2010-2015
Projected Cost:
$2,000
a. Local Funds
$2,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Project: Make sure the Recreation Plan is monitored for implementation as
recommended and periodic updating as needed.
Time:
2010-2015
Projected Cost:
$2,000 to $3,000
a. Local Funds
$2,000 to $3,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
129
d. Other
Objective 9
-
Project: As economic conditions improve, continue coordination with the
School District to upgrade the physical environments of school sites to that
of a neighborhood park.
Time:
2013
Projected Cost:
$200,000
a. Local Funds
$100,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
$50,000 cash, $50,000 in
kind services.
Project: New and additional lighting for ball diamonds at Township Park. One
of the four diamonds does not have lights. The existing lighting on the three
lighted fields is outdated, not energy efficient and are installed on old,
unsightly telephone poles.
d. Other
Objective 10
Objective 11
Objective 12
Objective 13
Time:
2010-2015
Projected Cost:
$228,000
a. Local Funds
$228,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Service clubs
In kind service
Project: Make sure special attention is given to protect Johnson Creek, a cold
water trout stream located in the north west portion of the Township and the
only cold water stream in the entire County.
Time:
2010 to 2015
Projected Cost:
$3,000
a. Local Funds
$3,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Project: Work with School District to determine the feasibility of creating
summer camps at School sites. Due to economic conditions this objective
was not pursued in the last plan. As economic conditions improve, evaluate.
Time:
2014 to 2015
Projected Cost:
$7,500
a. Local Funds
$7,500
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
Schools in kind service
Project: Continue to work with the Alliance of Rouge Communities (ARC) to
address clean water issues on a regional basis.
130
Objective 14
Objective 15
Objective 16
Objective 17
Time:
2010 to 2015
Projected Cost:
$50,000
a. Local Funds
$50,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Project: Install two sand volleyball courts in the area northeast of the
Township Park Sprayscape. The court shall be 18 meters (59 feet) long and 9
meters (29.5 feet) wide, divided into two 9m X 9m halves by a one-meter (40
inch) wide net placed so that the top of the net is 2.43 meters (7 feet, 11⅝
inches) above the center of the court for men’s competition, and 2.24 meters
(7 feet 4⅛ inches) for women’s competition (these heights are varied for
veterans and junior competitions).
Time:
2011
Projected Cost:
$40,000
a. Local Funds
$40,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Project: Monitor new park maintenance system to determine if changes or
adjustments need to be made.
Time:
2010 to 2015
Projected Cost:
To be determined
a. Local Funds
To be determined
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Project: Monitor and adjust as necessary the day to day direct input to the
Supervisor from Treasurer and DPW Manager regarding the parks.
Time:
2010 to 2015
Projected Cost:
To be determined
a. Local Funds
To be determined
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Project: The Township Board reviewed the “Plymouth Township Park Rules
and Regulations” in 2005 to determine changes, revisions or affirmation. This
should be completed again in 2010-2011.
Time:
2010 - 2011
Projected Cost:
To be determined
131
Objective 18
Objective 19
Objective 20
Objective 21
a. Local Funds
To be determined
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Project: Pursue innovative ways of partnering with private sector, School
District and adjacent communities to increase recreation opportunities for the
residents of the Township.
Time:
2010 - 2012
Projected Cost:
$10,000
a. Local Funds
$10,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Project: Reevaluate the need and benefits to establish a tree nursery to
supplement plantings on Township properties.
Time:
2011
Projected Cost:
$15,000
a. Local Funds
$15,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Project: Install tree planting at Township Park along north property line and
within center of ball fields. The tree plantings in the center of the ball
diamonds should be planted in a tight and close proximity of each other. This
will permit the trees to grow creating a setting of ball fields build into a
wooded area.
Time:
2011
Projected Cost:
$15,000
a. Local Funds
$15,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Project: Study locating an ice skating area near the Township Park pavilion
to make better use of pavilion and the fireplace during winter months. Study
should evaluate best location, method of producing ice surface and the cost
benefit ratio for the project.
Time:
2011
Projected Cost:
$9,000
a. Local Funds
$9,000
b. MNRTF
-
132
Objective 22
Objective 23
Objective 24
Objective 25
Objective 26
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Project: Complete a linkage study. The intent of the study is to recognize and
define important destination points in the Township and adjacent
communities. After the discovery phase, evaluate how these areas could be
linked (walks, paths, new I-275 bake path.
Time:
2011 - 2012
Projected Cost:
$20,000
a. Local Funds
$20,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Project: Construct an additional pavilion at the top of the sled hill to service
and warm sledders and provide water, restrooms and refreshments for all
diamond activities.
Time:
2013
Projected Cost:
$80,000 to $100,000
a. Local Funds
$80,000 to $100,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Project: Have a study conducted to show cost and best location to construct
a permanent clubhouse/community building to be located between the golf
course and the park.
Time:
2011
Projected Cost:
$15,000
a. Local Funds
$15,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Project: Continue to work with the ARC (Alliance of Rouge Communities) as a
permit agency to deal with clean water issues.
Time:
2005-2007
Projected Cost:
$50,000
a. Local Funds
$50,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Project: Work with Lake Pointe Homeowners Associations and adjacent
neighbors to develop a Master Plan for Brentwood Park.
133
Objective 27
Objective 28
Time:
2011
Projected Cost:
$7,000
a. Local Funds
$7,000
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Project: Evaluate expanding the use of Friendship Station beyond just seniors
Time:
2011-2012
Projected Cost:
$0
a. Local Funds
-
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
Have the Solid Waste and Public Service Coordinator conduct an in-house survey
and analysis of existing dog park facilities located within 30 miles of the Township.
The study should include as a minimum the location of the facility, the size of the
facility, the cost associated with establishing the facility, the cost of maintaining the
facility, the adjacent land uses, the rules and regulations governing the facility, how
the rules are enforced and any negative or positive aspects that have been defined
by the community.
Time:
2010-2011
Projected Cost:
$2,400 in-house staff time
a. Local Funds
$2,400
b. MNRTF
-
c. CDBG
-
d. Other
-
134
EXHIBIT 3
135
EXHIBIT 4
136
EXHIBIT 5
137
EXHIBIT 6
138
EXHIBIT 7
139
EXHIBIT 8
140
EXHIBIT 8
141
2010 Community Park, Recreation, Open Space and Greenway Plan
Summary of Public Comments
Date
Subject
Comment
6/21/10
Golf Course
The Township should not continue the
operation of the golf course.
9/14/10
Robinwood Easement
The easement from Robinwood to the 5.5
acres of undeveloped property to the west
may no longer exist.
9/22/10
Baseball Diamonds at
Improve the baseball diamonds and develop
Pioneer Middle School
the school site as a park with a school on it.
9/22/10
Development of the
Have the Association, School District and
Farrand Elementary
neighbors work toward redeveloping the
School site
school site.
9/22/10
Bike Path Connectivity
The Township should investigate perimeter
at Lake Pointe
sidewalk connections in Planning Unit 47 and
work toward improving the disconnections,
understanding that some areas may be limited
due to easement issues.
9/22/10
Development of
The Homeowners Association is interested in
Brentwood Park
developing a ball diamond and other uses. A
Master Plan should be developed for the site.
9/22/10
Township Park tables at Discontinue the park table reservation policy
Shelter No. 2
for the Shelter No. 2 and have the two tables
per person rule re-established.
9/22/10
“Dog-Friendly” Parks
Consider designating one of the parks as
"dog-friendly." Dog owners would be required
to keep their pets on a leash and dog clean up
equipment could be provided at the park
entrance.
9/22/10
Safety Paths at the High The paths to the High School along
School
McClumpha Road between Ann Arbor and
Joy Roads are disconnected. The Township
should investigate the safety path
connections.
9/22/10
Tree Loss at Township
Suggestion that the Township secure
Park
extended warranties on newly planted trees
and establish a watering contract with the
installer to achieve better survivability.
9/22/10
Park Maintenance and
Concern about the difference in the park
Regulations
staff's maintenance of the parks and
emergency response and follow through now
that there is limited adult supervision
9/22/10
Safety Paths at the
The Township should investigate and improve
Southeast Corner of
the sidewalk linkage in this area.
McClumpha and Ann
Arbor Trail
EXHIBIT 8
142
2010 Community Park, Recreation, Open Space and Greenway Plan
Summary of Public Comments
Date
Subject
Comment
9/22/10
The role of energy
The Township should incorporate the most
conservation in the Plan energy-conscious thinking in its future park
plans.
9/22/10
Household Hazardous
Household hazardous waste day is an
Waste Day
important service that should continue within
the Township.
9/22/10
Household Hazardous
The Township should investigate whether
Waste Day accepted
steel and other metals could be accepted on
materials
Household Hazardous Waste Day.
9/22/10
Township Green Space
All the green space that has been maintained
within the Township is appreciated.
9/22/10
Dog Parks are not
Dog owners are a portion of the community
addressed in the Plan
that is being left out of the Plan. Dog parks
are an increasing trend at the local level and
many of the surrounding communities have
successful and well-used dog parks.
9/22/10
Dog Parks should be
Suggestion that a survey should be conducted
considered for the Plan
in order to identify the number of potential dog
park users within the Township along with a
study of the costs and benefits of having a
dog park.
9/22/10
Township spending on
Concern about the amount of money spent on
parks
the parks in this economic climate.
EXHIBIT 8
143
EXHIBIT 8
144
EXHIBIT 8
145
EXHIBIT 8
146
EXHIBIT 9
147
EXHIBIT 10
148
peop
THE
CH
PLYMOUTH
AR
LEGEND
CREEK
KEY OPEN SPACE CORRIDOR/ROADWAY
lAKE
KEY OPEN SPACE CORRIDOR/EXPRESSWAY
STORM DETENTION
KEY OPEN SPACE CORRIDOR
ANN ARBOR ROAD COMMERCIAL CENTER
TE
MINOR COMMUNITY ENTRY
MAIN COMMUNITY cOMMERCIAL ENTRY
north
SCALE IN FEET
MAJOR COMMUNITY ENTRY
MAIN COMMUNITY ENTRY/NON-COMMERCIAL
0
400FT
800FT
1,600FT
2,400FT
3,200FT
p
y
rit
rio
MAP NO 1 - Key Water, Detention and Open Space Areas
C H A R T E R T O W N S H I P O F P L Y M O U T H, W A Y N E C O U N T Y, M I C H I G A N
le • ou
r
R
OF
TOW
N S HI P
Graphics Prepared: September 2010
By:
Mary Bruce
Administrative Assistant
Under the direction of:
James D. Anulewicz
mbruce$ on ‘ptfs01’(H:)\Masters\Maps\2010 Recreation Plan
4.7
27
Phoenix
Lake
9.300
30
3
9.300
8.51g
8.51h
C
&
RA
IL
RO
6.14
3
3
9.300
8.51h
O
47
37
38
9.306
AD
4.6
8.51h
8.51i
6.15
8.51d
9.300
6.17
6.15
8.51c
8.38
36
8.51d
8.51f
8.51e
8.39
8.51k
3
39
6.20
8.38
9.304
M-14
8.51a
31
8.51a
8.38
32
8.51b
29
40
3
M-14
3
44
Wilcox Lake
6.16
8.51l
34
8.50
46
8.51j
8.36
8.40
28
8.40
50
6.18
26
5.3
33
3
9.305
42
8.25
8.35
8.41
5.1
M-14
8.41
8.41
8.35
8.35
8.33
8.35
7.21
8.35
43
49
4.9
8.34
8.41
51
41 45
8.41
8.41
8.41
I-275
8.36
8.48
25
3
35
8.50
8.48
52
M-14
8.50
8.48
48
6.17
6.12
8.35
19
8.41
23
6.10
8.34
8.32
9.303
6.10
4.8
24
6.10
8.42
8.42
8.33
6.10
8.32
I-275
8.32
6.10
3.1
8.42
8.42
20
21
8.33
8.32
8.42
8.29
3
22
7.22
8.24
8.47
8.47
11
8.29
8.43
8.47
6.13
8.29
8.31
8.46
5
8.43
8.24
5.4
8.47
8.47
8.47
8.47
4.5
7.23
7
8.31
8.31
5.2
13
6.19
8.29
9.301
17
15
8.29
8.26
9.302
8.29
8.26
8.43
1
8.43
8.30
8.26
8.30
8.43
4.2
8.37
8.26
8.44
4.3
8.49
8.37
I-275
6.11
8.27
8.27
8.27
8.26
8.30
8.28
8.45
8.45
8.43
8.43
2
8.26
4
8.28
8.45
8.44
8
12
9 10
14
16
4.1
MAP NO 2 - PLANNING UNIT DESIGNATION
INVENTORY & RECREATION LAND ANALYSIS
peop
CH
AR
DESIGNATES THE LIMITS OF THE PLANNING UNITS
R
OF
TOW
N S HI P
SCHOOL DISTRICT
north
DESIGNATES THE PLANNING UNIT NUMBER (1, 2, 3 ETC.)
PLYMOUTH TOWNSHIP OWNED LANDS
Graphics Prepared: September 2010
By:
Mary Bruce
Administrative Assistant
Under the direction of:
James D. Anulewicz
PLYMOUTH
TE
LEGEND
PRIVATE OPEN SPACE WITH R.U.D. OR CLUSTER DEVELOPMENTS
p
y
rit
rio
THE
C H A R T E R T O W N S H I P O F P L Y M O U T H, W A Y N E C O U N T Y, M I C H I G A N
1
le • ou
r
3
WAYNE COUNTY PARK
PRIVATE/PUBLICOWNED RECREATION FACILITIES
SCALE IN FEET
0
400FT
800FT
1,600FT
2,400FT
3,200FT
mbruce$ on ‘ptfs01’(H:)\Masters\Maps\2010 Recreation Plan
4.4
18

COMMUNITY PARK, RECREATION, OPEN SPACE and

Transcription

Similar documents

The Penn Township Campus Landscaping Beautification Project

PC Minutes - Warwick Township

Township of Wall Regional Bike Path Central Section Map Map 3 of

Ski Trip to Mad River Mountain with ODR

Loyalist Township - County of Lennox and Addington

HOMEBUYER PROGRAM

Untitled - Earth Day and Arbor Day

cjbarymores.com - CJ Barrymore`s

Spinal Column - Highland-White Lake Business Association

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program