Pontiac’s Hawthorne Park to Become Pontiac Oaks, Public Meetings Scheduled
(OCP, Aug. 17, 2023)
Pontiac, MI – Oakland County Parks (OCP) and the City of Pontiac have entered into a partnership agreement aimed at rejuvenating and maintaining Hawthorne Park located on 77-acres at 1400 North Telegraph Road in the City of Pontiac. Under the terms of the Pontiac Oaks Partnership agreement, Oakland County will invest more than $1.5 million to improve park facilities and assume long-term responsibility for park management and maintenance. The City of Pontiac will retain ownership of the park property and provide guidance to OCP regarding park management. All park visitors will continue to enjoy free entry. Hawthorne Park will be renamed Pontiac Oaks in conjunction with the transition of park management on Oct. 1, 2023.
OCP and the City of Pontiac invite residents of the city and the surrounding area to provide their input regarding the future of Hawthorne Park, and their priorities for the rejuvenation project, at several free upcoming open houses and family fun events. Those who are unable to attend the events can complete an online survey to share their feedback (bit.ly/Hawthorne_Survey).
- Monday, Aug. 21, 6-8 p.m. and Saturday, Aug. 26, 1-3 p.m.
Open Houses – Attendees will learn more about Hawthorne Park and can share their input on its future by visiting staffed stations with maps of Hawthorne Park as well as information about its history and the nature found in the park. Attendees can identify their priorities and vote for their favorite park amenities. Residents are invited to share their own stories of being at the park with OCP. Comment cards and paper copies of the online survey will also be available. Light refreshments will be provided.
- Tuesday, Aug. 22, 5-7:30 p.m.
“See Ya! Summer” – Join the fun at this end-of-summer bash. Activities include inflatables (socks required), a climbing wall, face painting, balloon artists, a DJ and more.
- Friday, Sept. 29, 5-7:30 p.m.
“Wheels & Squeals” – Pump the brakes to check out the vehicles used by Oakland County and the City of Pontiac at this fun Touch-A-Truck event.
“Our partnership with Pontiac is opening new doors for Oakland County Parks to better serve the needs of the residents in the city and surrounding communities,” said OCP Director Chris Ward. “Input from the public will play a major role in shaping decisions and priorities as we work together to create a welcoming and revitalized park for the enjoyment of all.”
“This is an exciting opportunity for Pontiac and our residents,” Pontiac Mayor Tim Greimel said. “The park will remain city-owned with free admission, and Oakland County Parks will invest millions of dollars into park upgrades while assuming all responsibility for day-to-day maintenance. In short, this park will be substantially improved, and city resources will be freed up for enhancements to other city parks.”
The Pontiac Oaks Partnership was made possible under Oakland County’s Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan, a $20.2 million program aimed at enhancing park and recreation opportunities for residents of all ages and abilities located in moderate to low-income areas utilizing American Rescue Plan Act funds matched by OCP. Additional long-term park partnerships are planned in the City of Oak Park, the City of Southfield and the City of Madison Heights.
Hawthorne Park is known for its beautiful trees, natural areas and access to Creger Lake and Upper Silver Lake. Recreational features include a fishing pier, boat ramp, pavilion, playground and disc golf course. This summer, OCP has begun work addressing high priority park facility and maintenance issues.
For more information about Oakland County Parks, visit OaklandCountyParks.com. Join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram and X.
For more things to do, visit the Oakland County Times Event Page!
To submit event info email editor@oc115.com .
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