09/09/2024
is committed to creating and maintaining outdoor spaces that are for all ages and abilities.
In recent years we have focused on expanding trails for hiking, biking and kayaking and added new fitness activities like pickleball and archery. We’ve made sure these activities are available to everyone by offering adaptive kayak launches, paved trails and an accessible 90’ foot area at the archery range. Equipment like hand cycles and single rider golf carts are available in the parks as well.
Our Quiet Zone tent, a sensory inclusive space where individuals can take a break from unwanted sensory input, is featured at large-scale Oakland County Parks events. We are also proud of our Adaptive Recreation programming that offers year-round opportunities for those with physical disabilities and individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
Great things are happening in your parks, but there is still much work to do.
On Nov. 5, Oakland County voters will decide a ballot proposal that asks for authorization to replace OCP’s current 0.35 millage set to expire in 2029 with a new 0.65 millage that would expire in 2043. If approved, the net 0.30 increased rate will generate approximately $24 million annually. The impact of the net rate increase for the owner of a home with the county’s average residential taxable value would be $40 a year.
Some of these funds will go toward expanding accessible features and outdoor recreation opportunities throughout Oakland County.
Plans are to partner with local communities to renew aging neighborhood parks by replacing deteriorating playground equipment and adding new universally accessible features.
To learn more about the OCP ballot proposal and accessibility in the parks, click here: https://bit.ly/2024_Millage.
