Beaumont cuts ribbon on trail expansion
It was under a blue sky Wednesday that Sterling HeightsMayorMichael Taylor along with members of the Sterling Heights Parks and Recreation Department and BeaumontHospital Troy cut the red ribbon for its most recent trail expansion.
The expansion is one of the latest enrichments in partnership with Beaumont to connect the Sterling Heights Nature Trail to the hospital’s campus.
“It is very exciting tobring another cornerstone project from the Recreating Recreation plan to completion,” said Kyle Langlois, Sterling Heights parks and recreation director. “The northwest section of our city previously lacked convenient access toanacceptableamount of non-motorized trails, and I am happy to be part of reversing that position.”
The Sterling Heights NatureTrail is a 2-mile and 10feet wide, soft-surfaced trail that connects the park to the Beaumont Troy hospital campus, providing a much needed recreational amenity to the residents, especially those near the Plumbrook and Gibson drain.
Being a nonmotorized trail golf carts, ATVs, snowmobiles and dirt bikes are not permitted, making it a great resource for walkers, runners, and bicyclists alike, and although the path is soft-surfaced, strollers and wheelchairs can traverse the trail.
“Beaumont understands the importance of serving the health needs of the community and is very pleased to partner with Sterling Heights on this nature trail. Promoting a healthy and active community is a priority for Beaumont. Exercise is so important to the overall well-being of the community and this trail will provide another venue for community members to get that exercise,” said Mark Leonard, chief operating officer at Beaumont Troy.
As part of the Recreating Recreation millage, the Nature Trail expansion continues the city’s mission to invest in creating recreational amenities that provide residents with year-round recreational opportunities. Respite locations are installed along the trail each including a bench, trash receptacle, and bike repair stations.
“Trails like this are imperative for the collective health and well-being of the residents in SterlingHeights, no matter if you are a serious athlete, someone looking to enjoy a casual walk with their dog, or anyone in between,” Langlois added.
The trail will be open along with normal park hours, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., April through September and 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. October through March.