The Oakland County Board of Commissioners gave final approval for a partnership between Oakland County Parks (OCP) and the city of Southfield to improve recreational opportunities for residents of Southfield and surrounding communities.
Under the terms of the agreement:
- OCP will repurpose a 39-acre portion of the former Beech Woods Golf Course as a nature-centered public park to be named Southfield Oaks County Park, which will be located adjacent to Southfield’s Beech Woods Park (near W. Nine Mile and Telegraph roads).
- A total investment of more than $7 million will be made at Beech Woods Park and Southfield Oaks County Park within three years to improve recreational amenities and restore natural features utilizing a combination of federal, county and city funding sources.
“Oakland County Parks continues to be a great partner to the city of Southfield as we work collectively together to expand recreational opportunities throughout Southfield and the County,” says Ken Siver, mayor of Southfield. “This partnership and investment in Beech Woods Park will greatly improve the amenities such as walking and hiking trails as well as the park’s infrastructure and access improvements.”
The 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 in communities hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The plan utilizes American Rescue Plan Act funds matched by OCP. A portion of these funds were dedicated toward the expansion of the Oakland County park system through long-term agreements with local governments to assume responsibility for the management of existing municipal parks.
Southfield Oaks will be located on the former 39-acre Beech Woods Golf Course, which closed in 2019. OCP plans to transform the property into a public park for people to relax, socialize, be active and immerse themselves in nature.
A budget of $2 million has been budgeted for this project. Southfield will retain ownership of the property and residents of the city will continue to enjoy free park entry. The 20-year renewal partnership agreement provides for collaborative decision-making and cost sharing between the parties.
Beech Woods Park is home to a popular recreation center, a golf driving range, tennis and volleyball courts, and a universally accessible playscape.
Planned improvements include the construction of a new playscape, four season restroom facilities, picnic shelters, and improved pedestrian walkways. The county will contribute $1.5 million to support these projects.
“The plan for Beech Woods Park in Southfield is another great example of how well Oakland County Parks is collaborating with communities to improve and expand the parks that make Oakland County such a unique and attractive place to call home,” says Dave Coulter, Oakland County Executive. “Our investment in the parks system is a key priority that helps fulfill our goals of creating livable, accessible neighborhoods that contribute to a more sustainable environment.”
For more information about Oakland County Parks, visit oaklandcountyparks.com.
