Proposal includes developments in Oakland County

Oakland County state lawmakers Reps. John Reilly and Michael Webber today voted in favor of a plan allocating funds for two separate developments of the Paint Creek Trail as part of wide-ranging legislation advancing through the Michigan House.

Webber and Reilly helped secure $228,400 to develop the Northern Trailhead for the Paint Creek Trail in Oakland Township, which will provide a new access point, parking and rest facilities for trail users to enjoy the scenic statewide Iron Belle Trail system.

“Many Oakland County residents and thousands of tourists from across the state come to Paint Creek Trail to enjoy our area’s natural beauty and take part in our community’s events,” said Webber, of Rochester Hills. “This project benefits Oakland Township’s economy and businesses, and gives our community the opportunity to share our recreational offerings.”

Reilly and Webber also secured $300,000 for Orion Township to develop additional trail along the south side of East Clarkston Road to connect to the Paint Creek Trail near Kern Road. The project will fill a critical gap in the Iron Belle Trail route, and connect the Polly Ann Trail with the Paint Creek Trail. A Transportation Alternatives Grant Program through the Michigan Department of Transportation will also be supporting the project.

“When complete, visitors will be able to roam pristine pathways and boardwalks over Oakland County’s most-cherished wetlands and forested land,” said Reilly, of Oakland Township. “The Paint Creek Trail junction will connect trail users to a variety of alternative paths and bring in more visitors to support Orion Township.”

The full plan includes $26 million for 34 recreational development projects and 30 acquisition projects statewide. The project investments outlined in the proposal were recommended by the Natural Resources Trust Fund Board in December. Recommendations are subject to approval by the Michigan Legislature, a process recently started within the House Appropriations Committee.

Money in the Natural Resources Trust Fund comes from the development of minerals on state land and is designated on an annual basis in partnership with local governments.

House Bill 4244 advances to the Senate for further consideration.