The City of Sterling Heights broke ground on Red Run Park on May 5, beginning construction of a new park in the southern part of the community. The project is funded by the Pathway to Play and Preservation millage, a 0.95-mill investment aimed at expanding parks, preserving open space, and improving quality of life for residents.
Mayor Michael C. Taylor said, “This project represents exactly what residents envisioned when they supported the Pathway to Play and Preservation millage. Red Run Park will bring new energy, new opportunities and new connections to this part of our city, while creating a space that is accessible, welcoming and built for everyone.”
The development addresses a gap in neighborhood park access in this area. Planning began in 2023 with ongoing feedback from residents shaping the design to meet current needs and future demand. The completed park will feature six lighted pickleball courts, a dedicated dog park serving the east side of the city, a lighted basketball court, interior non-motorized trails, a rentable pavilion with gathering spaces, year-round restrooms with enhanced accessibility features including an adult changing station, as well as a themed dinosaur play structure designed for accessibility.
Additional amenities include a 24-hour public library kiosk providing continuous access to materials and services. Parks and Recreation Director Kyle Langlois said: “This has been a thoughtful and strategic process from the start. We looked at where we had gaps across the city and what residents were asking for, and built a park that not only fills those needs but introduces new and innovative amenities that will serve the community for years to come.”
Red Run Park also plays an important role in completing the final segment of Michigan’s Iron Belle Trail system—further connecting Sterling Heights residents to regional outdoor recreation opportunities.
Construction is expected to begin this month with an anticipated opening planned for late fall 2026 if weather allows. The $7 million investment reflects Sterling Heights’ focus on sustainability, accessibility, community infrastructure improvements—and continues its tradition as one of Michigan’s key planned communities offering heritage awareness programs dating back to prehistoric times alongside modern resources such as libraries, parks programs for all ages,and historical preservation efforts,according to the official website.
