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Green infrastructure was used throughout the space at Optimist Park in Roseville.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
ROSEVILLE — There’s a new park in town where residents can relax on a bench, enjoy a walking path and take in the beauty of native plants.
On Oct. 14, city officials and members of the Roseville Optimist Club gathered to dedicate the club’s Optimist Park, located on the south side of Martin Road between Van Howe and Lasslett streets. The Eastpointe-Roseville Chamber of Commerce coordinated the dedication ceremony.
The park was formerly known as Roseville Kiwanis Park, but after the group dissolved, the Roseville Optimist Club took over the grounds and made several updates this past year. The Roseville Optimist Club, founded in 1992, is a service organization that helps the youth of Roseville and the surrounding area.
The park improvements were made possible through a $100,000 state appropriation grant that state Sen. Veronica Klinefelt, D-Eastpointe, secured. A total of $65,000 was earmarked for the Optimist Park updates. Green infrastructure was used throughout the space. There is also a playscape and a swing set.
Sandi Maki, Eastpointe-Roseville Chamber of Commerce Events coordinator, said that a pollinator garden and a rain garden were installed. Signs were placed on-site to teach the public more about pollination, water diversion and more.
“All of the plants in this space are native and sourced locally. The garden paths are made of permeable pavement. Everything has been done very thoughtfully with environmental education in mind,” Maki said. “The native trees are varying Michigan species and will also have interpretive signage for visitors of all ages to learn about their significance.”
A lot of work went into beautifying the park, and city officials were pleased with the results.
“On behalf of Mayor (Robert) Taylor and the City Council of Roseville, I’d like to thank first and foremost the Optimist Club and Sen. Klinefelt for the generous appropriation for this park,” City Manager Ryan Monroe said. “I’m very happy to see this is the first of many parks that’s going to be upgraded in the city of Roseville.”
Sean Mueller, Michigan district governor of the Optimist Club, thanked the Roseville Optimist Club for its contribution to the community.
“This moment is not just a ceremony but heartfelt recognition of the tireless efforts of a club that has been a beacon of hope and positivity,” Mueller said. “This park is not only a space for recreation, but it will stand as a symbol of hope, positivity and community spirit.”
During the ceremony, Phil Rode, district director for U.S. Rep. John James, R-Shelby Township, presented Roseville Optimist Club President Michelle Williams-Ward with a certificate of appreciation.
“We love our community especially with the redevelopment of their parks and places for families to go and enjoy themselves,” Rode said. “The native pollinator garden is going to be great for kids. That’s phenomenal what you’ve done here, and thank you to the state.”
According to city officials, the Macomb County Department of Planning & Economic Development provided a grant to plant new trees, and the city of Roseville funded the paving and expansion of the parking area. The remaining $35,000 of the appropriation grant was set aside for the city of Fraser.
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