Site Master Plan
The Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission is in the process of updating the Independence Lake County Park Site Master Plan. The plan will be used to guide the sustainable development of the park over the next ten years. The park’s natural setting provides an opportunity for unique nature-based recreation, which will be accomplished through intentional design decisions, developing four-season amenities, and offering a variety of programs and events.
Park Planning
The last site master plan was developed in 2010. Since that time, the most significant development was construction of Blue Heron Bay Spray Park. Furthermore, several maintenance issues were addressed, such as boardwalk replacement, and general infrastructure development occurred, including fiber for internet/phone and construction of new gatehouses.
In November 2020, County Parks staff began preparing the new site master plan. The planning process includes multiple site visits, staff discussions, and evaluating maps, site inventories, and other historical documents. It also considers recreation trends and draws from the 2018 Washtenaw County Needs Assessment. Additionally, input from park patrons will be vital to the plan's success.
Public Input
On June 9, 2021, at 7pm, staff held a virtual public Community Input Session on the initial park concepts. A recording (partial) of the meeting and a PDF of the PPT is available below. A poster was also placed at the Park Headquarters (Beach Center) to provide patrons an additional opportunity to comment.
Public Input Session Recording (partial)
Public Input Session PDF
Adoption
After reviewing public comments, staff refined the plan and integrated suggestions into the final draft, as appropriate. On October 12, 2021, staff presented the the final draft to the Parks and Recreation Commission, which was adopted unanimously.
Site Master Plan (Map)
Adopted Site Master Plan Report
For more information, please email [email protected].