Sterling Heights updates voters’ Pathways to Play & Preservation projects: property acquisitions, tree plantings, Red Run Park groundbreaking and athletic hub

City development and parks staff updated council on Pathways to Play & Preservation (PPP) projects funded by the voter‑approved millage, reporting land purchases, tree canopy targets and near‑term park construction timelines.

Jason Caster said the city purchased multiple parcels near Udica and Hayes for preservation, adding roughly 20 acres to city‑held open space. Staff emphasized priorities identified by residents — wetlands, large parcels and tree canopy — and said the city now owns about 44 acres of contiguous parkland in the area targeted for passive preservation.

Parks staff said the city will continue reforestation efforts under PPP and related grants, aiming to plant roughly 2,200–3,200 trees annually as contractor capacity allows. "Our long‑term goal is to reach 40% citywide canopy," Caster said, noting the current canopy is approximately 18–23%.

On capital projects, staff announced a contract award for Red Run Park and a May 5 groundbreaking; the park includes pavilions, a restroom, EV‑equipped parking, six lighted pickleball courts, a second dog park and non‑motorized trails. Parks Director Kyle Langlo also previewed the Sterling Heights Athletic Hub, an indoor pickleball and table‑tennis facility, with specialty sport surfacing and acoustic treatments and a target grand opening in mid‑late June or early July 2026.

Council asked about operations, noise‑mitigation measures and how the new hub would affect pickleball programming at other city facilities; parks staff said the hub will expand overall capacity while preserving opportunities for play at the community and senior centers.