Ferndale planning commission reviews Martin Road Park service building, splash‑pad restrooms and grant funding

The City of Ferndale Planning Commission heard a presentation Wednesday on planned improvements at Martin Road Park that the parks department says are fully grant funded and will add a service building with restrooms, concessions, storage, a small staff office and improved accessible connections.

Parks and recreation staff presented a site plan and timeline and told commissioners the project has secured $2,100,000 in funding from several grants and is expected to go to bid by late October or early November, with construction beginning in winter and finishing by the grant deadline (before Oct. 1 of the following year, staff said).

Lorena, parks and recreation staff, told the commission the new building will house men’s, women’s and a family restroom; a concession area and mechanical room; storage for splash‑pad and park equipment; and a small office for staff. “We got $2,100,000, from MB and R spark grant, HUD grant, as well as the Michigan community enhancement grant,” Lorena said. She added the design preserves green space and limits tree removal while improving ADA connections between parking, paths and the park amenities.

The…