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Council reallocates leftover CDBG funds to Boland Park inclusive play structure and approves Bowen Park improvements
Summary
Council approved reprogramming leftover CDBG PY2024 funds to the Boland Park inclusive play structure, accepted a $250,000 Oakland County Parks grant to expand work, and awarded low bids for Bowen Park improvements (phases 1 and 2) with a June 30 completion requirement.
Troy City Council on March 2 approved reprogramming remaining Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) PY2024 funds to the Boland Park Inclusive Play Structure project and later awarded construction contracts to advance Bowen Park improvements, including stormwater and path work.
Courtney Flynn, communications director, and Kurt Bovin, public works director, explained that the Lakeview mid‑block crossing project came in under budget and left a remainder of CDBG funds. Staff requested reprogramming the balance to the Boland Park inclusive play structure; staff noted play equipment has already been purchased and is in city possession (SEG 055–064, 1850–1856).
Bovin said the city also secured a $250,000 grant from Oakland County Parks that expands the work and allowed the project to be bid for phases 1 and 2, which include the first play structure installation, pathways, fencing and stormwater/drainage improvements. The recommended contractor (the same firm that built recent pickleball courts) was required to complete the contract by June 30 (SEG 1866–1879, 1948–1966). Bovin said CDBG reimbursements will cover most costs beyond the county grant.
Council members discussed maintenance and community engagement. Council member Chamberlain highlighted direct engagement with the Arc of Oakland County and said that involving future park users and parents helped shape the design. “Able‑bodied people shouldn’t be the ones designing this park,” the DPW director said, noting outreach to disability advocates and parents (SEG 1899–1912).
The council approved the CDBG reprogramming (E1) and separately approved the low‑bid award and budget amendment for Bowen Park improvements (I6). Council also approved a separate purchasing resolution to accept bid waiver and training services for digital accessibility and a police budget amendment tied to radar trailer procurement in the same meeting.
Next steps: contractor mobilization for Bowen Park phase 1 and 2 with a June 30 completion requirement for the awarded contract; staff will pursue additional CDBG funding in future cycles to complete remaining inclusive park amenities including restroom renovations and respite areas.
