Rochester Hills Receives $40K Grant for Riverbend Park

From the City of Rochester Hills: The City of Rochester Hills was recently selected to receive a total of $40,000 in monetary support and in-kind donations, to develop the new sensory garden that will be a key feature in Riverbend Park.

This 5,000 square foot garden will be comprised of two different areas––a student designed and maintained space and a professionally designed sensory garden. The garden will include areas specifically devoted to local schools. Providing students the opportunity to learn the elements of ecology such as native plants, soil erosion, and pollination.

The garden will also serve the public as a recreational sensory garden. The natural elements playground immediately adjacent to the garden will be designed with sensitivity to children with special needs.

“We believe that gardens and greenspaces have the power to positively transform our cities,” said Jim Hagedorn, ScottsMiracle-Gro Chairman and CEO. “We’re honored to work with the U.S. Conference of Mayors to bring more public greenscapes to communities across the U.S. and their residents.”

As his key priority, Mayor Bryan K. Barnett has worked with a number of community members and donors to make Riverbend Park a unique regional attraction for the Rochester Hills residents. The GRO1000 Award is the second successful grant received by Rochester Hills in the last 30 days.

“We’re excited to see the strong support the Park is receiving in our community and at the national level,” states Barnett. “I look forward to working with Scotts Miracle Gro to provide this innovative outdoor classroom for our residents.”

Established in 1984, the City of Rochester Hills is a prosperous community offering residents and businesses superior services. Voted one of the top places to live by several sources including CNN Money magazine, Rochester Hills is committed to sustaining its position among the nation’s preeminent places to live, work and raise a family. Through the city’s focus on health, education, and technology; the community continues to attract forward-thinking leaders and businesses.

Photo courtesy of the City of Rochester Hills