“Redford is very welcoming,” he describes. “We’re diverse, and we have neighbors that like to work together. We work really hard to make sure that our community stays engaged in what’s going on, because if they’re engaged, it belongs to them as well as us.” GROWING WITH INTENTION With more than 90 percent of the township already developed, Redford is focusing on creative reuse of existing properties and using available opportunities for strategic investment. Federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding brought a major boost to the township. “We put money in capital improvements,” McRae expands. “We put some money into the Rec and Wellness Center, and some money into our CSO basin. We maximized our money, and we went into partnership with the county so that our ARPA dollars stretched and gave us more availability. And we’ve worked with the state and the federal government to bring in funds that may be available to help us do other things here as well.” One of the township’s most exciting projects is the new Recreation and Wellness Center. “It’s been a lengthy process,” shares Theresa Stokes, Director of Leisure Services.“This is probably one of the largest capital improvement projects we’ve taken on in a long time here in Redford Township. We wanted to make sure that we did it the right way, and that we had the buy-in and input from our residents.” The process began with a feasibility study, where staff and community input was a priority. This included targeted focus groups, open community sessions, and discussions held during board and study meetings. “We wanted to make sure that if we’re spending this kind of money, the residents are going to want to utilize the facility,” explains Stokes. “We just came upon our one year with construction, and we are definitely on target and within budget.” A strong team consisting of construction management, architects and the township have been crucial to the success of the project. “That group works really well together, and we were able to take the time to bid out all of the trades. We had some significant 99 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 08 REDFORD TOWNSHIP, MI
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