About Marathon Township Park

History of Marathon Township Park

Over the years the Marathon Township Board has recognized that a comprehensive and sustainable parks and recreation system is vital to their community’s physical and mental health, positive social interactions, protection of natural resources, and economic growth. To achieve these high standards the Township has been developing a community parks and recreation system and promoting their Township as a quality, sustainable place to live and play. This stems from the growing trends in recreation and the desire to be active, healthy and conscious of the environment.

In November of 2012 the Township established its first official Parks and Recreation Board under Public Act 156. The Board then established its first Parks and Recreation Master Plan following the planning guidelines of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR). This process involved various steps including public engagement workshops and surveys, an evaluation of community features and demographics, an inventory of existing local and regional recreation facilities, and finally establishing future goals and objectives. The plan was then submitted to the MDNR, Lapeer County Planning Department, and Regional Planning Commission. It was approved by the Township Board and MDNR in 2013 as well as subsequent plan updates in 2019.

Creation of this plan set the acquisition of 23 acres of vacant land into motion to become the Townships’ first Community Park. The property is located on the north side of Hollenbeck Road, just west of North Lake Road. The acquisition, completed in 2015, was made possible through a Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Grant and Township’s local match dollars.

Timeline

2012 – Parks and Recreation board established
2015 – Park property acquired
2019 – Paved access to the trailway provided by the Lapper County Road Commission
2021 – Brush cleared and trails created throughout park
2022 – Restrooms, handicap parking, and bike racks installed
2023 – Playground and pavilion installation, official Grand Opening event