The City of Melvindale received Spark grant funding administered by the Council of Michigan Foundations through a partnership with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to enhance recreation opportunities at Kessey Fieldhouse, located at 4300 S Dearborn St, Melvindale, MI 48122.
Kessey Fieldhouse is the cornerstone of the community. It is a regional facility located on the Rouge River. It houses a banquet hall, indoor turf fields, concession stand, offices, disc golf and boat launch. This project will build exterior access bathrooms, an ADA compliant kayak/canoe launch, and a pavilion with picnic tables and game table area for year-round use.
With this project, an ADA compliant paddling launch area will be constructed along with a concrete boat ramp. Existing asphalt that has deteriorated will be replaced with concrete for the boat launch and perimeter access. Concrete is necessary so heavy load trucks and their boats do not damage the parking lot nor vehicles. By enhancing the boat entry, residents will be able to load small boats onto the Rouge River and enjoy their community in new ways.
Lighting in the parking lot will be updated for increased safety. The greenspace will be enhanced with the addition of a pre-engineered picnic pavilion, seating and play equipment as well as an outdoor game area.
This project will also include renovations to the Fieldhouse to include two universal design restrooms that will be accessible from the rear of the building for park attendees. The City proposes to improve park amenities in such a way that guests of all ages and abilities feel at home.
In coordination with this project, the City of Melvindale plans to build a storage and operations building to be the site for kayak/canoe rentals. It will house kayaks, canoes, paddles and life vests as well as seating for guests and a staff break area. The City’s goal is to have 10 canoes, 20 single person kayaks and 10 two-seater kayaks for rent to begin the program.
