The City of Sterling Heights is celebrating the re-opening of the Clinton River for recreational use with the inaugural Canoe the Clinton event on Saturday, July 8.
The City is partnering with Clinton River Canoe & Kayak for Canoe the Clinton, the first paddling event since the federally-funded $4.5 million river restoration project was undertaken in 2016. This event will allow participants to paddle a family-friendly 2.5 mile stretch of the Clinton River from Edison Court to Rotary Park. Paddling times are estimated between 45 minutes for those experienced in canoeing/kayaking to 90 minutes for newcomers. Guides will accompany all participants to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
The itinerary for Canoe the Clinton starts with participant arrival at Dodge Park between 9 and 10 a.m. Shuttles will transport participants to the launch site off Edison Court, east of Schoenherr Road. Pick-up will occur at the Rotary Park landing immediately west of Hayes Road. Following transport back to Dodge Park, there will be a light lunch (hot dogs, chips and pop) served to all participants. All registered participants will receive an event T-shirt.
The cost to register is $35 per canoe and $30 per kayak. A $10 per-person registration fee is added and covers transportation, food, beverage, and T-shirt. Please be advised that kayaks hold one adult (singles) and a canoe will hold two adults and one small child (maximum). For those who own a canoe or kayak and want to participate in the event, the registration fee is only $15.
To register, go to www.sterling-heights.net/canoetheclinton and click “Family Field Trips” to choose your registration type. Registration prior to July 1 is encouraged.
Canoe the Clinton is made possible by a $4.5 million grant from the United States Environmental Protection Agency to improve existing and create new habitat diversity for river wildlife, alleviate bank erosion, manage and remove log jams, and improve navigability of the Clinton River for canoeists and kayakers.
To date, approximately 5 of the 9 miles of river have received tree removal, bank stabilization, woody debris removal, and installation of natural features that create a habitat conducive to wildlife, particularly fish. The final stretch of four miles of river will be completed this summer.
The City emphasizes that this is simply the beginning for the rebirth of the Clinton River. The City is actively engaged in the development of a Master Plan for the Clinton River, which will promote the river as an asset for all residents. The Master Plan assures that the full potential of the Clinton River is realized.
“This project is the fulfillment of the City’s vision for creating a vibrant, active, and distinctive quality of life in Sterling Heights,” said Mayor Michael Taylor. “Restoring the Clinton River to its full potential creates one more reason to live and recreate in Sterling Heights.”
Sterling Heights City Manager Mark Vanderpool said the City plans to celebrate the benefits of parks and recreation amenities and programs, including the Clinton River project.
“The evidence supporting the benefits of parks, recreation, and physical activities is overwhelming,” Vanderpool said. “This project is consistent with the whole Recreating Recreation initiative that strives to create new ways for our residents to connect with the City. Restoring this river and opening it for recreational uses in the middle of a large city is a fantastic place making opportunity that our community can embrace.”
Media with further questions can contact Community Relations Director Bridget Kozlowski at bkoz@sterling-heights.net or (586) 446-2471.