Troy Planning Commission approves plans for 70-acre Turtle Woods Park

Troy Planning Commission members voted unanimously on October 27 to approve the preliminary site plan for Turtle Woods County Park.

The 70-acre site sits north of Square Lake Road between John R and Dequindre roads. Troy School District originally bought the land in the 1950s for nature education. Oakland County Parks now manages the property after securing a nearly $2.2 million grant from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund. The county intends to keep the area focused on ecology lessons.

The approved plan details changes to a 1.67-acre parcel connected to the north side of the main site. Ben Carslisle, a consultant for Carlisle Wortman & Associates, outlined the physical additions. He listed off-street parking, a passive lawn, restrooms, a rain garden, a dumpster enclosure, and new walkways leading to the trail. The project will add 31 parking spots. The rest of the property will keep its natural look.

Lynn Whipple, a representative from the PEA Group, explained the goal is to formalize the trail system for better access. The group is adding signage to make wetland areas more comfortable for visitors. Whipple noted the park contains a rare lake plain prairie. She said only 1 percent of that habitat remains in the region. The design will include educational elements to inform the community about this specific ecosystem.

Commissioners raised questions about light pollution and plant impacts during the meeting. Tyler Fox, a commissioner, cited Milverton Park, where he lives nearby. He noted that park has no lighting or major safety features and operates without issues. Fox stated he has had no problems living next to that unlit park. He said he is inclined to trust the county’s long history with parks if they believe the site does not need lights.

John Tagle, another commissioner, argued for limited lighting in public spaces. He clarified he does not want to light 71 acres of trail. He suggested lighting sidewalks, curbs, and entry points. Tagle proposed using bollard lights that sit 36 inches above the pavement. He explained these fixtures create localized light on the walking surface.

The commission approved the plan with three specific requirements. They asked for a photometric plan to balance public safety with the natural setting. They also requested color and material samples for the restroom. Finally, they asked for lighting that works with the environment. Construction is expected to start in spring 2027. The park could open as early as fall 2026. More information is available at oaklandcountymi.gov.