Northville Parks & Recreation (NP&R) will celebrate the grand opening of its new headquarters on Thursday, July 16, marking more than the opening of an office. The project demonstrates how thoughtful stewardship can strengthen both the community and the environment.

The new headquarters, at 16225 Beck Road, south of Six Mile Road near Marv Gans Community Park, transforms the Township's former Water & Sewer headquarters into a modern home for Parks & Recreation. After Water & Sewer operations relocated to the new Essential Services Complex, the existing building was renovated rather than replaced, extending its useful life while creating a welcoming space to serve residents for years to come.

The public is invited to attend the grand opening from 4-6 p.m., with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 4:30 p.m.

From Utility to Community

"One of the core values of parks and recreation is stewardship," said Parks & Recreation Director Derek Smith. "That means caring for the land, investing wisely in community resources and planning for the future. Repurposing this building reflects those same values while creating a space that helps our team better serve the community."

Northville Township Supervisor Mark J. Abbo agrees.

“"The Township has always believed that great communities are built through thoughtful planning and careful management of public resources," Abbo said. "This project demonstrates our commitment to being good stewards of taxpayer dollars by giving an existing public asset new life. It's an investment that strengthens Parks & Recreation, supports sustainability and enhances the quality of life for residents."

Making Every Tax Dollar Count

The renovation was managed in-house by the Township's Facilities Management team and transformed the former Water & Sewer headquarters into a modern, collaborative workspace designed to support Parks & Recreation's growing operations.

The project also reflects the Township's commitment to making smart use of public resources. Rather than purchasing everything new, the renovation incorporated surplus carpet and building materials from the Essential Services Complex project and used furniture from the former Police Headquarters.

Managing the project in-house and strategically reusing Township assets is expected to save taxpayers approximately $320,000, including an estimated $250,000 in avoided consultant and construction management costs, $50,000 through reused materials and $20,000 through repurposed furniture. The total renovation cost was $510,000.

The building's improvements were designed to deliver long-term value as well. Upgrades include energy-efficient LED lighting, Energy Star appliances, low-flow plumbing fixtures, recycled-content ceiling tiles, sustainable flooring materials and reused furniture systems. Together, these improvements are expected to reduce the building's future energy costs by approximately 30%.

As a shared service between the City of Northville and Northville Township, Northville Parks & Recreation provides programs, events, parks and trails that enrich the lives of residents throughout the community. The new headquarters brings administrative and park staff together under one roof, improving daily collaboration, communication and coordination as the Department continues to expand its services.

Expanding Recreation Opportunities

The move also creates more recreation benefits. With administrative offices relocated, the former office space at Hillside is being converted into additional recreation space, allowing for more programs and activities.

The project reflects Northville Township's commitment to making thoughtful, sustainable investments that maximize existing community assets while supporting future growth.

"One of our pillars is ecological conservation and this building helps us do just that," Smith said.

Guests attending the grand opening will have an opportunity to tour the renovated facility.

Overflow parking will be available at the church adjacent to the facility.

For more information about Northville Parks & Recreation, visit www.northvilleparksandrec.org. 

About Northville Parks & Recreation
Northville Parks & Recreation is a shared service of the City of Northville and Northville Township, providing parks, recreation programs and community events that enhance quality of life. Guided by its principles to Create, Connect and Inspire, the Department promotes health and wellness, environmental stewardship and economic vitality for residents of all ages.