The Issue
Help create a continuous greenway that connects River Bends Park to Bloomer Park, improving safety and access for people who walk or bike between parks, neighborhoods, and the larger trail systems in Macomb and Oakland Counties.

Petition Summary
River Bends Park and Bloomer Park sit along the Clinton River, yet there is no safe, direct way to walk or bike between them. Instead, people are often forced onto busy roads or long detours, even though several parks are located close together.

This petition calls for a greenway connecting River Bends Park to Bloomer Park, with Holland Ponds Park and Gene Shepherd Park serving as key links. By adding safe crossings and improving existing trail segments, the community can strengthen regional connectivity, expand recreation opportunities, and link into major trails such as the Macomb Orchard Trail, Clinton River Trail, Paint Creek Trail, and Freedom Trail.

Why This Matters
River Bends Park, Holland Ponds Park, Gene Shepherd Park, and Bloomer Park all follow the Clinton River and form a natural corridor through the region. However, there is currently no safe, continuous route for people to travel between these parks on foot or by bicycle. As a result, users must rely on busy roads and long detours, which discourages use and limits access.

The largest challenge is the lack of a safe, direct connection between River Bends Park and Holland Ponds Park. Within River Bends Park, the existing Nature Center trail is not well suited for regular bicycle use and would not support the additional traffic expected from a greenway in its current form. Supporting a greenway in this area would require a partial reroute with targeted improvements, or a completely alternate route.

A trail connection does exist between Holland Ponds Park and Gene Shepherd Park, but it is difficult to pass in places and would benefit from targeted improvements. This segment also experiences higher seasonal use due to nearby cider mill activity, which can make travel less comfortable during peak periods.

Completing a River Bends–to–Bloomer greenway would close an important gap in the regional network and create a safe, continuous connection between trail systems in Oakland and Macomb Counties, significantly expanding off-road recreation opportunities.

Who Benefits

• People biking for transportation or recreation
• Walkers, runners, and hikers of all ages
• Families seeking safe, accessible ways to enjoy local parks
• Nature lovers who prefer quiet, off-road routes
• The broader community through healthier, more connected public spaces

Appreciation and Partnership
We would like to thank Shelby Township Parks and Recreation for their long-standing support and partnership. Their collaboration with CRAMBA has made it possible to build and maintain trails, host community events, and create meaningful outdoor experiences for residents.

Shelby Township Parks and Recreation has consistently supported CRAMBA volunteers and trail users through maintenance, coordination, and a shared commitment to stewardship of these parks. This petition is offered with appreciation for the work already completed and optimism for continued collaboration.

Our Request
We respectfully ask local officials and park partners to:

1. Prioritize a safe pedestrian and bicycle crossing on Ryan Road at 22 Mile, with a connected sidewalk or pathway to Holland Ponds Park
2. Support development of a natural-surface trail through River Bends Park as part of the greenway
3. Support trail improvements between Holland Ponds Park and Gene Shepherd Park to improve comfort and access
4. Recognize a River Bends–to–Bloomer greenway as a high-value, low-impact regional connection

This project would improve safety, recreation, and quality of life while preserving the natural character of the parks along the Clinton River.

Add Your Name
By signing below, you show your support for a safer, more connected greenway that reflects how our community already enjoys and uses these parks.