Boardwalks at Innovation Hills Receive a New Sponsored Name

Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital (Crittenton Hospital) and the Ascension Providence Rochester Foundation have announced a major partnership with Innovation Hills Park in Rochester Hills. The boardwalks and selected trails in the park will become the “Ascension Providence Rochester Boardwalks at Innovation Hills.”

Purchased by the city in 1991 using recreational bonds, Innovation Hills is a 100+ acre park and green space consisting of prairie, dense hardwood forests, and pristine wetlands, with the Clinton River winding through the property. It is the first new park development in Rochester Hills in over 25 years.

“Our sponsorship of the boardwalk system at Innovation Hills aligns perfectly with our priorities of promoting healthy lifestyles, physical fitness and mental wellness,” said Chris Palazzolo, president of Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital. “This legacy investment in the park also provides a tangible and meaningful way to support our community in a spectacular outdoor environment.” 

In addition to its unique features and universal accessibility, the park sits within 1,500 feet of the Clinton River Trail – connected through the city’s pathway system – with a nearby link to the Paint Creek Trail and Michigan’s Iron Belle Trail.

The city’s most recent resident survey revealed that two of the most important reasons people decide to live in Rochester Hills are reputation of community and environmental characteristics. Ascension Providence Rochester’s $500,000 investment will help the city sustain this benefit.

“Innovation Hills is an incredible community asset, which offers residents an outlet to accomplish their health and fitness goals,” said Angela DelPup, director of Community Outreach and Senior Services at Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital. “We’re thrilled to provide programs including walking clubs and health seminars that not only fit with our hospital priorities, but will benefit the community greatly,” said DelPup. 

“We are elated about this announcement and Ascension Providence Rochester’s commitment to Innovation Hills,” said Rochester Hills Mayor Bryan K. Barnett. “Their generous investment will dramatically enhance the park’s boardwalk and trail network, truly providing pathways to mental and physical well being.”

The city’s vision is to make the park a one-of-a-kind, all-accessible regional attraction for residents and guests to enjoy for generations to come. Ascension Providence Rochester will be the exclusive health system sponsor of the park. Funds provided will be used for the development, operation and maintenance of the park.