Brooksie Way Celebrates Ten Years with $30,000 Grant

Innovation Hills to Name Trail the Brooksie Way

In celebration of the 10th anniversary, the Brooksie Way has elected to fund one exciting mini-grant application. Thanks to their support, $30,000 will be given to Innovation Hills, formerly known as Riverbend Park, to name a section of trail the Brooksie Way (different from the event of the same name).

The Brooksie Way will run immediately adjacent to the pristine, winding Clinton River. This path will highlight the natural beauty of over 113 acres of wetlands and woods.

Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson created The Brooksie Way Minigrant program to use proceeds from The Brooksie Way Half Marathon and 5k to promote healthy, active lifestyles for Oakland County residents.  

“The Brooksie Way has always been one of our community’s biggest events and this investment will allow us to provide additional recreational opportunities for thousands of people in the region,” states Mayor Bryan K. Barnett. “We’re so honored that they have chosen to help us make this park the best place to walk, run, or bike in the region.” 

The McLaren Brooksie Way, now in its tenth year has become one of the most popular regional fall half marathons. The course begins and ends at the Meadow Brook Amphitheatre (formerly known as the Meadow Brook Music Festival) on the campus of Oakland University and highlights some the great beauty of Rochester Hills including the Clinton River and the Paint Creek trail. 

The McLaren Brooksie Way Half Marathon is set for September 24 and begins and ends at the Meadow Brook Music Festival on the OU campus. It includes a 10k and 5k race. All races can be run or walked. Participants can register for the races at www.theBrooksieWay.com. 

Located at 2800 W Hamlin Road, Innovation Hills contains over 100 acres of undeveloped woodlands, wetland, and prairie habitat. Users discover high overlooks providing spectacular views of the Clinton River. As the largest outdoor classroom in the region, Innovations Hills will provide a wide variety of hands-on educational opportunities that promote experiential learning and a long term appreciation for nature. To learn more, visit www.rochesterhills.org/innovationhills.