Mayor Barnett Touts City’s Preparation for the Future

Mayor Highlights Major Investments in Quality of Life at Community Outlook Breakfast

Barnett and three others sit facing a crowd at Oakland University

Speaking to over 300 community leaders, Mayor Bryan K. Barnett shared some of the city’s national accomplishments as Rochester Hills celebrated another incredible year of success – Photo by Michael Dwyer

Celebrating another year of success in Rochester Hills, Mayor Bryan K. Barnett shared some of the city’s national accomplishments during a 30-minute press conference, followed by joining a panel discussion to over 300 community leaders, business owners and local representatives.

This annual Community Outlook Breakfast, hosted by the Rochester Regional Chamber of Commerce, was once again the platform Mayor Barnett used to tout the city’s recent successes and commitment to the future. Mayor Barnett was part of a four-person line-up, which included Mayor Rob Ray (Rochester), Supervisor Mike Bailey (Oakland Township), and Superintendent Robert Shaner. The panel was moderated by Judge Julie Nicholson.

Barnett at a podium speaking

Mayor Barnett Touts City’s Preparation for the Future – Photo by Michael Dwyer

Mayor Barnett highlighted the fact that the city was recognized as one of the top ten places in the country to open a small business, welcomed hundreds of new high tech jobs to the community, and continues to be ranked one of the safest places to live in the state.

“We must be intentional about what we want Rochester Hills to look like in the next five to 10 years,” stated Mayor Barnett. “The long term investments we are making today will set the course to enhance the outstanding quality of life that residents have come to expect well into our future.”

Mayor Barnett unveiled new designs and concepts for the Auburn Road Corridor project. This plan is focused on the six-block segment between Culbertson Avenue and Dequindre Road. The City has committed to investing over $12 million to create a walkable, people-oriented corridor that will improve safety while creating a downtown district atmosphere. Visitors will soon see more parking options, outdoor seating, lighting, and includes a pocket park featuring the city’s first splash pad.

On the other side of the city, the community celebrated the official groundbreaking of our newest park, Innovation Hills. This summer, construction started on some of the park’s largest water features and boardwalks. The park continues to build support from all over the region and now has secured over $1.7 million in donations, grants, and in-kind support.

In addition to investing in the physical infrastructure of the city, Rochester Hills has been active in investing in the next generation of workers for the public sector. Thanks to a grant from Wells Fargo, the city has created the “Pathway to Public Service” program. This innovative initiative includes an internship program and a fellowship program for interested college students.

“The city is truly thriving and we have engaged residents and a generous business community to thank,” states Mayor Barnett. “We are doing all the right things to keep Rochester Hills positioned as the preeminent place to live, work, and raise your family.”

About Michael Dwyer

Michael Dwyer is a freelance content provider. Michael writes about happenings in the Rochester area, travels across Michigan and destinations around the world. Contact him at michael@rochestermedia.com.

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