The north 17 acres of David H. Shepherd Park in the City of Oak Park are becoming Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park with improvements funded by the Oakland County Parks Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan. The project is in the design phase now, with construction planned for 2025 and 2026. The anticipated investment of $3.25M includes $2.5M from the American Recovery Plan Act and $750,000 from Oakland County Parks’ capital improvement fund.

Construction Update

Oak Park Woods will remain partially open throughout construction. The main playground and pavilion will be closed for the duration to allow for construction of the following:

• A new restroom building
• Gathering/seating areas
• Exciting new play area
• Updates to the existing pavilion and warming kitchen

What we heard from you

The preliminary design for Oak Park Woods has been developed with guidance from the public engagement conducted in 2023. The most important priorities identified by Oak Park residents were: 

• Preserving nature
• Walking paths
• Maintaining a clean, safe park with working amenities
• Spaces where everyone is welcome to gather, relax and play

What to expect at your park

• Pavilion and warming kitchen updates
• New restroom building
• Gathering and seating areas
• New play area

Schematic Design and Concept Renderings for Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park

The schematic designs and concept renderings below have an overall emphasis on peaceful, natural spaces and nurturing the excitement to explore:

About

Oak Park Woods at Shepherd Park is a 17-acre area located within David H. Shepherd Park in the City of Oak Park. It is jointly operated by OCP and City of Oak Park and is owned by the City of Oak Park. It is being developed into an open space gateway that will feature accessible trails, seating and gathering areas, a nature-themed playground and updated pavilions and restrooms.