Innovation Hills in Rochester Hills, Michigan, is a modern, eco-conscious public park that blends stunning natural beauty with thoughtful amenities like ADA-accessible trails, interactive play areas, and a new paid parking system introduced in 2024. This guide explores essential visitor info, from the park’s sustainable initiatives and community engagement to logistical details like hours, access, and the latest park updates.
In early 2024, the City of Rochester Hills introduced a new paid parking system at Innovation Hills Park, marking a significant shift in how visitors access one of the city's most popular outdoor destinations. The move to a pay-to-park model was designed to support the ongoing maintenance and improvements of the park, ensuring a high-quality experience for all guests while managing increased visitor traffic.
The system was implemented in phases to allow for public feedback and adjustment. By mid-2024, the infrastructure—including signage, mobile payment options, and enforcement measures—was fully operational. This change aligns Innovation Hills with a growing trend among urban parks to adopt sustainable revenue models that reduce reliance on city budgets.
The new parking system at Innovation Hills is simple and user-friendly. Visitors can pay for parking via smartphone using an app-based platform or at on-site kiosks located in the main parking lot. Hourly and daily rates are available, with discounts or free parking periods offered to Rochester Hills residents during specific times.
Key features of the parking system include:
The city began planning the parking upgrade in late 2023, with public forums and city council meetings gathering input from residents. Installation of the system infrastructure started in early 2024, and full enforcement began by summer of the same year. Staff at Innovation Hills were trained to assist visitors during the transition period, and clear signage was installed to inform parkgoers of the new policies.
As Innovation Hills continues to rise in popularity—thanks to its scenic boardwalks, natural playscape, and year-round events—the park has experienced growing pressure on its facilities and resources. The pay-to-park system was introduced to:
According to city officials, the system is part of a broader sustainability initiative, balancing public access with fiscal responsibility. The City of Rochester Hills emphasized that funds from parking fees will be used exclusively for park-related projects, maintaining transparency and community trust.
Initial public response to the paid parking system was mixed, with some residents expressing concern over accessibility and affordability. In response, the city introduced measures such as:
Ongoing feedback channels remain open, and city officials have expressed willingness to make further adjustments based on public input.
Innovation Hills Park is located in Rochester Hills, Michigan, nestled along the Clinton River and easily accessible from downtown Rochester and surrounding areas. The park’s main entrance is situated at 2800 W Hamlin Road, conveniently positioned between Adams and Livernois Roads. Ample signage and GPS directions make finding the park straightforward for both locals and out-of-town visitors.
As of 2024, Innovation Hills has implemented a pay-to-park system. This change was introduced to support ongoing park maintenance and future improvements. The paid parking system is active during park hours, and payments can be made via kiosks located near the main parking areas or through designated mobile apps.
Accessible parking spaces are available near the primary park entrance, and the park’s pathways and restrooms are ADA-compliant, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the facilities comfortably.
To stay informed about parking updates or changes, visitors are encouraged to sign up for RHConnect, the City of Rochester Hills' official communication platform. RHConnect provides real-time updates via email and text message, including alerts about park access, closures, and events.
Innovation Hills is open daily from dawn until dusk. During peak seasons, typically spring through fall, the park experiences higher foot traffic, especially on weekends. Early mornings and weekday afternoons are ideal for visitors seeking a quieter experience.
Innovation Hills offers a unique experience year-round, but the park is especially popular in the spring and fall due to its scenic boardwalks, vibrant foliage, and peaceful river trails. Summer months are also ideal for families, with the playground and sensory garden attracting younger visitors.
Winter access is permitted, though some amenities may be limited due to snow or icy conditions. The paved and boardwalk paths are generally maintained, but visitors are advised to check RHConnect or the city’s website for seasonal advisories before visiting in colder months.
Effective communication plays a central role in ensuring visitors and residents are well-informed about developments at Innovation Hills Park. The City of Rochester Hills has prioritized transparency and community engagement through a variety of communication tools, including the RHConnect platform.
RHConnect is the City of Rochester Hills' official communication system designed to keep the community updated on key municipal changes, events, and park-related news. The platform allows users to sign up for real-time notifications via email and text message, tailoring the information they receive based on personal preferences.
Subscribers to RHConnect can expect timely updates on:
This system is particularly useful for regular park-goers who want immediate updates without having to monitor the city website or social media channels constantly.
In addition to RHConnect, the City of Rochester Hills utilizes multiple channels to disseminate information:
With Innovation Hills Park evolving to meet the needs of its growing number of visitors, staying informed ensures a smoother, more enjoyable experience. Whether it’s learning about the new paid parking system or finding out about seasonal events, the city’s communication strategy helps foster a well-connected and proactive community.
Visitors are encouraged to sign up for RHConnect to receive updates tailored to their interests and to follow the city and park’s social media for the latest news. These tools not only enhance the visitor experience but also promote civic engagement and transparency.
To ensure a safe, enjoyable, and respectful experience for everyone at Innovation Hills Park, visitors are encouraged to follow a set of guidelines and rules that align with the park’s mission of sustainability, accessibility, and community engagement.
Innovation Hills Park, operated by the City of Rochester Hills, maintains a family-friendly environment with rules designed to preserve the natural beauty and safety of the park. Key regulations include:
As of 2024, Innovation Hills has implemented a paid parking system to help sustain park maintenance and improvements. Details include:
Innovation Hills is committed to being accessible to people of all abilities. Key features include:
For visitor safety, the park is monitored by local authorities and maintenance staff. In case of emergency:
For gatherings such as birthday parties, educational tours, or fitness classes:
Innovation Hills is a model of environmental innovation. Visitors are encouraged to:
To protect visitor privacy and wildlife:
By following these guidelines, visitors help ensure that Innovation Hills remains a welcoming and sustainable destination for all.
Innovation Hills Park offers more than just a walk in the woods—it’s a cutting-edge, environmentally friendly destination built for the future of recreation. From its newly implemented parking system to its thoughtfully designed trails and inclusive amenities, the park sets a new standard in community outdoor spaces. Check the RHConnect platform for updates, and plan your visit to experience one of Michigan’s most innovative parks in action.
