Green Infrastructure Brings Pontiac Neighborhood Together

Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner Jim Nash joined City of Pontiac leaders and neighborhood residents to celebrate the completion of the Norton Street Innovation Stormwater Improvement Project in the City of Pontiac. The new green infrastructure space spans five acres along Norton Street from North Johnson Street to Sanderson Avenue and is designed to manage up to 900,000 gallons of stormwater on the land surrounding the Augusta Drain. It features native plants, trees, and a landscaped creek area that helps guide stormwater while enhancing the community.

The event featured remarks from Commissioner Nash, Pontiac City Councilwoman Melanie Rutherford (District 1), Pontiac City Council President Mike McGuinness (District 7), and WRC Community Engagement Representative Alyssa Taube. The speakers emphasized that the project not only delivers environmental benefits but also strengthens the neighborhood by providing a place where the community can come together.

"This project is a perfect example of how we can invest in green infrastructure to protect our water resources while creating a space that brings folks together," said Commissioner Nash. "We're especially proud that this $1.3 million project was made possible by grant funding, allowing us to deliver long-term environmental and community improvements at no cost to Pontiac residents. It's a great example of how sustainability can benefit everyone."

Attendees enjoyed a variety of family-friendly activities throughout the evening, including a self-guided green infrastructure tour that showed how the new space helps manage stormwater and prevent neighborhood flooding. The Dirt Doctors offered a hands-on demonstration illustrating the connection between plants, soil, and water quality.

"I believe this project can be a gathering space for community," said Councilwoman Rutherford. "Every tree, every flower, sets the tone for growth. I am so proud of WRC and this amazing project."

Residents expressed excitement and pride about the completed project noting how native plants have already attracted different birds and other pollinators. Many local residents participated in planning events, helping share what types of native plants they envisioned in the space. This project not only improves the neighborhood's stormwater management, but also reflects the community's input, creating a functional, lasting green space that residents will enjoy for years to come.

"The City of Pontiac is grateful for the proactive partnership with Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner Jim Nash and their entire team," said Pontiac City Council President Mike McGuinness. "This is one innovative example of the many ways their hard work has benefited Pontiac residents and I look forward to the future collaborative ways we can make more improvements, too."

For more information about the Norton Street Innovation Stormwater Improvement Project including, its benefits, construction process, and history, visit bit.ly/NortonStreetInnovation.

Click to view the press release.