Recognition of visionary leader on environmental, conservation issues

Tri-Centennial State Park and Harbor in downtown Detroit today became the William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor, as the park was renamed in a ceremony honoring Michigan's longest serving governor. Governor Milliken and his wife Helen, and their son, Bill Jr., were on hand for a ceremony that included tributes from Governor Jennifer M. Granholm and representatives of the Department of Natural Resources.

"This park symbolizes Governor Milliken's public service to our state, reflecting both his advocacy for the environment and his commitment to our cities," said Governor Granholm. "It is a fitting tribute to a visionary leader who continues to inspire conservationists, environmentalists and all who have an interest in protecting what makes our state so special - our abundant natural resources."

"It has long been the goal of the department to name a DNR facility after former Governor Milliken," said DNR Director Rebecca Humphries. "This beautiful spot, on the Detroit River, embodies what Bill Milliken worked for as Governor and what he still stands for today - environmental protection, a strong conservation ethic and vibrant urban centers."

At the ceremony, the DNR also dedicated the state park's nearly complete second phase that includes a wetlands complex and the Peter Stroh Memorial. The Peter Stroh family generously donated $333,330 to match a $1 million grant to the park to help construct the second phase. The wetlands complex will serve to demonstrate the importance of wetlands to water quality in Michigan.

The William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor, seen as a portal for the state park system and tourism opportunities in Michigan, is located in the heart of downtown Detroit along the riverfront. It is 31 acres in size, located on a reclaimed brownfield that had been impacted by many decades of industrial use. The public harbor site has 52 slips for transient and seasonal boaters. The park contains two picnic pavilions, an historic dry dock area, a wetlands complex, fishing on the Detroit River, and bicycle and pedestrian trails that connect to the Detroit RiverWalk. The park will soon include a trailhead for the Dequindre Cut Trail Greenway to connect the riverfront to Eastern Market.

Milliken, 87, is the longest-serving Governor in Michigan history. A Traverse City native, he served on the Michigan State Waterways Commission and in the State Senate before being elected Lieutenant Governor in 1964. He served that role until 1966 when then Governor George Romney left to assume a post in the administration of President Richard Nixon. Milliken then assumed the office of Governor, and was subsequently elected to serve full terms in 1970, 1974 and 1978. In 1982, he led the formation of the Council of Great Lakes Governors, which works to ensure the Great Lakes region is both economically sound and environmentally conscious. Milliken was known as an astute dealmaker, who could form political coalitions ranging from Detroit Mayor Coleman Young to rural conservative Republicans. He compiled a record of accomplishments in education reform, environmental protection, civil rights and urban policy.