MADISON HEIGHTS, Mich. – It’s a Metro Detroit community just a skip up I-75 from Detroit.
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Despite having a footprint of roughly seven square miles, there’s a lot packed into this Oakland County community. Sitting at the I-75 and I-696 exchange, residents can get to almost any locality in Metro Detroit with ease.
Related: Madison Heights launches downtown revitalization project
Initially a part of Royal Oak Township, Madison Heights became an independent city in 1955. At the time, its 7.2 square miles was one of the largest suburban communities in Metro Detroit.
Robert Wyland, the artist and conservationist known best for painting the iconic Whale Tower mural in Detroit that’s currently covered by an advertisement for auto insurance, was born and raised in Madison Heights.
Watch: Madison Heights Councilman Quinn Wright on top restaurants
Madison Heights has two school districts: Madison District Public Schools -- which is the smallest in Oakland County by enrollment -- and Lamphere Public Schools, which also serves parts of Troy.
People in the community love their parks -- and it shows! The city is developing a Parks Master Plan and is currently conducting a community survey to gather residents’ input on future improvements. This initiative precedes a planned $7.2 million investment in Red Oaks Park.
Madison Heights is also home to Planet Rock -- an indoor rock-climbing facility offering activities for all skill levels, from beginners to professionals. The space provides a variety of climbing options, including solo climbing, classes, and rope-free climbing, making it a fun destination for the entire family.
---> Upcoming events in Madison Heights: Food truck rallies, bike rodeos and more
It’s also become a hot spot for folks across Metro Detroit looking for Asian-inspired cuisine.
Local 4 News is getting out of the studio and hitting the road to be In Your Neighborhood! We’re showcasing what makes our communities great!
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---> In Your Neighborhood: Which Metro Detroit community should we visit next?