Naming Rights Policy
The Naming Rights Policy is an initiative being developed by the Parks Foundation to generate funding for larger-scale parks projects. 2 separate matters touch this plan or program; each has its own status.
Thaiss Park
Thaiss Park is a City of Fairfax park undergoing a full redevelopment funded at $7,725,650 via a construction contract awarded to Bright Masonry, Inc. by unanimous City Council vote on October 8, 2024. Construction began in December 2024 with full park closure, utility relocation, and fencing installation.
- Old Business – Naming Rights Policy
A naming rights policy is being developed for items such as pavilions and the Thaiss Park scoreboard; the Parks Foundation infrastructure is now in place to support it.
WSHCC
The West Side Health and Community Center (WSHCC) is a City of Ann Arbor parks capital project that has been tracked by the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board (PRAB). Through mid-2025, the project was in a planning and financial analysis phase, with staff preparing low, medium, and high cost-recovery budgetary scenarios; concerns centered on staffing costs and the overall cost of the building.
- May 14, 2026Parks and Recreation Advisory Board · item 7New Business
A naming rights policy is being developed by the Parks Foundation to help fund larger-scale projects; discussed under new business in connection with the Parks Foundation's 501(c)3 status update from item 3.
In full
The concept was first discussed at the May 14, 2026 joint PRAB and School Board meeting in connection with the Parks Foundation's 501(c)3 status update. By the June 11, 2026 PRAB and Senior Center Advisory Council meeting, development of the policy was ongoing, with specific candidate items identified — including pavilions and the Thaiss Park scoreboard. The Parks Foundation's supporting infrastructure is now substantially in place: its website is live, directors have email accounts, and donation management software has been purchased.
Approximately $470,000 from the Legacy account is scheduled to transfer to the Foundation on July 1, 2026, providing a financial foundation alongside which the naming rights policy is expected to operate.