Nuclear Michigan: Decommissioned Missile Site in Shelby Township

You know those roadside parks you see dotted across the State of Michigan? Welcome to River Bends Park in Shelby Township, where nothing says "charming park getaway" like the lingering remnants of a Cold War missile base. This little park is where nature and atomic history awkwardly hold hands.

RELATED:

Among the scenic vistas near the Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center, you'll find what's left of the Utica D-06 Nike Missile Site. This base was built to defend Detroit from Soviet bombers. Now? It's mostly concrete.

Defending Detroit

Google Earth / Canva

In 1954, the US Army leased a portion of Spring Hill Farm to create one of 15 missile sites surrounding Detroit. These sites would be used if the Soviet Union decided to take out the nation's automotive and manufacturing hub. According to Shelby Township, construction of the Utica D-06 site began in 1955, and by October 1957, it was stocked with 20 Nike Ajax missiles.

These missiles could take out one bomber at a time only if it flew within range of the base. By 1962, the site upgraded to Hercules missiles, which could take out multiple bombers with one nuclear warhead.

What's Left Today?

Google Earth

The base closed in 1974, having been deemed unnecessary in the age of ballistic missiles that can travel across continents. The skeletal remains can be found throughout River Bends Park. The nature center now covers what was the silo area. The Ajax fuel mixing building's foundation can still be seen near the park's replica Pioneer Cabin.

Google Earth / Canva

The power building in the IFC (Integrated Fire Control) is still in use today. The Shelby Township Parks, Recreation, and Maintenance Department uses the Cold War-era facility for storage. Today, the former Utica D-06 Nike Missle Site is listed in the Michigan State Register of Historic Places. Next time you're in Shelby Township with some time to kill, take a walk through history.

15 US Cities Most Likely to Be Targeted in Nuclear Attack

247 Wall Street did some digging to determine which cities are the most at risk in the event of a nuclear war. Here's a look at The 15 US Cities Most Likely To Be Targeted in a Nuclear Attack.

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

Michigan Department of Corrections Most Wanted Fugitives

The Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC) has a long, storied history, which includes hundreds of unsuccessful prison breaks. That said, some have been successful enough that nearly 50 years later, some Michigan fugitives are still running from justice. Here's a look at the MDOC's Most Wanted Fugitives and Absconders

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

Categories: Articles