Remember when the old cement silos and abandoned Uniroyal Tire Plant were eyesore symbols of Detroit’s riverfront? A lot of positive changes have taken place over the last 30 years! Today’s riverfront adds beauty and quality of life to downtown Detroit.
The selection of Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates as the designer of the 22-acre West Riverfront Park is another important chapter in Detroit’s comeback story. It will also be big step towards the ultimate goal; fully developing 5 ½ miles of the riverfront.
From bridge to bridge, just envision what this international riverfront will look like. It will be a priceless asset and attraction. Outdoor recreation, entertainment venues, restaurants, retail shopping and housing are rapidly transforming the land along the Detroit River.
The Riverfront Conservancy along with its public/private partnerships have already turned the East Riverfront into a reality. Popular parks, marinas, jogging and bike paths have greatly enhanced the environment. And now, artistic concepts for the West Riverfront promise to give world-class parks in Chicago, Boston and New York a run for their money. In a few years, this site will look unbelievably different and help define the future of this region.
During the transformational process, there will be challenges and hurdles to overcome. But if riverfront leaders keep the project on track, within budget and transparent to the public, the finished park will be a shining jewel on the Detroit River!
I’m Mike Murri, Vice President & General Manager
Broadcast: April 19 - 22, 2018
