July 05, 2023
Michigan Chronicle
Ebony JJ Curry
July 3, 2023
The city of Detroit just unlocked a new future for its historic Corktown neighborhood, marked by a phenomenal $6M revitalization of the venerable Roosevelt Park. Officials across all levels of government have heralded the project, viewing it as a catalyst to spark further investment and development in this culturally rich part of the city.
The 13-acre park, which sits in front of the new Michigan Central campus, previously had been undeveloped open land divided by six lanes of asphalt roadway. Today, thanks to $5 million from the American Rescue Plan Act, it is a beautifully designed, European-style public park that serves as a gateway to surrounding neighborhoods and a growing network of nearby public greenspaces.
When one thinks about the “new” Roosevelt Park, it’s not just about being stricken by its landscaped lawns, the innovative playgrounds, or the state-of-the-art fitness areas. It’s not only about the improved lighting, the safe pathways, or the uplifting public art installations. No. It’s about the feeling of renewal, the sense of community this park brings. It’s about the promise of what we can accomplish when we invest in our neighborhoods, our cities, and, most importantly, our people.
In Detroit—a city that has known its fair share of trials—this rejuvenation signifies a beacon of hope. The park is more than a space; it is a symbol of resilience, of the spirit of Detroit that refuses to be kept down.
Let this investment serve as a testament to Detroit’s enduring spirit and a reminder that when we work together, there is no limit to what we can achieve. This is a victory for Corktown, for Detroit, and for all who believe in the power of community.
