Courtesy of The Hope and Imagination Foundation
A once-vacant lot in Detroit’s North End is on the brink of a creative transformation into a vibrant community space that blends accessibility, global culture, and neighborhood pride. The project, dubbed Abby’s Art Park, is the latest initiative from the Hope and Imagination Foundation, and it’s counting on community support to become a reality.
Through a new crowdfunding campaign launched in partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), organizers aim to raise $75,000 by August 31. If successful, the project will receive a matching grant from MEDC’s Public Spaces Community Places (PSCP) program, plus an additional $25,000 made possible through the program’s Universal Design and Accessibility Funding Extension.
MEDC Regional Prosperity Managing Director Paula Holtz highlighted that the cultural connections in public space are what strengthen the very fabric of Detroit neighborhoods.
“We are pleased to support and provide resources for Abby’s Art Park through our Public Spaces Community Places program,” Holtz said.
Nestled within the tightly knit residential streets of Detroit’s North End, Abby’s Art Park is being designed as a fully inclusive “third space,” a place outside of home and work where people can connect, create, and build community. Far more than a typical park, it aims to serve as a neighborhood hub where accessibility, culture, and sustainability come together.
Courtesy of The Hope and Imagination Foundation
Dan Gilmartin, Executive Director and CEO of the Michigan Municipal League, emphasized that creating vibrant and thriving third spaces, especially those that revitalize previously underused lots within a municipality is crucial for looking ahead to Michigan’s future.
“This library and public art space will have a positive impact on the North End neighborhood, as well as all the residents and visitors who take advantage of it,” Gilmartin said.
“This is what placemaking is all about.”
At the heart of the space will be a global cultural lending library housed in a customized shipping container, offering neighbors access to rare and diverse literature from around the world. The park will also feature a striking mural created specifically for the visually impaired, ensuring that art can be experienced in multiple ways and by all members of the community.
“Faniq” by painter and muralist Taimaa Salama, courtesy of The Hope and Imagination Foundation
In keeping with the park’s commitment to universal design, a range of accessible and inclusive features will define the layout and experience of the space. A wooden patio built for universal access will serve as a central gathering point, while solar panels and a rainwater collection system will promote sustainable operations.
Detroit-based designer Surukotoga (Vivian Sanders) will create bespoke furniture that accommodates diverse body types and mobility needs through flexible heights, wide clearances, and zero-step entries.
Custom-designed outdoor furniture, including seating and picnic tables, will accommodate individuals with mobility devices and varying physical needs. Tactile art installations and carefully selected lighting will help make the space inviting and navigable for those with sensory sensitivities. Altogether, Abby’s Art Park is being built with the vision of creating a welcoming, culturally rich space that’s open to everyone regardless of age, background, or ability.
Programming for the space will be as inclusive and dynamic as its design. Organizers envision weekly woodworking workshops, open mic nights, creative writing classes, and neighborhood block parties.
Since its launch in 2014, the PSCP initiative has helped fund over 400 community-led projects across Michigan. It uses a unique model where local residents donate through the crowdfunding platform Patronicity, unlocking matching support from MEDC when goals are met. According to the MEDC, the program has funneled more than $14 million in matching grants to date, with a 97% project success rate.
For Laura Kraftowitz, Founding Co-Director of The Hope and Imagination Foundation, the campaign represents more than a funding milestone.
“The MEDC’s Public Spaces Community Places matching grant is transformational for the Hope and Imagination Foundation as we prepare to create Abby’s Art Park,” Kraftowitz said.
“This partnership with MEDC embodies our belief that communities flourish when we build bridges across differences.”
To learn more about the project or to contribute, visit patronicity.com/hopeandimagination.
