The City of Detroit has secured a pivotal $20.7 million grant from the Biden-Harris Administration as part of the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) Grants. This substantial federal investment is earmarked for the Joe Louis Meets the Iron Belle: Connecting Communities in Detroit Project, which aims to enhance and expand the Joe Louis Greenway (JLG) and Iron Belle Trail (IBT).
The grant will fund the construction of two shared-use paths in Detroit, designed to integrate seamlessly into the broader networks of the Joe Louis Greenway and the Iron Belle Trail. The two trails will intersect at Woodmere and Dequindre Streets, and these areas will feature thoughtful amenities such as signage, benches, trees, and landscaping to enhance the user experience and environmental aesthetics.
A significant portion of the funds, $10.5 million, will be allocated to extending the current Dequindre Cut Greenway north of Mack Avenue to Warren Avenue. This phase of construction will involve removing one traffic lane in both directions on Dequindre Street to build a dedicated shared-use path. This modification underscores a growing trend to prioritize pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure, enhancing safety and accessibility for non-motorized road users.
The remaining funds will be dedicated to constructing a similar shared-use path on Woodmere Street, connecting Vernor Highway and Fort Street. This segment is crucial for linking the Joe Louis Greenway to the Iron Belle Trail. The planning for this section began in 2017, supported by a $30,000 grant from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to the Southwest Detroit Business Association, reflecting a long-term vision for regional connectivity.
“The Joe Louis Greenway is going to connect nearly two dozen Detroit neighborhoods to each other and the city’s beautiful international riverfront, not to mention the cities of Dearborn, Highland Park, and Hamtramck when it is completed,” said Chief Operating Officer Brad Dick. “We are incredibly grateful to the Biden administration for recognizing the value of this transformational project and for making this critical investment into the Joe Louis Greenway and the thousands of people who will use it.”
The Joe Louis Greenway Partnership, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the greenway’s stewardship, collaborates closely with the City of Detroit. Executive Director Leona Medley expressed her excitement about the project, stating, “This expansion underscores our unwavering dedication to transforming green spaces and uplifting community well-being. We are excited to continue working hand-in-hand with the City of Detroit, our partners, and the community to bring this bold vision to life, creating a vibrant and accessible greenway for all to enjoy.”
Local residents have also voiced their enthusiasm. Sharlene Burris, who lives three blocks from the new project site, shared, “Just to see the uplift and beautification of our area is so exciting for me. I already use the Dequindre Cut—I walk it, ride my bike on it so I cannot wait until the entire project is completed so I can go from end to end.”
The Joe Louis Meets the Iron Belle: Connecting Communities in Detroit Project is one of three Michigan projects awarded grants from the RAISE program. This funding reflects a broader national commitment to sustainable infrastructure and community development, with numerous projects across the country receiving support.
The Joe Louis Greenway is a visionary project designed to connect neighborhoods across Detroit and its surrounding cities. Named after the legendary boxer Joe Louis, the greenway symbolizes Detroit’s resilience and determination. The greenway will span 27.5 miles, linking McNichols to the riverfront and connecting Detroit with Dearborn, Highland Park, and Hamtramck. This comprehensive network is being constructed in phases, each new segment building upon the last, fostering a sense of progress and anticipation within the community.
The Iron Belle Trail, a statewide initiative, complements the greenway by offering extensive walking and cycling routes from Belle Isle to Ironwood in the Upper Peninsula. By integrating these trails, Detroit is poised to become a model for urban connectivity and sustainable transportation.
Environmental sustainability is at the core of the greenway’s design. The project includes extensive landscaping efforts to create green spaces that support local biodiversity and offer urban oases for residents. Native plants and trees will be prioritized, enhancing the ecological health of the area, while innovative stormwater management systems will mitigate flooding risks and improve water quality.
Funding from the RAISE program is critical to realizing this ambitious vision. Federal grants enable cities like Detroit to pursue large-scale infrastructure projects that might otherwise be unattainable. This investment not only enhances the quality of life for residents but also attracts new businesses and visitors, contributing to the city’s ongoing revitalization.
The community’s involvement in planning and developing the greenway has been instrumental in shaping a project that meets diverse needs and aspirations. Public meetings and feedback sessions have provided valuable insights, ensuring that the greenway serves as an inclusive space that reflects the voices and visions of those who will use it most. This collaborative approach has fostered a sense of ownership and pride among residents, reinforcing the greenway’s role as a unifying force within the city.
Looking ahead, the completion of the Joe Louis Greenway promises to be a defining moment in Detroit’s resurgence. It represents a bold investment in the city’s future, prioritizing connectivity, sustainability, and community well-being. As each segment is completed, the greenway will stand as a testament to what can be achieved through vision, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to progress.
In the years to come, the Joe Louis Greenway will not only enhance Detroit’s physical landscape but also enrich the lives of its residents. It will offer new opportunities for recreation, transportation, and social interaction, fostering a more vibrant and connected community. This milestone marks a significant step forward in Detroit’s journey toward a more sustainable and inclusive future, one that honors its past while building a better tomorrow for all its residents.
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