DETROIT – A major greenway taking shape across Metro Detroit is bringing new interests and opportunities into neighborhoods that some feel were often overlooked.
Plans for the Joe Louis Greenway are in full swing. The system connects Detroit’s Riverfront to 23 neighborhoods across Detroit, Highland Park, Dearborn, and Hamtramck.
Off W. Warren Avenue, where the cities of Detroit and Dearborn meet, you’ll find the Joe Louis Greenway Warren Gateway Trail Head.
“Families have been out here every day, using this space and enjoying this park,” said Leona Medley, Executive Director of the Joe Louis Greenway Partnership.
The new park and walking trail are part of that greenway system of parks and trails connecting neighborhoods.
“Community activists have been trying to get this community some attention,” said longtime Detroit resident RuShann Long. “We fought for this.”
Long has lived in the community near the new Joe Louis Warren Gateway Trail Head for more than 60 years.
She said she initially had no idea what a greenway was. However, after being invited to participate in a citizen’s advisory committee and conducting some research, Long said she became excited about how a greenway winding through and transforming neglected areas of the community could bring some positive change.
“It’s bringing people together that didn’t really have a place to go,” Long said.
The Joe Louis Greenway is about opportunity. Neighbors said it’s inviting residents along its path to get out of their homes, become active, and explore.
“Kids and families get to literally walk from their house to this wonderful park,” Medley said. “They get to experience this beautiful playscape behind us. They get this amazing community center.”
Medley is also a native Detroiter. She and her team are intentional about the variety of programming offered in areas along the greenway.
“We have this walking trail that’s going to span their neighborhood,” Medley said. “You’ll be able to walk out of your house and get to health, fitness, and recreation. What we’re talking about is improving the quality of life for Detroiters and their neighborhood.”
Engaging programs are offered along the Joe Louis Greenway five days a week.
Events include trap yoga and outdoor exercise classes led by Coach Khari Dickey of Connected Fitness. She said everyone from toddlers to seniors is gathering along the greenway.
“It is very inspiring,” Dickey said. “I’ve seen people of all ages using the equipment. Working together. Laughing together. It’s very important that when you’re creating that community and that ecosystem that everyone feels welcome.”
As the Joe Louis Greenway continues taking shape in their backyards, some neighbors said it will help inspire even more positive developments across their communities.
“It’s bringing a hope,” Long said. “A hope of things to come.”
Click here for more information about the Joe Louis Greenway, events, and programming.