Urban Greenways: A Revitalizing Trend with Room for Improvement “`
In Detroit, on a chilly November afternoon, John Kish watches his four-year-old grandson enjoy a playground slide. The relatively empty playground is part of the Joe Louis Greenway.
Kish notes the challenging climb, but appreciates the activity it provides for his grandson.
This playground, located at the West Warren Avenue stop, is part of the Joe Louis Greenway, a planned network of paths, playgrounds, and activity centers connecting 23 Detroit neighborhoods. Upon completion, the 27.5-mile greenway will also extend through nearby cities and end at the Detroit riverfront.
Under development since 2021, this greenway exemplifies a growing urban trend. Many cities, from Atlanta and Boston to Dallas and Long Island, are converting previously unused land into recreational spaces.
New York City’s High Line, built on a former freight rail line, serves as a prominent example. Opened in phases between 2009 and 2019, it’s a popular attraction drawing significant numbers of both residents and visitors.
The High Line’s success includes gardens, economic growth along its 1.45-mile route, and new residential development.
While Detroit’s greenway is still developing, city officials anticipate similar positive outcomes.
Crystal Perkins, Director of City of Detroit General Services, highlights anticipated health benefits, improved connectivity, and enhanced city mobility.
The Joe Louis Greenway’s construction, projected to cost approximately $240 million over the next five to ten years, involves significant site preparation, including demolition and cleanup.
An estimated 40,000 residents will live within a short walk. Recent federal funding will connect the greenway to the Iron Belle Trail, but further public and private partnerships are crucial for its success.
New Orleans’ Lafitte Greenway, celebrating its tenth anniversary, offers another success story. Constructed for $7.8 million along an abandoned rail line, this 2.6-mile project connects the French Quarter to City Park, traversing various neighborhoods.
With daily usage averaging around 1,000 people and significantly more during festivals, the greenway is a valuable community asset. It provides access to jobs for local residents, facilitating mobility on foot, bicycles, skateboards, or scooters.
Attracting an estimated 500,000 annual visitors, it hosts regular fitness classes, musical performances, and community events.
For Jeff Hinson and Breanna Kostyk, owners of Flour Moon Bagels, the greenway’s proximity was a key factor in choosing their location. The shop benefits from high foot and bicycle traffic.
Hinson views the greenway as an extension of their business, attracting customers and promoting exploration beyond typical tourist areas.
However, improvements are needed, according to Anne Lusk, a Boston University lecturer who has studied greenways extensively. Many lack sufficient amenities such as restrooms, benches, and playgrounds.
Lusk also advocates for protected bike lanes connecting to greenways, creating integrated transportation systems and promoting bicycle use for commuting and daily errands.
Addressing climate change impacts is another key consideration, particularly the need for increased tree planting within greenway corridors.
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