Detroit Development News

April 1, 2008

Grand Prix returns to Belle Isle, more improvements in store

The Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix will return this summer, and more improvements to the park are in store as a result.

Last year, a concrete paddock was poured, road and sewer line improvements were undertaken, the Casino and Scott Fountain were renovated, two pedestrian bridges were built and the race area was landscaped. This year, a minimum of $125,000 will be dedicated to the island.

Bud Denker is the event's chairman and is certain to emphasize that racing is not the Grand Prix's only focal point. "Our mission is to put on an event that showcases the city, to contribute to the economic development of the region," he says. "It's most important to us to renovate and and provide capital improvements to Belle Isle.

"Some people think that we put on the race, and the race is nice and we go away," he continues. "The race is what brings people there, but the things we leave behind are our legacy."

Additionally, Firestone, one of the sponsors of the Indy Car Series, has committed to build a new playscape on the island as they did last year.

The Grand Prix committee plans to improve upon last year's successful event by expanding food, beverage and music offerings, better organizing shuttle transportation and adding more racing events.

Sources: Merrill Cain and Bud Denker, Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh

Neighborhoods: East Riverfront