Midtown Loop pedestrian walkway to link cultural amenities, public art

University Cultural Center Association (UCCA) has completed fundraising and design for Phase 1 of the Midtown Loop, a culturally-oriented pedestrian walkway in the district. The cost of the first phase, which will travel Cass from Canfield to Kirby and Kirby from Cass to John R, is $3 million–$5 million has been raised. Susan Mosey, president of UCCA, says the surplus will go towards funding Phase 2, which will complete the loop by traversing John R and Canfield.

The Loop will consist of a 12-foot wide path that is distinguished with patterned, stained concrete and separated from street traffic with decorative bollards. The area will be landscaped and contemporary lighting will be installed adjacent. Street furniture and bike lockers are also planned along the route.

UCCA is creating a public art plan that will be incorporated into Phase 2. Mosey estimates the public art component will add an additional $1 million to the total project cost but says it is integral to the vision of the organization. “It will be a walkable experience with an emphasis on art-related experiences.”

Pre-development work, including the settling of easement agreements with adjacent landowners, is currently underway, with Mosey hoping to see Phase 1 construction begin in July 2007. The City of Detroit Department of Public Works will bid out and oversee the construction of the pathway and associated infrastructure.

The project has been funded by Michigan Department of Transportation, a federal earmark, the Greenways Initiative of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, Metropolitan Title Co. and Woodward Avenue Action Association.

UCCA will continue to work the Greenways Initiative to create pedestrian and bicycle linkages to the Dequindre Cut.

Source: Susan Mosey, UCCA
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh