Lots of improvements underway at Belle Isle throughout summer

Detroit's island beauty, Belle Isle, is busy this summer -- both in terms of number of visitors and improvement work.

The City of Detroit Department of Recreation is working with the Friends of Belle Isle Aquarium to raise funds toward repairing the roof of the historic structure. Estimates put the cost at $125,000. They have applied for a $40,000 grant from the state while the department continues to seek additional monies.

FOBIA is holding a fund-raiser on July 25 at the aquarium for its continued maintenance and upkeep. More info at their site.

The reconstruction of the historic Central Avenue Bridge, which was originally built in 1893, was recently completed. It was rebuilt to current state weight standards, but much of the original fascia and railing supports were preserved. The work was funded by the Department of Public Works Street Maintenance Fund.

The Friends of Belle Isle and the recreation department are partnering on the construction of wooden signs that will list park rules and provide wayfinding information will be installed all around the island. Recreation department deputy director Alicia Minter says the design is "obvious but not intrusive." The signs will be hand-crafted over the coming six months so they will be ready for spring and summer of 2010.

Speaking of signs, the Belle Isle Botanical Society is installing signs at the Belle Isle Conservatory over the next few weeks. Directional and plant information will be included, intended to guide and inform visitors.

Last but not least, "Kid's Row," the section of Central Ave. with the playscape and giant slide, has added a petting zoo. Minter hopes Detroiters come check it out the next time they visit the island. "It's a wonderful area to come and picnic with family," she says.

Source: Friends of Belle Isle and Alicia Minter, DRD
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh