So what
is going on at the Dequindre Cut? The
Detroit Riverfront Conservancy hosted a community forum on October 28 to discuss the details of the project that has had several pushed back opening dates due to construction complications.
The primary focus in the past year has been the stretch of the Cut between Woodbridge Street and Gratiot that is mostly complete, although nominally blocked off with bollards and construction fencing. Amenities like benches and trash cans need to be installed and lighting and security phones and cameras need to be linked into DRFC operations, located at Rivard Plaza.
The latest target is mid-November with a grand opening celebration in May.
After construction is complete, the Cut's reins will be officially handed over to the Riverfront Conservancy, which is tasked with
security and maintenance as well as programming. Planning will occur
over the winter to determine how to attract regular groups of walkers
and cyclists as well as how to implement community gardens.
Another key component of the project is improving the pedestrian and bicycle connection between the Cut's Gratiot entrance and Eastern Market proper. Design is underway for improvements to Gratiot between Vernor and Jay that will include sidewalk, curb and lighting enhancement. Expect construction in summer of 2009.
Planning also is underway for the northern section of the Cut between Gratiot and Mack in cooperation with the property's private owner, the
Eastern Market Corpo, the city and
Detroit Edison Public School Academy. There will be access opportunities at Division and Wilkins.
The Dequindre Trail Extension is planned to draw the Cut south from Woodbridge to Atwater where it will tie in with Tricentennial State Park. The meandering pathway will be constructed through the summer of 2009.
Finally, starting next spring, the overall reconstruction of streets in the East Riverfront district, including Atwater between Rivard and Orleans, will be undertaken in order to complement the East Riverfront and the Dequindre Cut.
Source: Detroit Riverfront Conservancy community forum
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
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