Some exciting construction work has begun on the Phase II expansion of the Tri-Centennial State Park on the Detroit Riverwalk.  This project will extend the Riverwalk from Rivard Plaza (where the carousel is) east towards the large grassy berm and then to Atwater.

Below are some photos taken on September 25th by the DNR.

Phase I of Detroit’s Dequindre Cut continues to make progress. It is expected that paving will begin within the next week or two. One estimate says it will be completed by July.

Phase I runs from Woodbridge, near the river, north to Gratiot. This basically connects the riverfront, Tri-Centennial Park, Lafayette Park, Elmwood, and Eastern Market.

Phase II continues north of Gratiot to Mack. That portion of the rail corridor is still privately owned, though discussions are underway for it’s sale to the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy.

The hope is that eventually future phases will continue further north still and connect with Hamtramck, Highland Park, and more.

An invitation from the DNR:

The Department of Natural Resources
Parks and Recreation Division cordially invites you to participate in a Public Workshop on Wednesday, January 14, 2009.

We Need Your Help Planning the Recreation Design and Programming for Tri-Centennial State Park and Harbor.

Did you know that downtown Detroit has a state park? Tri-Centennial State Park and Harbor, located on the Detroit River between Rivard and St. Aubin Streets, is a work in progress. We need your help to complete this park’s recreation plan!

Please join the community for a two hour workshop to help decide the future recreation development of Michigan’s only urban state park. Come to share your ideas for this state park.

Where:  Christ Church of Detroit, Ledyard Hall, 960 E. Jefferson (Use the Woodbridge St. entrance) Detroit, MI 48207

When: Wednesday, January 14, 2009 (Alternate date in case of severe weather is January 21).  Choose the time option that works best for you!

• Option 1: 3- 5 p.m.
• Option 2: 7- 9 p.m.

Please R.S.V.P. by January 6, 2009, either by email at SenkoL1@michigan.gov, or phone at 517-373-9900.

Seating is limited, so be sure to R.S.V.P. and reserve your opportunity to participate!

Group organizations/clubs are requested to limit their member participation to two (2) representatives, to allow as many organizations and individuals to participate as possible. If you cannot attend, you can still share your comments by sending them to: DNR-Tri-Centennial@michigan.gov.

Light refreshments will be provided.