Detroit Opens Segment of Joe Lewis Greenway

A 27.5 mile multi-use greenway in Michigan is one step closer to reality, with the city of Detroit opening one segment on its west side between Warren Avenue and Joy Road. The segment follows an old railroad right-of-way adjacent to the Barton McFarland neighborhood.

In an article for WDET, Laura Herberg writes that the Joe Lewis Greenway will eventually cross four cities and provide amenities such as running and walking paths, lighting, playground and fitness equipment, and public lawns. “The city’s goal is for the trail to be within a 10-minute walk for all residents. When finished it will connect with the Dequindre Cut and the Detroit Riverwalk, forming a loop.” The greenway will connect to protected on-street bike lanes and other trails to create access to more destinations for people on bike or on foot.

The city says it used community input from public meetings and comments to include design elements desired by local residents, such as the playground, a pavilion for gatherings, and an open lawn. According to the city’s website for the project, “The construction of the pathway is slated to be completed in 5 to 10 years, dependent on funding. Additional amenities, programming, art, will be planned and developed after the Greenway is fully constructed.”