Reimagining Detroit

Hill points out that, behind the mainstream narrative of a once-mighty industrial city left to decay is another story, one that involves grassroots efforts such as urban gardens and solar panels that will help to turn Detroit into a new kind of city for the 21st century. "Look closely at Detroit," he says,

"...and you'll learn lessons with implications far beyond the asphalt capillaries of the Motor City.

The alternative proposal is to put the region's skilled labor force to work building the next generation of green technology, turning Detroit into the green manufacturing hub for North America. Factories that once made Fords and Chevrolets could now make solar panels, electric streetcars and electric cars. Detroit could once again become the heart of America's industrial engine, albeit one that pumps significantly greener lifeblood.

As the Great Recession drags on and city and state governments across the country propose sweeping budget cuts and various draconian measures, Detroit's community-led efforts for change offer a vision for a saner alternative."