A new pedestrian bridge over a freeway has reconnected a Detroit neighborhood with new accessibility and a new park.
"When plans for reconfiguring the knot of highways and surface streets began in the 1980s, community leaders in Mexicantown realized the three-year construction-Michigan's biggest-ever transportation project-would have dire consequences for business owners. They fought to offset the impact with a pedestrian bridge to reunify Bagley Avenue, split in the early 1970s by the I-75 interstate freeway.
"We were able to make an infrastructure project a part of a larger vision of economic development for the neighborhood and southwest Detroit," said Margaret Garry, former vice president of real estate and development for the Mexicantown Community Development Corporation (MCDC) and managing partner at Detroit Geothermal."
The project was more than 25 years in the making, but is finally complete.
FULL STORY: Motor City Freeway Span
New International Bridge Rising Over the Detroit River
The Gordie Howe International Bridge is under construction, towering over the Detroit River at a height of 772 feet on the U.S. side of the river.
Massive Private Gift to Fund Parks and Trails in Detroit, Buffalo
The gift is especially notable for its contributions toward efforts to redevelop Detroit's West Riverfront.
An Ambitious Revitalization Partnership in Detroit
Bringing together the city, developers, and philanthropic support, Fitz Forward aims to redevelop 300 parcels. Backers hope it will serve as a model for other neighborhoods.
2024: The Year in Zoning
Cities and states are leaning on zoning reform to help stem the housing crisis and create more affordable, livable neighborhoods.
NACTO Releases Updated Urban Bikeway Guide
The third edition of the nationally recognized road design guide includes detailed design advice for roads that prioritize safety and accessibility for all users.
Denver Pauses Multifamily Development in Westside Neighborhoods Amidst Gentrification Concerns
City officials say the pause on permits for redevelopment projects aims to stop the displacement of long-term residents.
After the Fires: Challenges and Efforts to Heal LA’s Parks and Trails
The recent LA wildfires have devastated parks and trails, with recovery efforts requiring extended closures, collaborative restoration plans, and community support to address extensive damage and long-term risks like landslides.
DC Launches New Round of E-Bike Rebates
District residents can apply for a subsidy of up to $1,500 to purchase e-bikes.
Why Aren’t There More Bollards in US Cities?
Solid barriers, like the dormant ones in New Orleans, are commonly used to improve road safety in Europe. Why not here?
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
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Skagit Transit
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Chaddick Institute at DePaul University
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service
City of Cambridge, Maryland