News Article

Riverfront construction continued throughout the end of the year with several projects making significant progress.

Gabriel Richard Park

The just-completed winding concrete walkway and a 38-spot parking
lot will provide easier access to Gabriel Richard Park for spring visitors. During the fall, dramatic ground-level lighting was installed at the popular brick labyrinth.Construction of the new restroom facility, which will accommodate larger crowds using the park in 2015 will be completed in the spring. 

Chene Park—East/West Parcels

During the last several months, contractors successfully completed the restoration of the seawall, installed underground utilities and poured
concrete for walkways and planters at parcels east and west of Chene Park.  The iconic stainless steel RiverWalk railing, benches and waste
receptacles are in place at both locations.  Contractors are now installing light poles and security cameras.  At the entrance to Chene Park, the remaining concrete planters are being poured and work on the circular concrete section adjacent to Atwater Street is now underway.

Crews will be back on site at both parcels in the spring for the installation of all final landscaping.

Dequindre Cut — North

Significant progress on the half-mile extension of the Dequindre Cut has been made this fall.  All restoration work at the Division and Adelaide street bridges is complete and the Alfred Street bridge has been demolished. New structural supports for the Wilkins Street bridge are underway.

Along the extension, storm sewer piping has been installed, and most of all underground electrical for lighting and security cameras is complete.  A retaining wall surrounded by decorative stone that allows for easy drainage is in place.

Next spring, asphalt will be poured along the walkway, landscaping will be installed, and all accessories such as benches, waste receptacles and
security call boxes will be placed. Once the project is complete, the Detroit RiverFront Conservancy will be responsible for the operation and maintenance of the entire two miles of the Dequindre Cut.

The Outdoor Adventure Center

Exhibit crews continue to work inside the historic Globe Building as it transforms into the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ Outdoor Adventure Center.  Over the last several months, workers have been making significant progress on the center’s three-story waterfall and Michigan forest.  Since relocating this summer from Southfield to the OAC, the DNR’s Operation Service Center has been extremely busy facilitating visitor requests for information.