The Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) are excited to announce the successful partnership and grant funding for the development of a new non-motorized multi-use trail serving the Detroit community, as well as residents of Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties. This project aims to enhance outdoor recreational opportunities at Belle Isle Park and provide scenic water views from Belle Isle to Canada and the Riverfront.
The new trail is designed to cater to the most popular year-round activities at Belle Isle Park, including walking, biking, and enjoying river views. It will connect the newly completed Riverfront connection to the MacArthur Bridge on the mainland and establish a trail from Belle Isle to the MacArthur Bridge. This will enhance non-motorized access to the park and the statewide Iron Belle Trail. The Belle Isle Park Trails Master Plan, completed in 2016, incorporated robust community feedback, prioritizing ADA-accessible trails and the addition of amenities such as drinking fountains, bicycle fix-it stations, and MoGo bike-sharing stations.
To ensure the ongoing success of this initiative, the DNR will implement pedestrian and bicycle counters to track trail usage, providing valuable data to guide future improvements and community engagement efforts. The project team learned from phase 1, where unforeseen underground conditions and poor soil quality led to increased costs and construction delays. By proactively addressing these challenges, the team aims to ensure a smoother construction process moving forward.
This trail project is a testament to the power of community collaboration and thoughtful planning. By enhancing non-motorized trails and pathway connections within Belle Isle Park and to the Riverfront, city neighborhoods, and beyond, we are fostering healthy outdoor activities and creating lasting benefits for the community.
By working together, we are paving the way for a brighter, healthier future for Belle Isle Park and the communities it serves. Join us in celebrating this remarkable achievement and the many adventures that await on these new trails.
