Detroiters for Parking Reform invites you to join us for our 3rd Annual Park(ing) Day Weekend Walking Tour. It’s our attempt to raise awareness of how misguided parking policies geared toward providing cheap, abundant parking have created a shortage of affordable housing and urban amenities, contribute to air and water pollution, and foster ever-greater car dependence as destinations become ever further apart.
What
Join Detroiters for Parking Reform on Saturday, September 21 at 2:00 p.m. at Spirit of Detroit Plaza (Woodward between Jefferson and Larned) for our annual Park(ing) Day Weekend Walking Tour. You’ll see how the East Riverfront evolved from an industrial riverfront to its current form. The Detroit Riverfront as well as the Renaissance Center and I-375, have been in the news throughout 2024. It’s ancipated that they’ll continue to make headlines for years to come. This year’s annual Walking Tour of Detroit’s (in)famous examples of urban land misuse will zero in on the East Riverfront.
Like many parts of downtown, the East Riverfront was transformed in the mid-20th century by large-scale urban renewal. Jefferson Avenue was widened. I-375 cut off portions of the riverfront from downtown. Later, the construction of the Renaissance Center in the 1970s brought dramatic change. The construction of the 5 million square-foot RenCen created enormous demand for parking in the surrounding area. Not long after the RenCen opened, Detroit’s last remaining commuter rail line, SEMTA Commuter Rail, connecting Pontiac and the Woodward Corridor with the RenCen and downtown, ceased operating.
We’ll look at more recent developments, like how the Detroit Riverwalk enhances waterfront access and walkability. You’ll also see how the oversupply of parking holds back the riverfront’s potential. Lastly, we’ll wrap up at a local watering hole with some simple collective action to remind policymakers about the need for common-sense parking reform.
No cost to attend, however free will donations to offset costs associated with running our website are gratefully accepted. We hope to see you there!
Where
Spirit Plaza, 2 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48226
When
Saturday, September 21, 2024, 2:00 p.m.
RSVP
2023 Photo Gallery
