A new federal grant will help the city link the Joe Louis Greenway to the state-traversing Iron Belle Trail .
Why it matters: The $20.7 million infrastructure grant will help bring the long-awaited 27.5-mile city greenway closer to completion.
- The funds will be used to construct two paths within a connected network of 2,000 miles from the Upper Peninsula to Belle Isle, serving both the city’s greenway and the state’s Iron Belle Trail.
State of play: Officials announced Monday that the federal funds will be allocated for road and pathway construction on Woodmere Street on the city’s west side and Dequindre Street, just north of the Dequindre Cut.
- The Dequindre work includes shifting the curb, removing one of the road’s lanes and installing safety measures at the intersection with Mack Avenue.
Catch up quick: The Joe Louis Greenway Partnership is a nonprofit formed to raise money for the citywide loop, operate it long term and engage with communities along it.
- The city is constructing the greenway, expected to be complete in five to 10 years, depending on funding.
- When the nonprofit was announced, its financing needs included a $100 million or more endowment.