Detroit, Michigan has shown a lot of growth this Spring, with many projects coming to a close and and many starting anew. A project that is finishing up right now is one that is connecting 20 miles of walking, running, and bicycling paths through the city of Detroit. According to CBS Detroit, these paths cost about $21 million and were started in 2012. This project began due to funding from the city and the state, and from donations from groups like the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, The McGregor Fund, and the Kresge Foundation. A staple of this project is the Dequindre Cut Greenway, a path that is just over a mile long.
The new pathways and connector pathways now connect areas like Wayne State, Eastern Market, and Hamtramck. The main push for these pathways is to make Detroit a biker friendly city, which many believe in turn will make Detroit a family friendly city. Many city groups on both sides of the Detroit River hope that with the construction of the Gordy Howe International Bridge, which is scheduled to open in 2020, will allow bike paths to extend from Windsor, Canada to Detroit, which would be a unique, international connection.
A bike friendly city is very important for automobile drivers as well. Allowing bikers to get around without riding on roadways makes bicycling far safer and allows for drivers to focus on other traffic impediments. Bicycle crashes are often fatal, so this is a big win for cycling enthusiasts. This move will also hopefully inspire a new breed of Detroiters to start riding their bicycles to run errands, go to work, and for leisure, thereby keeping cars off the road. Fewer cars on the road makes driving safer for those on the road, and keeps down on traffic. The city of Detroit keeps investing in projects such as this and is seeing both short term and long term benefits, so many hope these projects will continue within the city limits.
If you or someone you know has been involved in an auto or bicycle accident, call The Michigan Law Firm PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in helping bicyclists who have been hit by cars, identify and receive any benefits they may be entitled to, under Michigan law. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.