Revamped Detroit riverfront park, pavilion now open

DETROIT (AP) — A revamped park opening along Detroit’s east riverfront is part of continued redevelopment in an area critical to the city’s future, officials said Friday.

The Mount Elliott Park and Pavilion features jets that send torrents of water from a replica of a shipwrecked schooner.

The park is the third plaza and pavilion developed by the nonprofit Detroit RiverFront Conservancy along the riverfront east of downtown.

The park is part of three miles of pathways, parks and green space connected by the popular RiverWalk.

“I see the future of Detroit every time I walk our riverfront and watch the men, women and children in our community and visitors gathering together to enjoy this spectacular asset,” U.S. Sen. Carl Levin, D-Mich., said in a statement.

A ribbon-cutting and celebration took place Friday to mark the park’s debut.

The RiverFront Conservancy raises funds for construction, operation, maintenance, security and programming of public spaces along the Detroit River.

“The public-private partnership behind the Conservancy has proven to be a key in successfully building a premier destination for residents, businesses and visitors,” said Lt. Governor Brian Calley.

A number of other projects are taking place along the riverfront, including improvements to Gabriel Richard Park.

There’s also the planned fall opening of the state Department of Natural Resources’ Outdoor Adventure Center.

The Conservancy’s first phase of development along the west riverfront opens this year, with a 20-acre green space on the site of a former printing facility.