Image
The Eliza Howell Park features more than two miles of scenic walking trails along the Rouge River, and is a wildlife haven. The park also has a vibrant arts and culture scene and is home to artist Patrick Dougherty’s ‘Stickwork’ sculpture. Photo credit: Lunar Haus.
Project Dates: Fall 2023–Spring 2025
Client: Sidewalk Detroit
SEAS Advisor: Lisa DuRussel, Assistant Professor of Practice, Landscape Architecture
SEAS Students: Emily Brent, Grace Carbeck, Myles Markey, Kammer Offenhauser
About the Client
Sidewalk Detroit is a nonprofit organization with a mission to “advance public life and strong social infrastructure through the lens of arts, culture, collaborative design, and deep engagement with residents.” The organization’s past community initiatives have included neighborhood building that combines residents’ vision with artistic ideation and strategy to create engaging, welcoming spaces. Sidewalk strives to offer cultural programs and inclusive public art installations that improve quality of life for residents across metro Detroit.
About the Project
This project team is collaborating with Sidewalk Detroit to create a detailed plan for Eliza Howell Park — the fourth largest park in the City, with more than 250 acres on the northwest side — focusing on native plant restoration and invasive species management. The partnership aims to shape Sidewalk’s park projects for the future. Located in the Brightmoor neighborhood, Eliza Howell Park has been undergoing improvements since 2015 through community involvement and various enhancements - including the restoration of a vernal pond, the addition of benches, paths and interpretive signage, and the installation of Patrick Dougherty’s Stickwork sculpture (pictured above).
The student effort will involve a park survey, development of a long-term management plan, and creation of a comprehensive master plan for the park’s future. Sidewalk’s ultimate goal is to transform the park into a welcoming intergenerational community space for Detroit residents, and the organization’s Master Concept Plan has already been endorsed by the City of Detroit.
The team's final report and deliverables will be available on this webpage, upon the project's conclusion in April 2025.