Formerly a Grand Trunk Railroad line, the Dequindre Cut is a predominantly below-street level greenway that runs parallel to St. Aubin Street, between Mack Avenue and Atwater Street, just north of the Detroit River. Well known for its examples of urban artwork and graffiti, the greenway features a 20-foot-wide paved pathway, which includes separate lanes for pedestrian and bicycle traffic. The extension of the Dequindre Cut that opened in April 2016 takes pedestrians into the heart of the Eastern Market. Also along this stretch, the Wilkins Street Plaza—with its soaring canopy, bike racks and a variety of seating options—provides a place for pedestrians to take a break while visiting the Dequindre Cut.
| Infrastructure Type | Railway |
| Status | Open / Ongoing |
| Opening | First leg: May 2009 Second leg: April 2016 |
| Size | 2 miles |
| Design Team | Smith Group JJR |
| Management | Managed and operated by the Detroit RiverFront Conservancy in partnership with the City of Detroit |
Mark Wallace, CEO of the Detroit RiverFront Conservancy, discusses the major improvements coming to Detroit’s east and west waterfront.
The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy is turning its attention to the nearby West Riverfront Park, and has announced a design competition to transform the 22-acre site which was closed to the public until 2014.
Good news for Detroit bikers, walkers and general green-space lovers: The city has struck a deal with Conrail to purchase 76 acres of railroad property, which will be transformed into a bike and pedestrian-friendly greenway.
