Planning Detroit’s Conner Creek Greenway:

Attracting Eastside Neighbors

Regina Ann Campbell - Jazmin Marie Casas - Lindsay-Jean Hard Jenifer Huestis - Howard Karp - Mitchell Wimbish Department of Urban and Regional Planning - University of Michigan 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS

List of Figures 4

Acknowledgements 5

Introduction 6

History 9

Site Analysis 14 • Demographics 15 • Community Assets 18 • Public Transportation 20

Community Involvement 23

Greenway Precedents 27

Route 32

Design 38 • CPTED 39 • Lighting 39 • Plantings 41 • Signage 42 • Surfacing 44 • Nodes and Amenities 47

Maintenance 50

Programming 54

Conclusion 58

Team Biographies, Bibliography, and Figure Sources 61

Appendices 67 • A: Greenway Background and Literature Review 68 • B: Demographic Change Over Time Tables 70 • C: Community Assets Table 72 • D: After School Programs Table 77 • E: Transit Coverage Table 78 • F: Recommended Lighting Levels Table 79 • G: Surfacing Typology 80 • H: Urban Greenway Precedents Table 81

3 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: Greenway Reference Map 6 Figure 2: 1915 Plan of Detroit 9 Figure 3: Historical Sanborn Map 10 Figure 4: Historical Conner Creek 11 Figure 5: Joe Randazzo’s Market 14 Figure 6: Median Household Income 17 Figure 7: Percentage of African American Residents 17 Figure 8: Percentage of Population between the Ages of 5 – 17 17 Figure 9: Percentage of Population Aged 65 and Over 18 Figure 10: Churches within the Study Area 19 Figure 11: Educational Resources within the Study Area 19 Figure 12: Key Nodes and Common Areas 20 Figure 13: Detroit Bus Lines in Study Area 21 Figure 14: Detroit Bus System Ridership 22 Figure 15: Detroit Bus System Ridership Chart 22 Figure 16: Planting Buffer for Greenway Users 23 Figure 17: Mural Wall in Battle Creek Linear Park 27 Figure 18: Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail Street Crossing 28 Figure 19: Bulb-out in Vancouver, Canada 28 Figure 20: Greenway in Tsukuba, Japan 29 Figure 21: New York City’s Hudson River Park – Lighting 29 Figure 22: New York City’s Hudson River Park – Trail Surface 30 Figure 23: Conner Creek Greenway Route 31 Figure 24: Eastern View of Clairpointe Approaching Jefferson 32 Figure 25: Eastern View of Conner between Jefferson and Mack 32 Figure 26: Looking East across Conner at Warren 33 Figure 27: Clearly Marked Crosswalks and Curbcuts 33 Figure 28: Bridge Crossing I-94 Freeway 33 Figure 29: Crossing Conner at Corbett Street 34 Figure 30: Clearly Marked Crosswalk 35 Figure 31: Pedestrian Right-of-Way Crosswalk 36 Figure 32: Street Narrowing, Medians and Sidewalks 36 Figure 33: Native Tree Species Buffer 37 Figure 34: Desirable and Undesirable Lighting Patterns 39 Figure 35: Desirable and Undesirable Lighting Heights 40 Figure 36: Example of an Informational – Directional Sign 42 Figure 37: Example of an Educational – Interpretive Sign 43 Figure 38: CVS Historical Photograph Display 43 Figure 39: Shopping Plaza in McKinney, Texas 44 Figure 40: Example of Festival Sign 44 Figure 41: Curb-cuts to Increase Accessibility 45 Figure 42: Comparison of Trail Surfaces Table 45 Figure 43: Example of Asphalt Surfacing 46 Figure 44: Example of Concrete Surfacing 46 Figure 45: Example of Pervious Asphalt Surfacing 46 Figure 46: Design Concept for Node at Warren Conner Shopping Plaza 47 Figure 47: Design Concept for Node at Lipke Park 48 Figure 48: Design Concept for Node at Chandler Park 49 Figure 49: Design Concept for the Intersection of Conner and Gratiot 49 Figure 50: Community Participation with Maintenance 50 Figure 51: Suggested Greenway Maintenance Schedule 53 Figure 52: Bike Decorating Contest 54 Figure 53: Enhanced Natural Beauty 58 Figure 54: Plantings with Desirable Traits 60

4 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Members of the Detroit Eastside Community Collaborative (DECC) Greenway Committee, especially John Ballard, Patricia Bosch, Maggie DeSantis, and Libby Pachota

Healthy Environments Partnership – Amy Schulz and Sheryl Weir

University of Michigan School of Public Heath students – Erica Bolinger, Elina Bradfi eld, Katie Loveland, and Marianna Sachse

Christopher Coutts, University of Michigan, Department of Urban and Regional Planning , Donna Erickson, University of Michigan, School of Natural Resources and Environment

Gregory Parrish, City of Detroit Planning and Development Department

Henry Guthard, DECC Project Director

Lisa Jaroch, Hamilton-Anderson Associates

Norman Cox, Greenway Collaborative

Sonya Grant-Pierson, Rebuilding Communities, Inc.

Participants in the City of Detroit Greenway Charrette (March 28, 2006)

Funding provided by:

The Lean & Green in Motown Program, a project directed by the Healthy Environments Partnership, a community based participatory research project funded by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences’ “Health Disparities Initiative.”

5 INTRODUCTION

Figure 1: Greenway Reference Map

6 The idea for the Conner Creek Greenway stemmed other leisure activities. However, a greenway in from the memories of a creek that ran along Conner an urban setting, such as Detroit, is not completely Street and connected to the Detroit River, during green and may include signifi cant portions of the early 1900s. From its early-recorded years the neighborhood sidewalk (Refer to Appendix A for Conner Creek area was used for recreation and further information). transportation. Its natural surroundings made it an ideal place to play and collect wild fruits and nuts. It In an effort to understand the surrounding greenway was a site of early grain mills, serving local farms and context we selected a sub-area based upon the transporting goods out to the river. Later it became a distance that potential users would travel to reach the site of heavy industry. In addition, a large portion of trail. Our study area is as: Eight Mile Road (N), the this area was used for Detroit’s fi rst airport, which is Detroit River (S), Mt. Elliot (W), and Chalmers (E). still in use to this day. As with the rest of the City of Our route selection focused on identifying the safest Detroit, the auto industry had a dramatic effect on the road crossing points, connecting the Greenway with eastside with plant openings and closings. Massive existing community assets, and providing unifying suburban growth decreased the area’s population. elements along the path to enhance the sense of All the while, the creek was increasingly confi ned cohesion. underground until only the segment near the river was exposed. In an effort to make suggestions for the development and design of the greenway, we consulted with The vision for the Conner Creek Greenway will pay community residents. We reviewed the fi ndings homage to this natural and historical heritage but also of eight focus groups conducted by the Healthy provide a recreational space for visitors to use after Environments Partnership (HEP). In addition, we work, exercise, relax, connect to community assets, met with community leaders involved with DECC or simple enjoy programming along the greenway. and participated in the Citywide Greenway Charrette The initial planning for this greenway began through that was hosted by the Planning and Development the Detroit Eastside Community Collaborative Department for the City of Detroit. Also, using (DECC), which is comprised of community leaders guidelines from the Crime Prevention through from various organizations. According to their Environmental Design Organization (CPTED) we grant application, DECC had four major goals: 1) to focused on neighborhood safety. provide an opportunity for safe non-motorized travel, 2) enhance the natural landscape, 3) create an After a semester of planning, designing, programming awareness of their cultural heritage, and 4) improve and researching we created recommendations for economic development. These goals will be attained future development phases of the greenway. First, through community efforts, collaboration with implement programming based on neighborhood businesses and participation from the community. context. For example, on the north end of the greenway, the majority of youth is clustered in this area In this report, we will introduce the development therefore activities such as concerts and art projects for the Greenway located on the eastside. As a would be appropriate. Second, lighting, planting, professional project from the University of Michigan, and signage selection should be based on CPTED we worked on the physical design of the greenway, principles as a strategy to promote neighborhood researched its history, determined major nodes of safety. Community members emphasized the activities, programming and came up with ideas importance of maintaining an attractive and clean for creative maintenance strategies. But what is a path in order to attract users. Third, due to limited greenway and what is its function on a larger scale? resources, creative maintenance strategies will be necessary. For example, an Adopt-a-Greenway A greenway is a network of non-motorized trails program would involve local businesses along the and open spaces that links neighborhoods and greenway to help maintain a discrete segment. In destinations. These destinations include parks, turn, a pleasant looking greenway would increase schools, medical clinics, libraries and shopping property value and help generate clientele for centers. They permit walking, jogging, rollerblading, local businesses. Fourth, a greenway will enhance biking, meditation and engaged walking, as well as community identity. Finally, connecting the greenway

7 Conner Creek Greenway Plan to the riverfront would benefi t visitors by introducing a restorative space and help connect people to natural resources.

8 HISTORY

Figure 2: In The 1915 Plan Of Detroit Edward Bennett Proposed The Construction Of A Greeenway Along Conner Creek While It Flowed Above Ground.

9 Conner Creek Greenway Plan

Before cars and skyscrapers, Detroit was a natural prairie with wetlands, streams and creeks. Early settlers fi rst used canoes to travel along the Detroit River. Beginning in the 1700s, ferries transported people between Detroit and Windsor across the river. By 1882, ferries moved people to and from Belle Isle. (Baulch 2006)

The area around Conner Creek was inhabited by Algonquin and Iroquois indigenous people who fi shed and camped near its shore. Flowing from present-day Warren to the Detroit River, the creek provided a throughway for transporting furs and handmade items for trade with Europeans.

In 1700, the creek was named Trombley’s Creek after a powerful family that had settled nearby. This area experienced the same dramatic landscape change common to the region. Forests were cleared to make room for farming, granaries, and saw mills. Early

Conner Creek in the 1880s and 1890s:

“The picturesque Conner’s Creek Valley was perhaps one of the last…to be given up to the white settlers. The valley was afforded shelter from the harsh winter winds and an abundance of wild life inhabited the woods and drank from the creek. The stream teemed with fi sh that could be easily caught and edible nut trees grew on the banks… Each season brought new attractions to the creek and the valley. During the winter the valley was a winter wonderland that echoed with children’s laughter and squeals of delight as they coasted merrily down the snowy hillsides…After the spring fl oods had swirled through the high banks of the valley in a river of muddy water, the surrounding woods and hillsides took on a new life. Waxy yellow buttercups, pink hepatica, yellow adder’s tongue, blue violets, and purple wild geraniums bloomed in wild profusion. In the summer the vines of luscious black thimble berries laced the hill sides…and wild grapes, fed by the stream, grew large and juicy. The woods surrounding the creek were mostly of hard wood; maples, oak, hickory, elm, and black walnut. Here and there willows dipped graceful branches into the water. In the fall these trees turned the landscape into a Figure 3: Sanborn Maps Of The Greenway Area riot of color, while hickory nuts and black walnuts From 1930 To 1950 littered the ground….” (Watson 1907)

10 mills relied on the creek as a power source for their opportunity to mix and mingle with his friends and industry. During the 1800s, industrial advancement, neighbors, and engage in clean and wholesome public schools, and growing churches attracted more recreation” (Brewer 1922). Conner Creek was a people to Southeastern Michigan and to the eastside good source of wholesome recreation. It was a of Detroit. In 1818, the creek was renamed Conner’s favored place for children to swim and catch frogs Creek in honor of the wealthy Henry Conner who despite being surrounded by smoky industrial had married a member of the Trombley family. In factories. However, the creek often fl ooded and 1927 the City of Detroit offi cially changed its name posed a danger to children eager to enter its swirling to Conner Creek. water.

Farms dominated the creek’s edge during the 1800s, The city asked Edward H. Bennett to address this using it as a key source of water and transportation area as a part of his 1915 Plan for Detroit. Bennet had for their products. To make room for increasing assisted Daniel Burnham on the famous 1909 Plan farms, several portions of the creek were piped of Chicago and he went on to create City Beautiful underground. Those portions of the creek that plans for towns and cities throughout Canada and remained above ground were a favorite play area for the United States until the 1940s. Acknowledging local children. the importance of space By 1900, dedicated Detroit was an to public incorporated city recreation, with a substantial Bennett population who recommended demanded the construction public services. of a greenway In 1910, the along this fl ood- Playground prone area. The Committee plan singled of the Detroit out Conner Federation Creek as one of Women’s of the only Clubs petitioned natural assets, the mayor for other than the a municipal Detroit River, playground to and suggested serve children Figure 4: Historical Conner Creek Circa 1907 enhancing in the city (Arthur the creek by 1926). By 1914, developing newspapers reported the city as failing to provide a greenway that ran six miles north from the river playgrounds for 78,000 of its 85,000 children. (Comey 1915). This greenway, or locally termed Playgrounds were referred to as “a practical, logical parkway, was partially completed, but pieces were and permanent development made necessary by slowly developed for transportation and industry. the rapid growth of cities and the elimination of the Today, Connor Playfi eld is the only remaining piece backyard and village common.” (Detroit Saturday of the parkway. Night 1914, 20) The 1920s were particularly important for sports on Between 1914 and 1922, Detroit added 29 Detroit’s eastside. Located at the corner of Mack and playgrounds and playfi elds. It ranked third for Conner, Mack Park housed Detroit’s Negro National the number of acres devoted exclusively to parks League baseball team the Detroit Stars from 1920 to surpassing systems in Chicago and Baltimore. The 1933. Even though Mack Park was considered far Park Commissioner fought for increased open space from downtown, black and white fans would fl ock to believing it would give every citizen of Detroit “an the park each game day (approximately four days a

11 Conner Creek Greenway Plan week) to cheer and jeer so wildly that “a blind man Lacking industrial diversity, the city’s economy could enjoy games” (Batchelor 1922, 2). At a time suffered great blows when the automobile industry when Detroit’s black population had grown from experienced recessions, resulting in high levels of 5,700 to 41,000 in a decade, the Negro League unemployment. provided one of the few recreational activities for black residents. The Great Depression dealt a Industrial changes also transformed the eastside’s blow to the League, and, unlike some Negro League landscape in the 1950s and 1960s. In addition to teams, after the Detroit Stars ceased operations in social forces like unemployment and decreasing 1933, they never returned (Bak 1987). family wealth, pressure from industrial growth forced the internment of Conner Creek in pipes underground. Sanborn map analysis revealed a large number of Only a small portion of the creek south of the Detroit temporary war-time housing units located in Chandler Water and Sewerage facility (near Maheras-Gentry Park in the 1940s. These temporary housing Park) continues to fl ow above ground. structures accommodated several families in each unit. To support wartime and growing industrial Industrial automation and outsourcing contributed to worker populations, in the 1950s, there were more racial tension in Detroit in the 1960s. Analysis of small commercial and retail stores along the past events show that economic shifts, especially the signifi cant arterials of Conner, Warren, and Gratiot. exportation of manufacturing jobs overseas, “most However, because temporary wartime structures dramatically harmed African Americans and Latinos were removed, a signifi cant amount of multi-family in the declining areas, since they had relatively less housing units in our area was lost. Additional housing mobility than whites…African Americans especially and natural space was replaced through the 1940s, were stranded in communities that had no further 1950s and 1960s to make way for the Edsel Ford demand for their talents” (Goldsmith and Blakely Expressway and the City Airport passenger terminal 1992, 102). In 1960s Detroit, economic inequality, expansion. affordable housing shortages, and urban renewal Industrial changes altered Detroit’s social and projects raised tensions between black and white residents until a routine raid on an after-hours drinking club sparked race riots in 1967. Fires and The History of Sanborn Maps: looting spread from the northwest side of the city onto the eastside resulting in 43 fatalities and 7000 The Sanborn maps were created by the Sanborn arrests. Fire Insurance Company in the middle to late 1800s for towns and cities throughout the United Though the eastside was not the epicenter of riot States. These maps included every building activity, the uprising induced massive white fl ight from footprint, use, and construction information. We around Conner Creek. Between 1960 and 1970, the used these maps to understand how this area of African American population south of Interstate 94 Eastern Detroit evolved and changed since the on the eastside grew by 50%-100% (Herman 2006). 1950s. This fl ight to the suburbs stranded the city’s poorest residents within these neighborhoods. As research economic situation from the 1930s to 1960s. has shown, concentrated areas of poverty have Painful blows from the depression and an emphasis less social capital creating a downward spiral that on economies of scale left little room for small induces a sentiment of hopelessness (Dreier et al. independent automobile manufacturers (Wright 2001, Wilson 1996, Waquant 1997) 2006). This change is evident through analysis of historical Sanborn maps. Over time these land use The social and economic trends beginning in the maps show a consolidation of industrial buildings 1960s and 1970s continued until the mid 1990s when into a few larger manufacturing plants the city’s population stabilized at approximately 1 million people and businesses slowly began to The formation of the “Big Three,” General Motors, reinvest in the city. After much expansion, City Ford, and Chrysler, combined with an increasingly Airport continued to serve as a major hub for global economy led to major automobile industry passengers through the 1980s and 1990s, but by employment of automation and outsourcing. 2000 it changed to focus on freight, corporate, and 12 private planes. Decades of natural degradation, social upheaval, and economic decline have left residents around the airport, and along the greenway, with few natural amenities. In addition, multiple schools and a police station have been removed from this area. The number of public institutions has decreased over time. Sanborn maps show a loss of housing in the southwestern portion of the corridor. Finally, despite the overall residential loss, single- family home lot sizes throughout this corridor have remained relatively consistent.

Conner Creek Greenway will return natural recreation to Detroit’s eastside along the path over the underground creek. Providing indigenous vegetation will provide children an outdoor classroom reminiscent of the children catching frogs in the 1920s. Winter sports like sledding and snow ball fi ghts might restore children’s enjoyment of the space, and landscaping will reintroduce the riot of color people experienced in the 1880s. We hope that greenway paths can produce wholesome recreation and mingling of neighbors the park commission strove for in the 1920s. Finally we hope that the greenway will be a restorative feature on the eastside that will help overcome the social struggles facing the area’s residents. The Conner Creek Greenway gives residents of Detroit’s eastside an opportunity to celebrate their natural and cultural past by enjoying their lives today.

13 SITE ANALYSIS

Figure 5: Joe Randazzo’s Market

14 HISTORICAL DEMOGRAPHICS been poorer than the city average. In each successive decade from 1970 through 2000 the average family Defi ning the study area income in the study area has been approximately We chose this area to capture the largest group of 15-20% less than the city as a whole. Though potential users within local census tract boundaries. average family income has increased consistently The study area for the greenway stretches 2.94 miles with infl ation relative to the city of Detroit, poverty west of Conner Street to Mt. Elliott and 1 mile east levels increased signifi cantly from 1970 to 2000. to Chalmers. This area is approximately 25 square This translates into increasing proportions of the miles and consists of 58 census tracts ranging population earning an income below the poverty line. approximately eight to nine miles from the northern In 1970, approximately 16% of residents in the study tip of the greenway at Eight Mile Road to its southern area earned an income below the poverty level. By tip at the Detroit River. 2000 the proportion of poor residents more than doubled to 34%. Similar to the disparity between Demograhic Change Over Time average income in the study area and city, a larger Consistent with the city’s population loss, the eastside proportion of study area residents are impoverished study area lost a considerable number of residents than in the city as a whole. Compared to the 34% between 1970 and 2000. For detailed demographic of residents in the study area who lived below the change tables refer to Appendix B. Total population poverty line in 2000, only 28% of all city residents for the study area decreased from approximately are earning a wage beneath the poverty line. These 316,000 to 167,000 between 1970 and 2000. The fi ndings are important to note because areas with shift in the racial composition of this area was equally high concentrations of poverty face a number of dramatic during this period. In 1970, white residents unique social issues that must be addressed. comprised 52% of the area, and black residents represented 47% of the population. By 2000, white Some communities face increasing poverty because representation in the neighborhoods had decreased of changes in the age of their population. Young to 6% and black residents constituted 93% of the families with children and older residents typically total population. earn less income than people in prime wage earning years. This, however, can not explain poverty in the Despite demographic changes, the study area has study area. Increasing poverty near the greenway maintained neighborhood stability as measured is neither a function of an aging population nor an by residents’ length of stay. Approximately 49% of infl ux of young families with children. Aside from people fi ve years of age or older remained in their a slight increase in children fi ve to nine years old, homes for fi ve years or more in 1970. In 2000 this the number of children between 1970 and 2000 number had risen slightly to about 57%. In regards decreased slightly. The area has lost young adults to neighborhood stability, the northern portions of the after the age of high school graduation. Similarly, study area (north of I-94) have developed differently with the exception of those persons over 75 years, than those in the south. In 1970 the areas below I- the number of persons 55 years and older has 94 were notably less stable than in the north. While decreased as a percent of the total population. The only 43% of people in the south were still living in more rapidly growing age category is for persons 35 the same house as they had fi ve years prior, 58% of to 55 years old. People in this age group are typically northern residents remained in their homes at least in their prime wage earning stage and should be able fi ve years. By 1980 stability was inverted with 58% to sustain their families. The maintenance of high of people in southern communities remaining in their levels of poverty despite the presence of a growing homes over fi ve years and only 53% residing in the working-age population suggests problems in local same homes in the north. Through the 2000 census employment structures. southern neighborhoods had remained consistent at 58%, and northern communities were rising to their The increase in poverty from 1970 to 2000 may former level of stability. In 2000, 56% of northern be attributable to the growth in female-headed residents had been living in their homes for at least families. In 1970 only 25% of families with children fi ve years. were headed by females. By 1990 this number rose to 65%, and decreased only slightly to 63.5% Residents within the study area have traditionally in 2000. Female-headed households suggest a

15 Conner Creek Greenway Plan single-earning household and an increasing number Income and poverty levels are important for estimated of female-headed households in the area may greenway usage. Lower-income persons are contribute to increased poverty. typically less likely to use the greenway frequently because of higher crime in their neighborhoods, After losing almost half of the population, the area’s limited access to natural or built recreation areas, amount of housing exceeded demand. Accordingly, foul air from cars and factories, and a lack of time. the area lost about 40% of its total housing units, (Brownson et al. 2001) This means that additional decreasing the housing stock from 106,685 units to promotion must be targeted toward groups with only 63,160. Though housing vacancy increased lower incomes. One strategy is to market the slightly, from approximately 7% to 12%, continual loss greenway as an inexpensive recreational tool for of total housing units prevented vacancy rates from adults and children alike. Another is to play up the rising dramatically. Owner and renter occupation assets along the greenway as service centers for status remained relatively constant within the study the population’s needs. Marketing the greenway area in the 30 years between 1970 and 2000. In as a potential transportation method is another way 1970, 59% of occupied housing units were fi lled with to communicate with low-income populations who owners, and thus 41% were fi lled with renters. In might not have access to automobiles. 2000, there was an equal divide between renter and owner occupied housing units. Maintaining a population of children may enhance greenway use. Though they are not typical greenway The greenway study area is facing many of the users, programming can encourage children to same social and demographic problems as the city spend their free time participating in activities on the as a whole. Decreasing population and increasing greenway. In 2000, approximately 20% of persons poverty have riddled the area for 30 years, but in the study area were between the ages of fi ve and this data shows signs of improvements. Almost 15. Busy mothers who head their households may all categories show a slight improvement in social be able to use the greenway as an outlet for their statistics between 1990 and 2000. The proportion of children. It can provide a safe place for kids to play, impoverished people decreased by 6%, the average and an outdoor laboratory for after school programs income increased by 3% relative to the city, 2% more to engage and entertain children. residents remained in their homes for fi ve years, and home-ownership increased by 2%. Though modest, The declining housing stock also decreases the these changes indicate improvement in Detroit’s concentration of potential users surrounding the eastside. greenway. As dangerous, unsightly structures are being demolished, it may improve the perception of Demographic changes on Detroit’s eastside have safety while traveling to the greenway and prevent a number of implications for the future of the crime. Thus, if the population continues to decrease Connner Creek Greenway. Research on greenway it may be better for the greenway to have vacant use indicates that frequent users are generally 20 open space than dilapidated buildings within the to 40 years old, well-educated, and have incomes neighborhood. Vacant land also leaves spaces of over $50,000 per year (Lindsey 1999). Changes opportunity for greenway expansion and increasing in the Eastside’s population will be a challenge for nodes of activity. promoting use of the greenway. If the positive changes on the eastside continue in Population stability may improve use of the greenway the coming decades, surrounding communities may because long-term residents tend to become more foster a deeper appreciation of the value added to invested in their communities and take advantage of the community by the greenway. The greenway may community assets linked by the greenway. Long- become an agent of positive change. At this stage, term residents can also share their experiences however, embracing the demographic challenges and enjoyment of the greenway with newcomers. will require unique targeted marketing strategies In this sense, stability and the existence of long- designed to engage typical non-users. term residents can serve as a means of greenway promotion.

16 CURRENT DEMOGRAPHICS

Income and race data from the U.S. Census Bureau in 2000 are important as they refl ect a large and disadvantaged population in our study area. Figure 6, illustrates the median household income where the northern areas (illustrated in darkest green) have higher median household incomes and lower incomes are clustered in the center (illustrated in light green). It is important to note, however, that areas with the highest median income do not earn more than approximately $53,000 per year. Though the entire study area is dominated by African American populations, the southern portion of the map, fi gure 7, has the highest concentration (as illustrated by the darker purple).

Figure 8 illustrates that children fi ve to 17 tend to live in the northern portion (shown by the dark red). Figure 9 illustrates that seniors 65 and over are primarily located in the dark purple southwestern area.

Figure 7: Percentage of Black Residents

Figure 6: Median Household Income Figure 8: Percentage of Children Age 5-17

17 Conner Creek Greenway Plan

area has unique assets which will connect people to destinations including churches, schools, parks, and markets. See Appendix C for a complete list of assets near the greenway.

Community Asset Identifi cation Assets were documented within the study area. To assemble this community asset inventory, the project team conducted numerous site visits and windshield surveys and consulted local telephone books and web pages. Additionally, the team spoke with persons residing in the community and took photographs to identify probable user destinations. As a result of the team’s multi-pronged approach, an extensive asset inventory list was developed. To further ensure the accuracy of the list, the team contacted the asset locations by telephone to verify their existence. Mapping the community assets with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in the project area allowed for an analysis of proximity of assets to the Greenway.

Proximity to destinations is key in determining whether a potential user will utilize the walkway:

“Increasing awareness and use of environmental Figure 9: Percentage of Persons Age 65 and Over supports already available in neighborhoods COMMUNITY ASSETS NARRATIVE may be cost-effective for increasing physical “By reconnecting people, the process of trail building activity and walking. Interventions to increase also becomes a process of community building.” environmental supports for physical activity (Rails to Trails Conservancy 2006, 3). should target proximal locations---such as private recreational facilities, parks, playgrounds and Introduction sport fi elds—as well as adequate lightening and The National Association of County and City Health the presence of convenient, nearby opportunities Offi cials defi nes community assets as, “contributions for physical activity” (Addy et al. 2004, 3). made by individuals, citizen associations, and local institutions that individually and/or collectively build From the entire list of assets, we selected a sub- the community’s capacity to assure the health, set that may become important nodes and connect well-being, and quality of life for the community to existing social networks. These sub-sets of and all its members” (National Association of City assets include: Churches, Schools, Libraries, and County Health Offi cials). The Detroit Eastside Parks/Playfi elds, Markets/Party Stores, Recreation Community Collaborative Greenway Initiative has Centers, and Shopping. many community assets including human service Proximity to Destinations organizations, commercial, institutional, businesses, parks, and recreation Centers. Overall, the assets were relatively evenly distributed throughout the project area. Community assets may provide three features for Churches the Greenway: 1) a network of potential users, 2) There are 58 churches within the study area. Three collaborators for designing and hosting programs, 3) churches (Bara International Miracle, Immanuel a cultural context in which to defi ne and shape the Lutheran, and East Lake Missionary Baptist) were unique character of this Greenway. The Greenway chosen based on communnity feedback and have

18 signifi cant programming for residents. Community feedback suggested selecting at least one church from each section (South, Central, and North) of the Greenway that was within a one half mile buffer. Schools Schools are valuable assets that will not only attract users but will also be key in programming. There are approximately 20 schools within one half mile of the Greenway, but there are many other educational institutions within the study area including Wayne County Community College. Approximately 34 educational institutions within the study area that offer after-school programs, such as tutorial, art and crafts. (See Appendix: D Schools Offering After- School Programs).

There are seven public educational institutions within one half mile of the Greenway that may be ideal for programming:

• Foch Middle School • Duke Ellington Conservatory of Music • Chandler Park Academy • Osbourne High School • Wayne County Community College Figure 10: Churches within Study Area • Eastside Early Childhood Center • Southeastern High School

Libraries Libraries in the study area are valuable assets that can assist with programming and provide a destination for potential Greenway users. There are three public libraries in the study area including Chandler Park, Jefferson and Monteith Libraries.

Parks/Playfi elds Parks/Playfi elds are community assets that have the greatest potential for attracting users. These assets already exist and have physical and recreational facilities.

Shopping As in many Detroit neighborhoods, our communities have few markets or grocery stores and existing stores are not evenly distributed throughout the study area. For example, the Warren Conner Shopping Plaza is in the central section near the Greenway and it does not have a food market. However, Joe Randazzo’s fruit/vegetable market is located in the northern end of the study area. A number of party stores are located within walking distance to the Greenway, but the availability of affordable, good Figure 11: Educational Resources within Study Area

19 Conner Creek Greenway Plan quality food at these locations is questionable. environmental education. These “opportunities include both individual experiences and group Key Assets - Common Areas involvement such as classes in the public school Key assets help shape the area’s identity and system and organizations providing opportunities to serve as destination points for the Greenway. incorporate as many people as possible,” (Bailey et The Community Assets are the connectors of the al. 2005, 3). neighborhoods, districts and corridors within the area. The destinations points will be key in determining Summary loops to connect the user to different sections of the Overall the Conner Creek Greenway has many Greenway and to different destination points. Figure key assets that will be signifi cant nodes for activity. 12 displays key assets that are likely to be used as Community assets as destinations will do the following Nodes or ‘Common Areas’ in the greenway: for the users and Conner Creek Greenway:

The corridors within the Conner Creek Greenway can • Connect people to neighborhoods, districts, connect users to open space in city neighborhoods, corridors provide secure places for residents and create • Establish anchors within the project area alternative transportation networks. • Provide a network to potential users for the greenway Common areas are destinations along the Greenway • Provide opportunities for physical recreation which we refer to as nodes. (The nodes along the and activities Greenway will be discussed later in the report.) The • Provide a cultural context defi ning and shaping nodes should provide signage that recognize the the unique character of the greenway Greenway and demark these common areas. The • Suggest locations for loops to connect city, signage will assist the user in locating these assets regional and state greenways that are common areas for programming, social • Possibly increase social capital within the interactions, physical activities and recreation. greenway neighiborhoods

Community assets could provide several expected PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION ON THE EASTSIDE and unexpected benefi ts for the community, such OF DETROIT as strengthening the sense of neighborhood spirit within the project area. These community assets will Public transportation is especially important for users help defi ne neighborhoods and add character and who do not currently own an automobile or do not language to induce a sense of community pride. have access to one. The involvement of the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) can contribute Assets can also provide opportunities for to more walkable and healthy living environments.

Unfortunately, Detroit is ranked last in reliable public transportation among the nation’s largest cities (Colden 2000). This is primarily due to local government’s decisions to cut bus lines and eliminate jobs. The recent change to Detroit’s public transportation system presents a challenge to encouraging distant residents to use the greenway. Therefore, public transportation may severely limit opportunities for users. Figure 12: Key Nodes and Common Areas

20 The majority of Detroit’s Department of Transportation bus lines run along the major streets such as Conner Street, Gratiot Avenue, and Jefferson Avenue in our study area (see Figure 13). Using data from the City of Detroit’s Planning & Development Department, we created a graduated color GIS map to analyze ridership of the bus lines for the whole city. According to a representative from the home offi ce of DDOT, bus line ridership is categorized in three groups, high, medium and low. The representative from the offi ce has extensive knowledge of each of the bus lines and defi ned these categories based on working experience at DDOT. Therefore, these categories are not quantifi able. Lastly, bus lines selected for this analysis only included those which run through our study area. It is important to note that ridership alone does not measure quality public transportation services.

Our fi ndings indicate that the majority of bus lines have high ridership throughout our study area, but many are concentrated in the southwestern side (illustrated in dark blue see Figure 14 and Figure 15). Our proposed greenway has a long segment which Figure 14: Detroit Bus System Ridership runs down Conner Street. DDOT bus lines on the southern end may easily connect to Conner Street, however, the northeastern portion is less accessible. Transit-dependent users in this quadrant will not benefi t from the greenway if they cannot access it. In addition, the majority of youth between the ages of fi ve through 17 are located in the northeastern area and they are potential users we wish to attract (see Figure 8: Percentage of Children Age 5- 17). Transportation accessibility is a challenge for youth, in particular, those seeking green spaces and recreational activity. Most importantly, medical journals note that youth, seniors, and minorities are sub-groups who are more at risk of obesity (Goran 2001; Geffken 2001; Sallis 2000). Therefore an increase in bus service will be needed to provide youth living farther from the greenway with better access.

In contrast to this challenge in the northeast, adults 65 and over (primarily located on the south-west area) should not have a problem accessing the greenway via public transportation. Promoting and programming the greenway targeted for seniors on Figure 13: Detroit Bus Lines in Study Area the lower southwest-end will help improve health of

21 Conner Creek Greenway Plan this population.

It is also important to note that compared to the rest of the city bus lines, the Conner Bus Line number 13 has the greatest number of stops (Refer to Appendix E). The large number of bus stops offers users the most opportunities to access the greenway from Conner Street. Programming and design locations should consider the bus stops as they are major sites where transit riders enter and exit the greenway.

Ridership Low: Line 8: Caniff Line 9: Chalmers Line 12: Conant Line 20: Grand Belt Line 24: Holbrook Line 38: Plymouth Line 49: Vernor Line 76: Hayes Limited Medium: Line 7: Cadillac-Harper Line 11: Clairmount Line 13: Conner Line 40: Russel High: Line 10: Chene Line 14: Crosstown Line 17: Eight Mile Line 25: Jefferson Line 31: Mack Line 32: Mc Nichols Line 34: Gratiot Line 45: Seven Mile Line 48: VanDyke-LaFayette

Figure 15: Detroit Bus Ridership Chart

22 COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

Figure 16: Planting Buffer for Cyclists on the Greenway

23 Conner Creek Greenway Plan

For the Greenway to be a valuable asset to the In addition to desired activities, community members community, eastside residents’ concerns must be felt that programming would encourage people to be known and addressed. With this in mind, we sought active on the greenway. Suggesting the possibility to involve the community in the planning process. for an agglomeration effect on the greenway, one We received their input by reviewing the Healthy resident commented, “If I saw more people walking Environments Partnership’s focus group study, I would be more involved.” Community members meeting with community leaders of the Detroit suggested areas designated for licensed vendors Eastside Community Collabortive and participating and businesses or entertainment venues. Finally, in the City of Detroit Planning and Development they recommended charitable events like AIDS Department’s Greenway Charrette. The information walks or marathons, along with entertainment such and insight we gained from the community became as music and dancing. These activities would the basis for our recomendations, which we believe provide a fun, entertaining and attractive space for will help the Conner Creek Greenway be a successful people of all ages. project. Safety Concerns FOCUS GROUP SUMMARY Users must feel safe and secure to use the greenway In January and February 2006 the Healthy at all times of the day. Community members have a Environments Partnership (within the University number of safety concerns that will affect use of the of Michigan’s School of Public Health) conducted greenway. As one explains, “I think security has a lot a series of eight focus groups in three Detroit to do with our physical activity in the neighborhood.” communities. The focus groups aimed to better Stray dogs, in particular, were a major safety concern. understand how the built environment affects Keeping dogs on leashes was suggested. Another physical activity, what foods are eaten by community concern was residents’ inability to rely on police for members, and other factors associated with heart safety because law enforcement is perceived to disease. Particularly helpful for planning the Conner be slow responders or simply unavailable. Some Creek Greenway, the participants were asked to suggestions were to have police on bikes, organize describe their thoughts on new paved trails being a citizen patrol, and install emergency phones. constructed in several Detroit communities. These Traffi c also concerned community members. They focus groups describe a number of foundational expressed concerns over, “cars drive up and down activities currently engaging residents that can be the streets real fast…especially in the summer.” developed further to encourage use of the greenway. Slowing down traffi c through the use of decorative They also provide a glimpse of community members’ asphalt, pavement stamping, and signage would thoughts toward the use of the greenway, how to help address this issue. They also suggested having bring people together, accessibility, equipment and a bike path separate from the walking path in order facilities, maintenance, safety, programming, and to avoid collisions with other users. Finally, they desired activities. suggested having open spaces thereby creating natural surveillance. Desired Activities Walking is the most popular physical activity for Maintenance community members. Many enjoy walking with Proper maintenance can increase perceptions of children to school, walking for shopping trips, as safety. Focus group participants expressed concerns well as dog-walking. Home-maintenance chores over deteriorated sidewalks, a buildup of trash also get community members moving outdoors. along the greenway, and animal droppings. They Whether shoveling snow, trimming shrubs, cutting also felt that sitting areas, benches, and pleasant grass or raking leaves, Detroit’s seasonal weather fl owers should be maintained regularly to encourage keeps residents active. Home-care extends beyond greenway use. individual property lines. Referring to seasonal maintenance, one community member explained Equipment and facilities that, “there are lots of seniors-we help neighbors that Some of the concerns which came out of the focus are closed in.” group discussions were the lack of recreational equipment such as monkey bars, swing sets, Programming basketball courts, and teeter totters. Installing

24 equipment in green spaces along the greenway maintenance would be costly and time consuming. would provide youth a reason to use the greenway. Their fi nal goal concerned programming of the In addition, the availability of restroom facilities was a greenway. They worried that greenway use would concern. Since community assets are a central part be minimal without targeted programming efforts. of this project, sharing facilities such as restrooms One suggestion was to link greenway activities to would be feasible. existing programs from community institutions. They also hoped that the greenway would enable cultural Accessible and historical preservation through signage. Community members stressed that the Greenway should be easy to get to and be connected to other CITYWIDE GREENWAY CHARRETTE areas of the city. This can be further developed in In addition, we participated in the recent Citywide the next phases of the greenway. At this point public Greenway Charrette hosted by the Planning & transportation is a good means of connecting people Development Department. The charrette was held to community assets and other parts of the city. on March 28th and was attended by stakeholders, community members, and city planners. All charrette Place to bring people together participants were divided into sub-groups by area Participants felt that the Conner Creek Greenway and we served as table note-takers for participants has the potential to improve more than the physical interested in Eastside issues. The charrette aimed to appearance of their community. Imagining the get commnuity feedback regarding the location and possibilities of a greenway, one resident said, “We process of greenway implementation. Collectively, have more segregation and polarization…this will we have summarized our charrette discussions bring more people together. That’s powerful.” into the following content categories: greenway management, connectivity, destinations, food, and DECC LEADERSHIP city maintenance. In January and February, several meetings with community leaders such as Patricia Bosch, Executive Greenway Management Director at Nortown Community Development One charrette table was concerned with larger Corporation and John Ballard, Executive Director at organizational issues. Composed primarily of social St. Ignatius Nonprofi t Housing Corporation provided and environmental community leaders, this table insight into the community’s greenway goals. In feared that the current plan for greenway development addition, both Patricia and John are members of the throughout the city would not produce the most DECC Board of Directors. At the meeting, connectivity effi cient outcome. They saw individual community was the fi rst major concern they expressed. They felt organizations vying for limited resources rather it was essential to connect existing nodes of activity than collaborating for effi ciency. They proposed such as major parks and shopping centers. an overarching body to organize funding and share planning efforts with local community groups. Their second goal was to overcome current Community organizations might design routes and psychological and physical barriers to Greenway programming for greenways in their service areas, access. One of the most urgent psychological barriers while the organizing body would acquire funding is safety. For instance, they hoped the Conner Creek and handle maintenance for the entire greenway Greenway plan would address appropriate lighting system. This body would also take advantage of to enhance perceptions of safety. Also, dangerous economies of scale by handling maintenance and street crossings pose a physical barrier to access construction of the greenway. the greenway. Connectivity Their third goal was to obtain greenway maintenance This table was comprised of representatives from strategies. Seeing an unkempt space is another each area of the Conner Creek Greenway (South, psychological barrier to greenway use, the DECC Central and North). All three participants were representatives were concerned with the ways interested in making sure that each of their areas the path would stay clean, well-lit, and beautifully was connected to the Greenway in the following landscaped in the future. Because the greenway ways: 1) connection to the river, 2) connection to will be privately run by DECC, they feared that historical assets in the community and 3) connection

25 Conner Creek Greenway Plan to Southeastern Michigan. Finally, the participants community space. Creating a beautiful, natural suggested the creation of greenway loops. environment was considered to be an important factor for the success of the greenway, according to Destinations many of the tables. Suggestions for the greenway Some main concerns were that the Greenway area included surrounding users with attractive plantings is unsafe and unattractive. One individual noted how in the middle of the urban environment. dirty the neighborhood was and that she currently avoided the area due to personal safety concerns. There was a consensus that the area had a lack of quality destinations to attract people. One resident mentioned how she currently rides her bike to places such as Royal Oak because of the shopping and cultural attractions there. She would be inclined to use the Conner Creek Greenway more often if these destinations were available.

Food Food was the focus of one table of participants at the charrette. Several members hoped that community gardens could occur along the greenway, connecting physical activity and healthy eating together. Others believed that opportunities to purchase locally grown fresh food was lacking and needed in this area. An older gentleman hoped for an ice cream store that could become the focus of his bicycle trips with his grandson.

City Maintenance One table was primarily concerned with cleanliness, or lack thereof. The most frequently made point questioned the ability of Detroit to “green” a place before they bothered to clean the space. Specifi c areas of concern were mentioned as well as general anxiety over brownfi eld sites and illegal dumping sites. Residents wondered how the City’s administration could think that it would be benefi cial to provide green recreational space when they were not providing basic needs to a population whose fi rst concern was not leisure space. Additionally, this table felt that the City was selling prime riverfront property to private developers. Their perception was that Detroit is in such dire need of funds, the City is willing to give up a major asset because the land around the river was already cleaned-up, and developers did not want to clean brownfi eld sites within the interior of the City. The representatives in this discussion felt strongly that the riverfront should be a public space, similar to Chicago, and that Detroit has no right to sell that land.

In addition to a well-maintained greenway charrette participants desired an aesthetically pleasing

26 GREENWAY PRECEDENTS

Figure 17: Battle Creek Linear Park Mural Wall

27 Conner Creek Greenway Plan

Urban greenways are emerging forms of public space crossings for the Conner Creek Greenway. that can provide a variety of exciting opportunities for communities. The Urban Greenways table details Protecting Environmental Assets examples of greenways and trails throughout the A second important theme to consider when creating United States and Canada (Appendix H) that serve a greenway is protecting the environmental assets as precedents for the development and programming of the surrounding area. Vancouver has integrated of the Conner Creek Greenway. Four categories this goal into their Greenway Plan through of concepts are discussed: safe road crossings; environmentally sustainable projects, called protecting environmental assets; connecting to larger Greenway Initiatives. This adds an additional benefi t greenway systems; and design details. to the previously mentioned bulb-outs, making them environmentally friendly. They are infi ltration Safe Road Crossings bulges in Vancouver, that help reduce the amount Creating safe roadway crossings and fi nding ways of stormwater fl owing into the sewers during storms. to calm traffi c are important parts of making an As the City explains, this concept urban greenway functional. In Florida, the Fred “allows storm water from the street to be Marquis Pinellas Trail provides a great example of a channeled into the planted areas behind curbs. successful urban trail, as this trail crosses 88 streets! Here the water is able to gradually infi ltrate This is safely achieved with well marked street into the ground. Only when the storm is too crossings, including pavement marking, signage, severe and the ground can no longer absorb it and pedestrian bridges. will the excess water drain into the sewer. This helps reduce and slow the fl ow of water that would have otherwise quickly passed through the sewers and possibly into adjacent creeks. Reducing the rush of water and sediment from entering steams helps to support fi sh habitat by more closely mimicking natural processes” (City of Vancouver 2006).

Figure 18: Crossing Diffi cult Intersections Along the Fred Pinellas Marquis Trail, Florida Another model city for traffi c calming in an urban environment is Vancouver, Canada. This city is using the familiar traffi c calming strategy of bulb-outs, or curb extensions. Bulb-outs serve the purpose of Figure 19: A Bulb-out in Vancouver, Canada slowing traffi c, creating a safer pedestrian crossing, and provide better visibility for both drivers and pedestrians. Another interesting greenway example is from the city of Tsukuba, Japan. This extensive greenway The Conner Creek Greenway will cross many streets, system links numerous destinations, such as parks, some of which are busy four lane roads. The use of offi ce complexes, and residential and commercial a pedestrian bridge might be used at the northern areas. These urban trails are very well-used by end, to cross Eight Mile Road, when Conner Creek walkers, runners, and cyclists. Interestingly, large links into the regional greenway system, but this will trees remain standing in the middle of these heavily not be necessary at other street crossings. Painted used trails, forcing users to deviate in their paths. crosswalks, consistent signage, and the use of The respect for nature when creating the Tsukuba traffi c calming techniques will create safe roadway greenways is obvious. In the United States these

28 trees would most certainly be cut down for the creation corridor. of the trail, but in Tsukuba, trees are recognized as an asset to be preserved (Searns 2001). Further north, Calgary, Alberta’s Pathways provide The slogan for the Conner Creek Greenway, “Take Canadians with 635 km of pathways and 260 km of on-street bikeways. This massive system has earned the honor of being the most extensive urban pathway and bikeway network in North America. It is vitally important for the Conner Creek Greenway to link into such a system, and Detroit and Southeast Michigan are taking a step in the right direction through their greenway initiative.

Unique Qualities of Greenways The distinctive details of a greenway help create a sense of ownership among its users and make a public space unique and memorable. One example, the Hudson River Park, is very well designated by its distinctive signs and banners. The prominent display Figure 20: Greenway in Tsukuba, Japan of the park’s logo and name ensures that people are aware that they are in the Hudson River Park. The Me to the River,” presents a natural opportunity to Greenway also features distinct art deco style light promote water conservation. Although trees might fi xtures along its path and metal signage inlaid the not be left in the center of the greenway, the example surface. from Japan can serve as a reminder to preserve The Battle Creek Linear Park in western Michigan and respect as much of the surrounding natural environment as possible. The examples from Vancouver could certainly be adapted to Conner Creek to minimize stormwater run-off, especially the infi ltration bulges. Additionally, signs or pamphlets available along the greenway, particularly in Maheras- Gentry Park, could highlight the importance of protecting environmental assets and the importance of individual conservation behavior.

Connecting to a Larger Greenway System Connecting a single greenway into a larger greenway system multiples the benefi t of a single greenway to a region, creating more opportunities to use Figure 21: Art Deco Light Fixtures in Hudson River the greenway for commuting, providing additional Park, New York City recreational possibilities, and protecting future greenway corridor environments. One example of is a paved trail covering more than 17 miles. One this is Hudson River Park. This section of the New attractive feature of this trail is the educational York Greenway system runs throughout the city, and signage. These signs indicate historical and cultural features a dedicated bicycle route and a waterfront points-of-interest. The signs are supported on posts pedestrian esplanade between Battery Park and 59th created from recycled milk jugs collected by local Street. Since 1995, the City of New York has been a school children. partner in a state-wide initiative to create the Hudson River Valley Greenway, which will stretch 150 miles The Tsukuba greenways have a few interesting from Battery Park in Manhattan to Troy, New York. characteristics which could inspire the design of the When complete, the Greenway will be a continuous Conner Creek Greenway. The fi rst attractive feature pedestrian and bicycle route connecting parks and is the detailing of the urban trails. As Robert Searns open space throughout the historic Hudson River describes, “Surfaces ranged from inlaid stone to

29 Conner Creek Greenway Plan

Figure 22: Signage Embedded in Trail Surface of Hud- son River Park, New York City crushed gravel to asphalt that was painted a warm color. In many places, fi nely cut stone curbing was carefully laid to defi ne the trail edges. In places I saw all kinds of natural security fencing created using vines attached to a post and wire framework—a far better look than chain link” (Searns 2001).

Tsukuba also has a unique system of rentals. If one wishes to rent a bike for use on the greenways, they are available at a number of automated city- run stands. The renter drops a 100 Yen coin ($1) in to free the bike, and when the bike is returned, the renter receives their coin back. If the renter leaves the bike at the side of the path, rather than taking the time to return it, a capitalizing child will bring the bike back to a stand to get the coin. As Searns points out, the success of the system is likely at least partly due to the ethical values of the Japanese culture (Searns 2001).

30 ROUTE

Figure 23: Proposed and Constructed Conner Creek Greenway Route

31 Conner Creek Greenway Plan

The route of the Conner Creek Greenway will River, Possible connection to future expansion of infl uence the success of the project. The Greenway Waterfront Trail. should provide not only a dedicated space for active Diffi cult Crossings: None and passive recreation, but a resource that provides personal safety and access to a wide array of The Greenway begins at the southern end at Maheras- destinations. Our route focuses on Conner because Gentry Park along the Detroit River. Moving north of is concentration of destinations. While the existing from the park the Greenway begins on Clairpointe, path on St.Jean offers connections to other areas, it the eastern side of which currently has a wide lacks viable destinations that will attract users. The sidewalk and grass, separated from the residential greater variety of possible uses for the Greenway neighborhood by an iron fence. Clairpointe could be will result in a greater variety of users. With this in narrowed to provide a wider sidewalk for the users mind, the proposed route is broken down into the entering and exiting Maheras-Gentry Park. following sections: Past Freud St., the established sidewalk and green Maheras-Gentry Park to Jefferson Avenue– space on the eastern side of Clairpointe diminishes, Detroit Riverfront Connection but there still exists enough land to expand on the Jefferson Avenue to Mack Avenue – Industrial eastern side all the way to Jefferson Avenue. Park Mack Avenue to Gratiot Avenue - Chandler Park Jefferson Avenue to Mack Avenue Gratiot Avenue to Seven Mile Road - Airport Length: 1 Mile District Character: Dominated by the Chrysler-Daimler plant Seven Mile Road to Eight Mile Road- Suburban on the west side of Conner. East side features some Greenways Connection commercial and institutional uses. There is very little on-the-street activity in this section. Important Destinations: Child care center, churches, Maheras-Gentry Park to Jefferson Avenue union halls Length: 0.9 Miles Diffi cult Crossings: Connections across Conner. Character: Residential area near Mahreas-Gentry Before crossing Conner at Shoemaker, there should Park also marked by the wastewater treatment be ample opportunities to access the west side of plant on Clairpointe and a shopping center at the the street both to reach destinations and connect to southwest corner of Conner and Jefferson. the trail on St. Jean. Important Destinations: Maheras-Gentry Park, Detroit

Figure 24: Available Land on the Eastern Side of Figure 25: Sidewalk and Lot on Eastern Side of Conner Clairpointe Approaching Jefferson. Between Jefferson and Mack.

32 This stretch of Conner is a dominated by the Daimler- in order to reach the bridge which will cross I-94. Chrysler plant on the western side of the street. From Shoemaker south, the Greenway will be on Staying on the eastern side, which features a large the East side, to minimize intersections. Daimler-Chrysler parking lot and large stretches of Harper Avenue: The Greenway will have to cross empty land, will allow for a continuous path from the Harper Avenue just north of passing the freeway. South. There is considerable greater potential for Harper carries a great deal of traffi c due to the expansion of the greenway on the eastern side. proximity to the freeway.

Mack Avenue to Gratiot Avenue The Mack to Gratiot corridor is one of the most Length: 2.2 Miles important stretches of the Conner Creek Greenway, Character: Busiest section of Greenway with heavy as it encompasses two of the neighborhood’s key traffi c on Conner, especially near the I-94 entrance, destinations, Chandler Park and Wayne County also has concentrated commercial activity at the Community College, and one the biggest obstacles, intersections of Conner and Warren and Conner and the I-94 freeway. This stretch is also home to the Gratiot. most intense commercial activity of the Greenway, clustered around Warren Avenue. Safe crossings are vital at this point in the Greenway, as some users may wish to access the commercial centers on the West side of Conner. The traffi c is heavy at this point of Conner and the current crossings are unsafe and poorly marked. A median and brightly colored crosswalk should be installed at Warren to allow safe and easy access to both sides of Conner. Continuing past Warren, the next major feature is

Figure 26: Looking East Across Conner at Warren

Figure 28: Present Condition of Bridge Crossing I-94.

Chandler Park, already an important destination with facilities ranging from a water park to a golf course. Usership should increase to greater levels when the planned Kroc Recreation Center is built here. Figure 27: Clearly Marked Crosswalks and Curb-cuts In order to avoid the potentially dangerous areas of Encourage Users to Cross Large Intersections at Traffi c Lights to Promote Pedestrian Safety the freeway on- and off-ramps, the Conner Creek Greenway should utilize the unused railroad bridge Important Destinations: Chandler Park, Wayne two blocks West of Conner. To reach the bridge, the Community College, Greenway should cross Conner at Shoemaker and Diffi cult Crossings: Shoemaker Street: The enter into the property of Wayne County Community Greenway needs to cross Conner at Shoemaker St College. This gives Greenway users direct access

33 Conner Creek Greenway Plan to the Community College and also to the bridge via the College’s parking lot, located behind the building. North of Seven Mile, there is a potential to link the Continuing over the bridge and North through the Greenway with the nearby Lipke Park. By turning west parking lot to Harper and turning east, the Greenway off of Outer Dr and traveling through the parking lot of users will next come to Conner Playfi eld and Joe Randazzo’s Fruit Market, Greenway users could the already existing stretch of the Conner Creek travel directly to this sizable and well-maintained Greenway. neighborhood park. Randazzo’s is a popular market and is a strong asset of the Greenway route. Using a Gratiot Avenue to Seven Mile Road stretch of the parking lot should be explored to link the Length: 2.3 Miles park and Greenway. Connecting to Lipke Park could Character: City Airport and Mt Olivet Cemetery also help attract additional Greenway users from comprise the western side of Conner. While there the park’s surrounding neighborhood. Randazzo’s is is a large residential neighborhood across Conner, on the western side of the street, but the Greenway there is limited commercial activity in this stretch. should cross here to the eastern side in order to Important Destinations: avoid the many driveways and intersections on the Diffi cult Crossings: None western side and to be in better position to follow Conner where it splits off from Outer Drive. There is This stretch is entirely made up of the Detroit City already an existing sidewalk and large landscaped Airport and the Mt. Olivet Cemetery on the Western buffer on the eastern side, which would be ideal for side. At McNichols Road, Conner becomes Outer Greenway improvements. Drive; the two split off from one another just north of Seven Mile. Construction has already begun on As Outer Drive curves westward, Conner St breaks the Greenway along the Airport, and is scheduled to off to continue north towards Eight Mile. The begin along the Cemetery. These features allow for Greenway should follow Conner on the eastern side great connectivity of the Greenway, as there are no of the street along the Chrysler facility. Where the streets that intersect with the western side of Conner Millbank Greenway piece comes in from the West, or Outer Drive in this stretch. the Conner Creek Greenway should leave the street and, following the existing desire line, enter the back Seven Mile Road to Eight Mile Road of the parking lot of the Big Lots and Rainbow Apparel Length: 1.3 Miles shopping center. This parking lot is oversized and Character: On this most heavily residential section, underused; it offers the Greenway a direct path to the Greenway follows both the wide, busy Outer Eight Mile already paved and lit. Drive and the smaller extension of Conner, where it meets up with another major thoroughfare, Eight Mile Road. Important Destinations: Eight Mile and connection to suburban Greenways Diffi cult Crossings: Outer Drive: Crossing Outer Dr will present a challenge as there are no existing traffi c lights between Seven Mile and Conner St. In these conditions crossing at Seven Mile would be preferable, but this intersection requires improvements as well. Traffi c calming is necessary to provide safe crossings for pedestrians, cyclists and other Greenway users. Narrowing Conner, adding a median and marking crosswalks better should all be explored for this intersection.

The Conner Creek Greenway’s connection to Eight Figure 29: Crossing Conner at Corbett Street to Connect Mile is important because of the goal to link this Residential Neighborhoods to Greenway Could Be Greenway with other in Macomb County and across Accompanied by Corner Lot Improvements. Southeast Michigan.

34 Residential Connections plant, which is the dominant feature between Conner At some locations along the Greenway it will be and St. Jean from Jefferson to Mack. Planning for optimal to have dedicated crossings of Conner to link improvements to sidewalks on Jefferson and Warren residential neighborhoods to the Greenway, even if would be ideal, as they connect the edges of the there are few or no other destinations. Linking the St. Jean path and offer direct connections to points residential neighborhood that is west of St. Jean on the Greenway which lead to major recreation will require crossing Conner at Jefferson. The destinations: Maheras-Gentry Park from Jefferson neighborhood that lies across Conner from Conner and Chandler Park from Warren. This would help Playfi eld should be linked to the Greenway near connect the neighborhood West of St. Jean to these Corbett Street. Where these connections occur, assets East of Conner. there is a distinct opportunity to use the Greenway to help improve corners that are marked by blight Diffi cult Street Crossings through landscaping and signage. Many greenways offer uninterrupted routes that follow natural features such as a river. As a distinctly Connection to St. Jean Greenway urban Greenway, the Conner Creek Greenway has Jefferson, Mack, and Conner are possible connections a greater variety of destinations to offer but also has to St. Jean St, where there already exists a large more obstacles in the form of intersections and traffi c. berm and sidewalk that makes a natural addition Following the path of the now buried Conner Creek to the Conner Creek Greenway. Including the St. and its namesake street, the Greenway must deal Jean portion would help to attract users from the with many of the obstacles. Minimizing the number large residential neighborhood to the West of St. of times that the Greenway crosses sides of Conner Jean. There are signifi cantly fewer destinations on will help establish continuity, increase the users’ St. Jean, meaning that Conner should be the focus sense of safety and create a cohesive, singular of the Greenway. The existing sidewalk runs on St. identity for the entire route of the Greenway. Jean from Jefferson Avenue to Warren Avenue. This combined with the Conner Street section and East- Traffi c Calming Techniques West connections could also provide a loop suitable The speed of traveling cars is one of the main for residents and employees of the Daimler Chrysler concerns with these street crossings. Conner’s current unnecessary width encourages motorists to drive faster than is often considered safe for pedestrians or than is allowed by speed limits. Traffi c calming techniques can be used to increase safety and comfort for Greenway users at these intersections. Pedestrians’ ability to cross streets safely increases disproportionally as the speed of cars decreases (Watson et al. 2003).

Narrowing Conner is the most obvious and needed traffi c calming measure for the Greenway. The traffi c counts for Conner clearly Figure 30: Clearly Marked Crosswalks Can Ease East-West Crossings Where No indicate that the fi ve lanes Traffi c Lights Exist of traffi c are not necessary.

35 Conner Creek Greenway Plan Narrowing the street to make additional room for plantings and the path of the Greenway will also help to slow traffi c along Conner. Adding medians to key intersections will also have two-prong effect of reducing speeds by narrowing the street and providing a refuge for crossing pedestrians. Medians would be especially useful at the points when the Greenway crosses East-West over Conner and Outer Drive.

Flat-top speed humps can be used as pedestrian crossings to increase the Figure 31: When no Traffi c Lights Exist, a Raised or Colored Cross- safety of intersections. The humps walk Can Indicate a Pedestrian Right of Way require cars to slow down and the signifi cant effects on their own, but combined with shape and size of the hump make drivers more other techniques will effectively calm traffi c. aware of the potential pedestrians crossing the street. The pedestrians are more visible to drivers Additional traffi c control devices should be used to as well, as they are on a raised surface (Watson support traffi c calming efforts along the Greenway. et al. 2003). Flat-top speed humps could also be a Especially useful would be bright and clear markings unifying feature that connects the Greenway across of crosswalks. Similar to the fl at-top speed humps, the intersections. crosswalks should be designed and marked in a way that signifi es that they are a part of the Conner Creek Texturing or raising pavement at intersections cause Greenway. drivers to slow down and pay increases attention to intersections. These will probably not have

Figure 32: Street Narrowing, Medians, And Clearly Marked Sidewalks Can Slow Traffi c For Pedestrian Safety

36 DESIGN

Figure 33: Native Tree Species Buffer Cyclists And Beautify The Trail

37 Conner Creek Greenway Plan

CRIME PREVENTION THROUGH the path of a public space while helping to deter non- ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN users. Similary, lighting during the night hours will Crime Prevention through Environmental Design distinguish intended places of use from those which (CPTED) is a concept that describes how physical are off-limits. design elements can increase perceptions of safety. These elements include the type and location of Natural territorial reinforcement lighting, planting, and maintenance. CPTED’s This principle suggests that owners with a vested premise is that “proper design and effective use of interest are more likely to challenge intruders or the built environment can lead to a reduction in the report them to the police. Clearly marking boundaries fear of crime and the incidence of crime, and to an with lighting and signage can establish a public realm improvement in the quality of life” (Crowe 1991). This and establish intended uses. When these areas are thinking has evolved over time and were signifi cantly well maintained, frequent users will respect the shaped by the work of Jane Jacobs and Oscar distinction and a sense of ownership will develop as Newman. In her book, The Life and Death of Great they protect the space. When the space is obviously American Cities, Jacobs discusses her theory of being observed and maintained, crime becomes “eyes on the street” in creating safer places (Jacobs less likely and what crime does occur is more likely 1961). Applying this theory to the Conner Creek to be reported. In addition, the community assets in Greenway would mean creating active spaces and the area, such as schools, churches, and recreation thereby using her idea of self-policing cities to deter centers can develop programming along the criminal activity. By placing nodes near existing Greenway to help promote this sense of ownership. community assets greenway users will have a Community gardens and recreational activities, for defi ned place for interaction and nearby workers and instance, may contribute to people caring about the shoppers can oversee the activity. Oscar Newman’s Greenway, which, in turn, would make it a safer and book, Defensible Space, identifi ed the importance more active place. of legible boundaries between public and private spaces. As concerned planners, we hope to improve CPTED guidelines emphasize designing open the perception of safety and maintain an aesthetically spaces through the use of three major principles, pleasant greenway by implementing three major natural surveillance, natural access control and CPTED principles. natural territoriality reinforcement in order to deter potential criminal activity and make visitors feel Natural Surveillance assured about their surroundings. Design elements This limits the opportunity for crime through the use such as lighting, signage and landscaping minimize of strategies such as lighting and visibility, similar to potential risks that may arise on the greenway, Jane Jacob’s “eyes on the street.” Lighting can help carefully selecting appropriate plantings will clearly identify visitors entering the greenway during enhance aesthetics, and create a comfortable space night hours. Additionally, plantings incorporating to use. The suggestions provided in this section are open spaces will help prevent users from being relatively inexpensive. Creating an atmosphere hidden out of view. These open spaces will increase that people percieve as safe and free of crime is visibility outside and inside the space where traffi c, vital for attracting users, especially in urban ares. other pedestrians and other users can ensure Community input confi rmed that safety was a main safety. In Defensible Space, Newman highlights concern for the Conner Creek Greenway. Therefore, a physical design approach to crime prevention, CPTED guidelines were considered for all of the where the placement of benches, signage, lighting, physical elelments discussed in the plan. However, and landscape elements allow for users to see and it is important not to rely on CPTED alone but also be seen. working collaboratively with citizen patrol groups, the police, and local businesses to help create and Natural Access Control maintain a clean and safe Greenway. The opportunity for crime is limited by using natural access guidelines to welcome users and LIGHTING discourage non-intended users. For example, Lighting typically has three purposes: orientation, landscaping, fencing and signage can clearly mark identifi cation, and safety. Orientation focuses

38 on providing the proper intensity of light to reveal and serve as a visual cue regarding the conditions important features of the surrounding area. that lie ahead. Lower mounting heights placed with Identifi cation refers to improving the clarity of critical close spacing distances may create more uniform activity nodes, intersections, and signs. Safety is light and promote greenway users’ sense of safety. fundamentally impacted by lighting by minimizing the opportunity for personal and property damage Safety by either a moving vehicle of another person. Consistent lighting coverage is fundamental for ensuring surveillance. Lighting should allow for Orientation the detection of suspicious movement rather than Through the placement of a hierarchy of lights provide clear details. Highlighting points of entry will laid out in a clear pattern, greenway users will be allow users and nonusers to account for the entry oriented to the path and its direction. A hierarchy and exit potentially suspicious persons (Dines & will separate uses and users along the greenway by Brown 2001, Harris et al. 1998). providing varied fi xtures and light intensities. For example, a jogger will follow smaller path lights and Diagnostic Assessment understand that the greenway is designed for people Before recommending a lighting scheme for the as compared to the road with large overhead light greenway we performed a diagnostic assessment. fi xtures. Three questions guided our suggestions for Conner Creek lighting. Greenway users will need a clear lighting pattern to distinguish the greenway path. Aligned lighting 1. How will outdoor lighting support the overall fi xtures positioned consistently and will guide objectives of the design? greenway users down the proper path. A staggered layout may obscure the direction of circulation and Lighting will improve perceptions of safety and enable location of intersections. residents to use the greenway after dark. Lighting will also defi ne spaces where greenway users belong, Identifi cation create a visual consistency, and enable circulation Identifi cation is pivotal at intersections. Lighting patterns at intersections. Because sustainability should signal the presence, shape and nature of is a pivotal dimension of the greenway project, intersections, crossings, bus stops, and steps. lighting must function with low maintenance and Fixtures should be placed at heights that prevent minimal negative effects on the natural environment. foliage shadows and maintain illumination below Creating a consistent atmosphere with lighting will landscape canopies. Their spacing should provide also encourage greenway use. uniform light, eliminate dark spots in vulnerable areas,

Figure 34: Lights Should Be Placed In A Consistent Pattern That Ensures Coverage As Shown On The Left. The Image On The Right Is Undesirable Due To Dark Spots That Decrease Perceptions Of Safety

39 Conner Creek Greenway Plan

2. What lighting effect best accomplishes the desired function? CPTED Lighting Considerations:

Pathlighting with consistent coverage will improve Glare and underlighting can create hazardous safety standards by allowing users to see what lies conditions for greenway users and cars adjacent before them. They will also complement overhead to the path. Glare becomes an issue when light street lights to form a hierarchy for different users sources can be seen directly. Lights shining of the space i.e. cars, bikes, and pedestrians. into pedestrian’s eyes will diminish their vision Lighting should be low intensity to provide maximum and prevent them from seeing any sources of coverage, and avoid glare and light pollution. To danger. It is important to address the direction create atmosphere accent lights should highlight key light shines onto the greenway to ensure it landscape and signage features. will not obscure pedestrians’ vision. When the pedestrians’ perspective and a sense of 3. Which lighting fi xture will create the desired security are primary concerns, a low mounting effect? height with close spacing is the most effective approach. To create atmosphere through accenting key features we recommend small, durable, and high Underlighting is hazardous if an insuffi cient intensity lights that can be mounted on signage or in amount of light is provided to protect pedestrians the ground to uplight a landscape feature. This will from injury or damage. Suffi cient light is create points of interest along the greenway. It is essential around activity nodes, like parks and important to note the difference between initial and shopping centers. Because overlighting can maintained footcandles. Many products advertise the produce glare, it is important to fi nd a balance initial footcandles of a fi xture that will only last a short using lighting industry standards. time when the system is fi rst installed. After a short period fi xtures settle into their maintained footcandle intensity and this lower level of light extends over the life of the system (Larsen et al. 2000).

To fulfi ll the coverage, minimize light pollution, and promote sustainability goals, we are recommending using a short solar bollard along the greenway. The intensity of light at the source is 18 foot candles which can easily create good coverage and eliminate dark spots when positioned properly. Because they are not connected the power grid, they are environmentally friendly and save up-front underground wiring costs. They are designed for heavy use in public spaces and thus have a reinforced shell with multiple fi nishes to prevent deterioration. The long-lasting lamp and multi-layer exterior allow for approximately fi ve years without maintenance. For outdoor use, no care is required. For scratches and gouges, sanding and repainting with a touch up kit can restore the appearance of a bollard fi xture.

These lamps have solar energy collectors positioned unobtrusively on the fi xture. The light turns off during daytime charge cycle, and requires only three hours Figure 35: Light Fixtures Should Be Installed At Lower of daylight per day to provide light throughout the Heights To Prevent Light From Being Obscured By Land- night. Though they have a higher up-front cost, the scaping initial investment is compensated in the long term

40 through low maintenance, lower installation costs, autumn coloring. This is a way of using the plantings and free power. as a way to draw users to the Greenway and create an experience that users will want to repeat in the Lighting ‘Language’ future. The combination of fl owering plants in the Lighting is assessed using several units of measure. spring and autumn colors stretches the season Lumens refer to the total amount of light energy of use on the Greenway. It is recommended that emitted by a light source without regard to the fl owering trees and shrubs be clustered at visible direction of its distribution. Footcandles (fc) are a entrance points. This can help signify entering the US unit referring to the spatial distribution of light (1 Greenway and create a strong visual identity for the fc = 1 lumen/sq. ft.). Lux (lx) is an internationally space. Trees with spring and autumn color include standard measure of the spatial distribution of light Crimson King Maple and Red Oak. (10.7lx = 1 fc OR 1 lx = 1 lumen/sq. meter). Candelas measure the intensity of light in a specifi c direction. Native Plants One candela directed perpendicular to a surface one Native plants are easier to establish than exotic foot away generates one footcandle of light. These species and they require less water and fertilizer to measures help defi ne the proper amount of light grow as they are adapted to the climate of Michigan. needed for various spaces, activities, and safety These plants can thrive with less input, meaning that standards. Refer to Appendix F for lighting levels maintenance concerns can be reduced. by use recommended by the Illuminating Engineer’s Society of North America. Native plants help the entire ecosystem, as they also assist rainwater to fi lter into the soil. This results in PLANTINGS less runoff and greater groundwater recharge, which One desire among community members for the can help abate water pollution. This process also Conner Creek Greenway is to create a space that makes the soils better able to support a variety of will be an attractive natural environment. The key plantlife in the future. Groundwater fi ltration can factor in creating such a space, in addition to route be further enhanced by establishing rainwater selection, is plantings. Using creative and ecological gardens along the Greenway. These gardens act plantings can transform what otherwise may just be as mini-wetlands, designed to absorb rainwater and a path into a cohesive and well-defi ned experience. snowmelt before they fl ow over impervious surfaces, This can help attract new users and infl uence users such as the Greenway’s path (City of Bloomington to care for and use the Greenway more. There are 2006). three main criteria for determining the preferred plants for the Conner Creek Greenway: Native plants have many advantages over their more common ornamental counterparts that will help • Adaptability to Urban Environment advance the goals of the Conner Creek Greenway. • Desirable Traits Native plants are better at providing habitat for • Native Plants wildlife. Some members of the community have fond memories of childhoods spent in creeks and Adaptability to Urban Environment meadows observing frogs and butterfl ies. Utilizing The Conner Creek Greenway runs through an native plants can help bring back these animals, urbanized area with a variety of land uses including heavy industrial sites. Plants should be chosen for their ability to adapt to this environment. This will CPTED Planting Considerations: increase the likelihood that the majority of the initial plantings will thrive along the Greenway. Some CPTED offers three guidelines for plantings. adaptable trees and shrubs are the River Birch and Shrubs should remain low to maintain greenway the Washington Hawthorne. users’ sightlines. They discourage trees with low-hanging branches as they obstruct people’s Desirable Traits vision. Finally, They advise a mowed buffer along Plants should be chosen with the Greenway users in greenway edges to preserve a barrier between mind. This means giving preference to those species users and nearby persons and animals. which provide amenities such as shade, fl owers, and

41 Conner Creek Greenway Plan creating an environment for kids to play and explore. U.S Department A native planting strategy might supplement school of Transportation’s science activities by providing diverse plant and Manual on Uniform animal habitat. Plants could also be labeled with their Traffi c Control species names along the Greenway or at special Devices before nodes where educational activities would take place. installing signs. This Some native perennials include Black-eyed Susan, manual provides Prarie Conefl ower, Joe-Pye Weed and Smooth or a standardized New England Aster. signage system with appropriate sizes, SIGNAGE colors, and physical Signs provide greenway users with the information relationships for they need to use the facility. Whether translating regulatory signage the rules governing the space, highlighting a natural (Schwartz 1993). or cultural feature, or simply providing directional guidance, signs can make the Conner Creek Educational and Greenway more attractive and easier to use. There Interpretive are fi ve basic categories of signage that can be used Educational and on the greenway (Flink 1993). interpretive signage attempts to teach • Informational/Directional readers about the • Regulatory unique historical, • Educational/Interpretive natural, and cultural • Festival signifi cance of • Warning areas along the greenway. These Informational/Directional signs are important These signs orient a user to their current geographic because they create location, provide an overview of available facilities points of interest and programs, and provide routes to these facilities. along stretches of These signs can be as simple as a mile marker or as the Greenway path. elaborate as a detailed facilities list with maps and The design of the other graphics. They help people identify where they signs could be water currently are, direct them to the places they would related to pay tribute like to go, and re-assure them that they are still to the creek running Figure 36: Example Of Infor- where they are supposed to be. The Conner Creek underground. mational Directional Sign Greenway may require informational/directional Interpretive signs signs around I-94 or areas under construction. should relate to viewers through a story format Informational/directional signs will be useful to that is entertaining, inspiring, and enlightening. indicate unique urban traits like the route alternating Signs should use communication techniques that between sides of the street. This signage along the readers are familiar with, but be able to attract Greenway should also point to community assets broad community support for easier advertisement. such as churches, schools, parks, and commercial Multiple signs should present an overriding theme; centers. signage gives designers an opportunity to promote the greenway’s logo or tag line. Regulatory This type of sign describes the rules that apply to Interpretive signage can also be located adjacent users of the greenway, such as hours of operation, to the greenway. Using Conner Creek as an speed limit, and pedestrian right-of-ways. These identifi er when describing a neighborhood—such as signs should be uniform with a refl ective background “I live in the Nortown section of Conner Creek”— and black lettering. To ensure the legal viability of will help create community cohesion and will regulatory signage, designers should reference the provide residents with a sense of ownership for the 42 is selling us our nostalgia for a livable city that seems to have once existed” (Zipp 2003).

The CVS in Detroit does have small windows, so other storefront windows (operating or vacant) could be considered. In Figure 39, historic photos of the surrounding area are mounted on the outside of a shopping plaza, which serves the added function of enlivening an otherwise bland brick wall. Other display options could include projections or murals on blank walls.

Festival This type of signage provides information and advertisement for programs, events, and greenway Figure 37: Example Of Educational Or Interpretive Sign assets. These can provide information about a Greenway. Additionally, historic photographs can be specifi c event or simply add color, decoration, enlarged and mounted in windows or on buildings or holiday cheer to the space. These signs can along or near the Greenway to enhance the feeling be permanently fi xed onto existing light poles or of neighborhood unity. Photographs from the past temporarily tied to trees in prominent positions, but will honor local history, such as what used to be they should never be nailed into trees. Nails, brackets in the area, including Conner’s Creek, and display and wire can damage or destroy trees. Festival changes in the current urban landscape. signage can celebrate nodes of activity like Lipke Park, Chandler Park, the Warren Conner Shopping One logical spot for such a photographic display is Center, and Maheras Gentry Park, and advertise at the CVS drugstore at Gratiot and Conner. CVS cultural, educational, and natural programs taking has already proven itself dedicated to the Greenway place on the Greenway. Businesses might consider and to the community, by allowing some of their sponsoring the Greenway in return for advertisement land to be used for the Greenway. Also, CVS has on a festival banner. already done similar displays in Washington D.C. As the photograph below shows, CVS has given up valuable advertising space to displaying local historic photos in their large storefront windows. As described in Topic Magazine,

“Looking into these CVS windows, one sees not only into the past, but into the street-scenes, down over the city and, refl ected in the glass of the display cases, traces of oneself and the present urban landscape. The windows offer a small glimmer of connection, a faint, refl ected residue of livability. Suddenly you can fi nd a past for your everyday life here, not just strings of monuments and the busy back and forth of offi cial signifi cance…CVS Figure 38: CVS Historical Photograph Display, Washington D.C.

43 Conner Creek Greenway Plan

Warning aware of the Greenway’s presence. Signs must Signage cautions users about potential hazards, and be produced at varied scales for different users. attempts to prevent accidents. Typical warning signs Motorists traveling at 15 mph require a sign with inform Greenway users of slippery bridges, large eight square feet of surface area. Motorists traveling intersections, or changes in trail surface. Conner at 30 mph require a 40 square foot sign, and those Creek Greenway’s unique urban environment will traveling at 45 mph need a 90 square foot sign. require signs warning bikers and pedestrians to stop Signs oriented to drivers should have letters that are one inch tall per 50 feet of distance from the sign. Pedestrian sign headings need letters that are two inches tall, with an additional inch per extra 25 feet of visibility desired (Watson et al. 2003).

In addition to attracting drivers to the Greenway, good signs have several key characteristics. They Figure 39: Historical Photograph Display On Shopping should strive to simplify a message so that readers Plaza, McKinney, Texas will remember it in their mind’s eye. Signs should identify key decision points; for instance, a sign and look both ways at busy intersections. Likewise, should mark intersections where users must cross striping pavement is helpful in alerting users of an the road to remain on the route. Signs should include oncoming street. Signs might also remind users to key label and symbol information to be helpful to share the space and yield to one another. users. Finally, good signs should be accessible to everyone including people who are short in stature, Good Signage Tips physically disabled, or blind. Because of Detroit’s auto-oriented nature signage should be visible to automobiles driving adjacent to the greenway. These signs provide informative CPTED Signage Considerations: function by delineating routes and creating public awareness of the Greenway. Hamilton Anderson CPTED recommends the use of regulatory sig- is creating the unique signage that will identify the nage to help prevent criminal activity. Signs might Conner Creek Greenway for users, but some of the warn offenders of local Neighborhood Watch new signage should be visible to drivers so they are groups or the consequences of criminal activ- ity. These signs are an economical way to deter criminals and increase perceptions of safety.

SURFACING The surfacing recommendations for the Conner Creek Greenway are based on non-motorized transportation, such as walking, running and biking. The currently constructed portion of the Connor Creek Greenway is black asphalt, and is the material used for surfacing most roads.

Surfacing issues to consider include maintenance, drainage, and the ability to add decoration or directional marking to the surface. As with all physical elements, maintenance of the trail surface will be required. Appropriate drainage structures must be in place to deal with heavy rain events. Access Figure 40: Example of Festival Sign, Washington, DC must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

44 ADA states that: “An accessible trail is a trail that is accessible to and usable by people with disabilities and meets the minimum guidelines established by the U. S. Access Board. Access routes are stable, fi rm and slip resistant…examples of accessible trail criteria include: surface, maximum running and cross slopes, tread width, passing space, resting intervals, and edge protection” (Americans with Disabilities Act, Accessibility Guidelines 1990). Slopes may not be greater than eight percent and there must be curb- cuts within greenway connectors to allow access for disabled users. “An accessible surface for pathways is defi ned as fi rm, stable slip resistant surface, e.g. concrete, asphalt, compacted crushed limestone...” (Larsen et al. 2000, 3).

Surfacing Options Surfacing options are often determined based on proposed and existing uses. All surfacing can be categorized as either hard or soft. The portion of the Greenway currently constructed is black asphalt, one of the hard surfacing options. There are additional hard surfaces such as porous pavement and poured Figure 41: Curb Cuts Increase Accessibility And Comply in place concrete. Additionally, it is important to With ADA Requirements. note that cinder and mulch surfacing may not be compliant with ADA standards. Cinder can be acidic refer to Appendix G). The secondary routes of the and damage plant material. Greenway are the concrete sidewalks owned and maintained by the city. It is recommended that the Trail Hierarchy sidewalk connectors are a minimum of fi ve feet wide. Both asphalt and concrete can be used for The Greenway surfacing can be thought of in non-motorized transportation such as bike riding, terms of a trail hierarchy, broken down into primary, pedestrian traffi c and rollerblading. Tertiary routes secondary, and tertiary routes. The primary are roads that connect the user from the Greenway surfacing of the Conner Creek Greenway is black to the sidewalks, such as Conner and Warren in the asphalt and comprises the main route to and from central portion of the project area. Tertiary route destinations. It is recommended that the primary dimensions are based on motorized vehicles. route be at least ten feet wide (for futher information

Figure 42: Comparison of Trail Surfaces Material Type Relative Durability Maintenance ADA Compliance Expense Asphalt Moderate Durable Low Compliant Concrete Expensive Very Durable Low Compliant Bound Gravel & Moderate Durable Replenish Compliant Crushed Stone overtime Cinder Inexpensive Moderately Groom out ruts Not Compliant Durable Mulch Inexpensive Moderately Replenish Not Compliant Durable overtime

45 Conner Creek Greenway Plan

Additional Considerations for Surfacing Research further verifi es that the surfacing options have strengths and weaknesses in terms of maintenance and cost considerations. The following exerpt is taken from American Trails’ Trailbuilding Resources: “These confl icts often lead designers into exploring possible trail surfacing options (of which there is more every year), including: traditional asphalt and concrete permeable asphalt and concrete commercial soil stabilizers, geotextile confi nement systems… In arriving at a recommended trail surface, several key criteria should be considered including:

Initial Capital Cost – Trail surface costs vary dramatically and dollars to build trails are scarce. Construction costs include excavation, subbase preparation, aggregate base placement, and application of the selected trail surface. Costs can vary from a low of around $2.00/SF for a bark mulch trail, up to $12-$13/SF for a rubberized surface.

Maintenance and Long Term Durability – The anticipated life of a trail surface can vary from a single year (bark surface in a moist climate) to 25+ years (concrete). In addition, each trail surface has varying maintenance needs that will require regular to sporadic inspections and follow up depending on the material selected. Some surface repairs can be made with volunteer effort such as on a bark surface trail, while other such as a concrete surface will require skilled craftsmen to perform the repair.

Existing Soil and Environmental Conditions –When considering the use of a permeable concrete or asphalt surface, the success rate of these surfaces is directly correlated Figure 43: Example of Asphalt (top) to the permeability of the soil and climatic conditions. The lower the permeability and Figure 44: Example of Concrete (middle) moisture, the greater risk of failure. Figure 45: Example of Pervious or Pourus Asphalt Availability of Materials – A great trail surface (bottom) in one area of the country may prove cost- prohibitive in another area due to availability of materials. Limestone-treated trail surfaces are common in the eastern US, but unheard

46 of in the west due to a lack of limestone. There with the overall design concept desired for are also some environmentally sound ideas the project” (Hudson G. 2006, 1-2). such as the use of recycled glass in asphalt (called “Glassphalt”), but because this is not Cost is also important for determining what surfacing done on a large scale basis, fi nding a source gradation will be fi nancially practical for the Greenway. for the glass aggregate may prove diffi cult. “Asphalt tends to be slightly less expensive, readily accepts color coating and the results of cracking are Anticipate Use/Functionality – Who are the less severe” (Larsen et al. 2000, 49). anticipated users of the trail? Will the trail surface need to accommodate equestrians, NODES AND AMENITIES wheelchairs, maintenance vehicles, bicycles, Nodes are areas of activity along the greenway etc.? Multiple use trails attempt to meet which provide places to gather or rest as well as a the needs of all anticipated trail users. But selection of amenities. Nodes and amenities make this may not be feasible with a single trail the Conner Creek Greenway more comfortable for surface. Consider the shoulder area as a the users and serve as focal points from the road. usable surface, making it wide enough for We recommend that node locations take advantage use by those preferring a softer material. of existing assets, enhancing current areas of Each surface also has varying degrees of activity. Potential nodes to be created or enhanced roughness and therefore accommodates include Lipke Park, the Warren Conner shopping varying users. In-line skates, for example, plaza, Chandler Park, the intersection at Conner cannot be used on a chip seal surface or and Gratiot, and Maheras-Gentry Park. most permeable concrete surfaces due to the coarseness of the fi nished surface. The following renderings suggest how and where nodes might appear. The images are not meant to Funding Source – The funding source for suggest specifi c locations, but rather general areas the trail may dictate the trail surface characteristics. If the trail has federal funds and is being administered through a state DOT, the state DOT will need to review and approve the selected trail surface.

Susceptibility to Vandalism – Trail surfaces are not usually thought of as being susceptible to vandalism, but the characteristics of the varying surfaces do lend themselves to a variety of vandalism including movement of materials such as gravel or bark, graffi ti on hard surfaces, arson (wood and rubber surfaces), and deformation.

Aesthetics – Each trail surface has varying aesthetic characteristics that should fi t

Figure 46: Design Concept For Node At Warren Conner Shopping Plaza

47 Conner Creek Greenway Plan where we believe nodes would be an asset to the Greenway.

In addition to lighting, signage, and the other design elements discussed, there are additional types of street furniture and amenities which can make the greenway more comfortable for users, and provide a unifying appearance to the length of the Greenway.

Benches Greenway benches should be placed at an interval acceptable for the number of users, as well as at key nodes. For instance, more benches should be placed in the southern portion of the Greenway to accomodate the large senior population. Benches provide a place to rest and congregate and should be sized to comfortably seat the average adult. Benches are available in a variety of styles, ranging from basic to elaborate works of art. Due to the climate, wood benches would be preferable to metal, as wood would be more comfortable to sit on in cool weather. As Conner Creek Greenway will be a multiuse trail, benches should be placed three feet off of the trail. This set-back allows bicyclists and rollerbladers suffi cient space to avoid confl ict with seated pedestrians (Flink 1993, p 270).

Trash Receptacles Trash cans are essential to maintaining a clean greenway, and should be easily accessible to users and maintenance staff. Trash cans should be consistent with city maintenance standards for easy removal of bags. Similarly to benches, trash receptacles should be set-back three feet from the trail, and placed at nodes of activities, near other facilities, and points where users congregate (Flink 1993, p 270).

Water Fountains Water fountains are a desirable amenity for longer trails, such as the Conner Creek Greenway. They can be placed in existing nodes, such as parks, for more frequent monitoring and easier maintenance.

Bike Racks Bike racks should also be placed at nodes of activity. This encourages users to come from further distances, as well as encourages alternative modes Figure 47: Design Concept For Node At Lipke Park of transportation.

48 Restroom Facilities Restrooms are an important amenity on the Conner Creek Greenway, as it will be approximately eight miles long. Restrooms can be located in parks, which are well spaced along the greenway, for more frequent monitoring and more convenient maintenance. Signage at nodes should indicate the closest restroom facility.

Canine Amenities Dog waste stations encourage pet owners to dispose of waste in a proper manner, keeping the Greenway clean for everyone’s use. These stations can also provide the plastic bags, which can simultaneously encourage neighborhood recycling of plastic bags. Also, water fountains can include a low spout for bowls to be fi lled or for dogs to drink directly from.

Figure 49: Design Concept For Node At The Intersec- tion Of Gratiot And Conner

Figure 48: Design Concept For Node At Chandler Park Entrance

49 MAINTENANCE

Figure 50: Community Participation Will Ease Maintenace

50 Maintenance standards are important to consider as they relate to the upkeep of features such as CPTED Maintenance Considerations: signage, plantings, amenities, surfacing, as well as maintaining American with Disabilities Act The Broken Windows Theory suggests that the compliance and safety of the greenway. mere presence of a broken window will entice vandals to break more windows in the vicinity. Maintainance tasks can be divided into three broad The sooner broken windows are fi xed, the less categories: likely it is that such vandalism will occur in the future. Likewise, if trash accumulates on the Routine – daily, weekly, and monthly tasks for repairs, Greenway and is not cleaned up, then more and vegetation control, garbage cleanup, etc. The more people may litter. level of maintenance depends on how often the greenway is used and the availability of funds. certain foliage that will require sweeping. Raking of turf areas adjacent to the greenway path will also Long-term – involves renovation and trail resurfacing. be required. In the long-term, the path surface This type of maintenance should continue may require repairs to cracks in the asphalt. These regularly. It is important to maintain the Greenway types of repairs will be important for the safety of the regularly as it will keep it safe for residents as well user. avoid high cost when maintenance is delayed. There have been recommendations to DECC that Emergency repair – is needed for circumstances a matrix of responsibilities be designed based on that require immediate attention such as issues the item requiring maintenance, the category of with storm damage. maintenance required, and the assigned party. Features These recommendations include strategies for snow removal, tree trimming, walkway cleanup, and Signage along the Greenway will require routine irrigation: plow snow as necessary, prune deciduous maintenance such as monitoring for cleanliness of trees along the path, pick up trash and broken glass, the surface and graffi ti. empty trash containers, recycle cans, and report vandalism. Also identifi ed in the draft outline was Plantings the need to 1) inspect the irrigation system, 2) adjust Routine maintenance will be required for the plantings heads, 3) check timers, 4) record water usage and 5) along the Greenway. Depending on the planting type maintain open drain systems during the fall season there may be a need for daily, weekly and monthly (DECC 2006). maintenance for vegetation maintenance and control. Native plantings will not require as much water or Overall, there is a minimum level of routine fertilizer. Please see the Suggested Maintenance maintenance required for the Greenway. The Schedule for suggested scheduling of plant care. maintenance schedule should be based on available funding, availability of maintenance coverage and Amenities need. Occasionally, there may be a need for an Cleanup and garbage removal will be important emergency repair and long-term maintenance of the regular activities with increased pick-up dates during surface for repairs of cracks in the surface. It will be high-volume summer events. important to consider what maintenance strategies are already in place with organizations along the Surfacing Greenway, as well as public amenities, features As mentioned the surfaces will require routine and plantings that already are maintained with seasonal attention specifi c to drainage (irrigation, city services. It is encouraged that the Greenway erosion control/dust control), grass cutting, and users that responsible for maintenance and safety snow removal. The need for snow and ice removal standards be aware of the City’s maintenance will be based on the number of times it snows and schedule. Coordinating resources will help cut down how much snow falls (one inch or more) during the on the costs of maintenance. winter season. During fall season, there will be

51 Conner Creek Greenway Plan

inspection. Ensuring the longevity and regular use of the Conner Creek Greenway requires continuous maintenance; • Include fi eld crews, police and fi re/rescue therefore, a maintenance schedule should be personnel in both the design review and on- established with daily, weekly, and monthly tasks. going management process. Environmental factors such as ice, snow, leaves, and overgrown vegetation can compromise the greenway. • Maintain an effective, responsive public feedback In addition, infrastructure deteriorates because of system and promote public participation. ordinary wear and tear, and litter accumulation is also be a problem. During special events along the • Be a good neighbor to adjacent properties. Greenway, extra maintenance might be required. (Hudson G. 2006) Adopt-A-Greenway includes different groups or businesses adopting segments of the Greenway to The following page contains a suggested Greenway assist in its maintenance, such as cleaning up litter. maintenance schedule. Some of these groups that may want to participate in an Adopt-a-Greenway program are the community assets in the area, like schools, churches, and libraries.

Those responsible for its maintenance should be aware of any signifi cant cracks, potholes, or other issues on the path. Likewise, the City should fi x any problems just outside of the Greenway because these safety issues may prevent users, especially bicyclists or persons with dissabilities from entering the trail.

Guiding Principles for a Successful Program While developing a maintenance schedule that includes safety standards, it will be important to consider having a set of principles which guide the success of the maintenance program.

The following are guiding maintenance principles proposed by American Trails:

• Good maintenance begins with sound planning and design.

• Foremost, protect life, property, and the environment.

• Promote and maintain a quality outdoor recreation experience.

• Develop a management plan that is reviewed and updated annually with tasks, operational policies, standards, and routine and remedial maintenance goals.

• Maintain quality control and conduct regular 52 Figure 51: Suggested Greenway Maintenance Schedule Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Snow Removal (as necessary)

Spring Clean-Up

Trail Repair (resurfacing, patching)

Monitoring (more frequent in warm months)

Turf Management

Re-seeding

Fertilize

Mowing*

Tree and Shrub Care

Pruning

Replacement Planting

Mulching

Watering (as needed; consider gater-bags)

Annuals

Planting

Deadheading (as needed)

Watering (as needed)

Bed Cleanup

Perennials

Mulching/Fertilizing

Re-planting

Cut off dead stock

Water (during establishment and as needed)

Deadheading (as needed)

Pest Management

53 PROGRAMMING

Figure 52: Programming Activities, Like Bike Decorating, Can Be Tailored To Various Demographics Along The Greenway, Increasing The Number Of Users

54 Programming is an essential part of the development Programming Ideas and Concepts: of a greenway, trail, or other open space. Through experience, planners of trails and greenways have • 5K or 10K Run/Walks & Walkathons: Any found that simply building this type of amenity does of these options could be tied into community not mean that it will automatically be used. A survey organizations, local business, or neighborhood done in Sumter County, South Carolina, and then groups to raise money for a cause or just as a fun published in Preventive Medicine’s November 2004 community gathering, like a Turkey Trot run/walk issue, found that 40% of the people living near trails near Thanksgiving. were not aware of their existence (Robbins 2005).

In a spirit similar to Detroit, Wilkes-Barre, • Walking Clubs: Walking clubs could be organized Pennsylvania is hoping to increase residents’ activity through schools, senior centers, neighborhoods, levels by building and promoting multi-use trails. This churches or workplaces. Setting a specifi c day town’s population is growing older and increasingly to walk with a group can make exercise a habit, inactive, resulting in high rates of heart disease facilitate friendships and new acquaintances, and and various other health problems. Wilkes-Barre increase perceived safety of the Greenway. For the was formerly a coal-mining town, and the residents older population, buses could transport elderly from associated physical exertion with work. No longer senior facilities, and weekly walks could include low- working in the coal-mines, older residents rarely impact exercise instruction. exercise and have become sedentary (Robbins 2005). This is similar to Detroit, where the loss of • Walk & Talk: “In Bolivar, Missouri, citizens who automotive and manufacturing jobs has contributed want to discuss business with the mayor are invited to a sedentary population. Completing, promoting, to join him on fi tness walks on the town’s railtrail. and programming the Conner Creek Greenway Local residents turn out in groups of 20 to 50 to get will facilitate increased activity on the eastside of face time with the mayor” (Robbins 2005). Although Detroit. walking with the mayor may not be possible in a city the size of Detroit, this could be replicated with other Greenway programming efforts should maintain a public offi cials or council members. sense of balance between creative programming and basic maintenance. “Across the country, parks departments have been encouraged by local • Art Projects: Neighborhood youth could be governments to concentrate on sports and recreations engaged in a variety of craft projects, like making programming, leaving little money for maintenance kites or streamers and then walking the greenway or improvements for basic facilities in urban parks, with them, or decorating bike wheels with crepe says Kathy Madden, director of the Urban Parks paper and riding down the greenway. Creating public Institute at the New York-based Project for Public art could also be tied in with near-by schools, and Space” (Hargett 2001). Detroit currently has limited students could make projects, like tiles, that could funds for maintenance so engaging local residents to be incorporated into the Greenway or connecting participate in volunteer upkeep is a necessary option parks. that will require a major programming initiative. • Scavenger Hunt: A scavenger hunt could be set up The Conner Creek Greenway could engage and through community organizations or neighborhood restore visitors’ attention and offer a continuous groups around a seasonal theme, like an Easter Egg recreational path adventure throughout the year. Hunt, or by using existing assets, such as having Walking alone, setting up an exercise program, youth fi nd specifi c cars, birds, or plants along the or bringing attention to the green spaces can help Greenway. improve both physical and mental health. The Greenway is an effective tool to improve physical activity but also can restore human functioning by • Adopt-A-Greenway: Segments of the Greenway relieving stress. can be adopted by different groups or businesses to assist with maintenance, litter removal, and general clean-up (MARC 2006). Many businesses such as

55 Conner Creek Greenway Plan the Detroit Airport would also benefi t from being Conner Street passes by churches, schools and located along a well maintained greenway. shopping centers, providing an ideal route for engaged walking. In addition, the Greenway is also • Bike or Walk to Work Programs: Local businesses proposed to go through more quiet and nurturing can support the use of the Greenway for commuting, open spaces, also ideal for meditative walking. and even provide incentives to their employees, like exercise tracking sheets or coupons for the local Meditation or engaged walking does not require a farmer’s market. Youth can also make use of the set starting or stopping point. The majority of the Greenway for “commuting,” for after-school trips to route is conducive to outwardly-focused engaged the library or a park. walking, useful for transitioning from everyday life to an environmental focus, and fi nally to meditation. • Fitness Trail: A fi tness trail incorporates exercise The walking route is restorative in the sense that stations along a trail or path, typically around a loop. it provides sources of innate fascination and a Along the Conner Creek Greenway, a prime spot sense of being away from everyday activities. It is for the installation of exercise stations alongside conducive to walking, engagement, and refl ection the Greenway might be in a loop around part of the throughout the year. The changing seasons create DaimlerChrysler Industrial Complex. Although this is quite different nature scenes as the leaves on the ultimately a self-guided program, the grand opening abundant trees change color and snow blankets the of the fi tness loop could include a guided tour with ground. demonstrations at each station. Activities to Engage Walkers: • Tours: These could be tied into schools or • People watch community groups, and could include environmental Observe a new detail in an everyday scene awareness programs and nature walks. Historical • tours of the area and the creek’s original course • Create designs with rocks, twigs, leaves, or other would be an exciting way for residents to learn more natural elements about their neighborhood. Seasonal tours would • Notice the feel of the ground beneath your feet in be another valuable programming option, such as a different weather conditions Haunted Hike in the fall. • Identify different sounds Gardens: Schools could be involved with • The Conner Creek Greenway serves multiple creating a demonstration garden with native species functions as it is a path for residents to reach along the Greenway, each grade level tending to a destinations, for recreational use, and a space for specifi c area or type of crop. Also, neighborhood healing. These programming recommendations groups could create community gardens near the offer physical activity opportunities to meet the Greenway, and offer presentations on gardening needs of this community. Also, since our Greenway tips. is located amongst a variety of mixed land uses and diverse demographic populations, programming • Leisure Activities: by adding benches and tables, should refl ect the needs of these populations it would be an ideal rest stop for the public to play card and accommodate to land uses accordingly. For games, have a conversation, or play an instrument instance, at the northern end of the study area, under a nice shade of trees. In addition, since we there are more families with young children and the have a large population of adults 65 and over, these land use is primarily residential. Ideal programming types of rest stops are incentives for this community recommendations for this area would include art to feel comfortable using the Greenway. projects or other programming focused around youth. More Programming: Meditation or Engaged Walking Public Health Promotional Materials The Greenway is also an ideal space for both Within the University of Michigan’s School of Public engaged and meditative walking. The route along Health, students developed a variety of concepts for

56 health promotion materials to encourage residents east-west crossings are required, an arrow may to use the Greenway to engage in physical activity. also help indicate how to continue) Their suggested interventions include a combination • Banners announcing the Conner Creek Greenway of short-term projects, long-term models, and ideas may be printed and attached to existing city light brainstormed by area residents in focus groups. A poles few of these concepts are outlined below: • Have the city paint striped crosswalks on the streets at key decision points to show that the path continues • Newsletter: This quarterly mailing will be • Tie green ribbons to trees and light poles along developed for the three Detroit neighborhoods the greenway participating in the Healthy Environments Partnership. The newsletter will suggest ways for individuals and Art families to use and enjoy the Greenway as well as • Murals illustrating and announcing the greenway highlight upcoming events on the Greenway. Some may be painted by local youth arts associations components of the newsletter may include healthy on appropriate walls near the greenway recipes, Greenway construction updates, and • Have children paint large signs announcing the coupons for local businesses. Conner Creek Greenway • Create large art projects to locate along the • “Point-of-Decision” Reminders: These could greenway include refrigerator magnets, door-knob hangers, and • Create/paint maps of the greenway route at wallet cards, all designed to encourage Greenway several locations along the greenway. Illustrate use. The wallet cards will include a map of the where the viewer is standing relative to the route Greenway and a calendar for users to track exercise and the distance to key destinations. levels, and door-knob hangers or magnets will have prompts such as, “Can you use the Greenway to get Programming activities where you’re going?” • Project fi lms on the greenway and invite families to have picnics in the grass • Community-wide media campaign: A variety • Making kites, hold bicycle decorating contests, of types of communication can be used to and other craft projects encourage physical activity, including billboards, • Advertise in print and by radio (potentially newspaper inserts, direct mailings, local television through donated newspaper space or airtime) advertisements, and public service announcements. • Distribute posters and fl yers announcing the greenway in the local area Inexpensive Methods to Draw Attention to the • Hold an art fair with projects located along the Greenway Greenway for viewing

Nature • Floral displays – bulbs planted in fall • Annuals – such as cosmos fl owers • Vines – such as fl owering morning glories • Establish community garden nodes along the greenway like the one that exists between Seven Mile and Eight Mile on Conner • Butterfl y garden • Bird, bat and butterfl y houses

Advertisement • Spray paint a simple green leaf design and the words ‘Conner Creek Greenway’ at the beginning and end of each stretch of greenway (This will be especially effective on the city streets. Where

57 CONCLUSION

Figure 53: Conner Creek Greenway Enhances The Natural Beauty Of Detroit’s Eastside

58 The Conner Creek Greenway will have several resources. One strategy is an Adopt-a-Greenway positive infl uences on the Eastside community as program. Seeking maintenance partnerships with well as the City of Detroit at large. In this report we local businesses, churches, and neighborhood have listed various recommendations. groups will build a degree of commitment to the Greenway as a neighborhood asset and stretch One recommendation is to implement nodes along limited maintenance funds by delegating easier the length of the Greenway. We recommend locating clean-up tasks to local volunteers. Coordinating nodes at Lipke Park, the Warren Conner Shopping this integration of volunteers will be an on-going Plaza, Chandler Park, the corner of Gratiot and necessity. Conner, and Maheras-Gentry Park. These existing parks and shopping areas currently attract people Our fi fth recommendation is to enhance community and by placing nodes at these activity points, we identity for eastside residents. If people feel a integrate the Greenway as a transportation option connections to the Greenway, it will help strengthen within the area. At these nodes, we recommend their community identity. The more residents think of including amenities such as benches, trash their neighborhood as part the the larger Greenway, receptacles, water fountains, bike racks, signs to the more the Greenway becomes a visible icon. nearby restroom facilities, and canine amenities. These amenities will provide attractive meeting and These recommendations, as well as the others resting points. These amenities directly respond to discussed in our report will help us achieve the original the community input from the focus groups and city- project’s goals. The Conner Creek Greenway will wide charrette. increase the opportunities for physical recreation, add to the area’s attractiveness, and ultimately connect As our analysis of the area showed, there are different and strengthen the community. Finally, a network demographic characteristics along the length of the of greenways throughout Southeastern Michigan greenway. It is therefore essential to offer a variety of will provide physical connections amongst diverse porgrams that are carefully tailored to the population neighborhoods and counties. Following our fi ndings of the sub-area. A second recommendation is to and recommendations will be helpful in implementing provide a variety of programming that relates to the upcoming phases of the greenway. diverse groups such as the youth and seniors. In the northern portion of the Greenway, programming should be targeted toward families and youth. In the southern portion of the Greenway, programming should be targeted toward seniors.

One of DECC’s goals is to connect the Greenway and local residents with the Detroit River. This ties to our third recommendation that the next phase of the Greenway should be from the river to Jefferson Avenue. The river is a natural attraction and constructing this third phase of the Greenway from Maheris-Gentry Park north, will draw attention to natural feature and introduce the Greenway to residents at the southern end. As other greenways within Detroit are constructed, a cooperative maintenance and operation structure could be implemented. This would take advantage of cost savings by pooling resources that smaller greenways could not affort. Therefore, a maintenance team might be a shared resource.

Our fourth recommendation is to implement creative maintenance strategies due to limited fi nancial

59 TEAM BIOGRAPHIES, BIBLIOGRAPHY, AND FIGURE SOURCES

Figure 54: Plantings With Desirable Traits, Such As Providing Autumn Color, Will Enliven The Greenway, As They Do Along The Battle Creek Linear Park In Michigan.

60 TEAM BIOGRAPHIES

Regina Ann Campbell is a Native Detroiter, who Jenifer Huestis is a native Chicagoan and a currently resides in Southfi eld, Michigan with her University of Michigan Master of Urban Planning husband Terrance and son Torrance. She is a candidate who has spent several years working graduate of Thomas M. Cooley High School and for economic, community, and social justice has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology development organizations throughout the Chicago with a minor in African American Studies from and Washington metropolitan areas. She has Western Michigan University. Additionally, she also devoted time to community and academic has a Masters Degree in Social Work with a research initiatives concerning urban immigrants, Concentration in Community Practice/Social Action affordable housing, urban growth management, from Wayne State University. She is a Candidate urban revitalization, and workforce development for Masters in Urban Planning, her concentration is programs. Community, Housing & Economic Development. Mitchell Wimbish is a University of Michigan During Mrs. Campbell’s educational pursuits, she Master of Urban Planning candidate originally has worked in several capacities as a Human from Tulsa. He has worked in the non-profi t Service Professional, Community Planner, Project sector in New York City as an organizer of Manager and Legislative Analyst. Mrs. Campbell community gardens and in the development of is a Community Advocate at heart and believes markets to increase access to fresh food in low- that all children are entitled to a decent and safe income neighborhoods. His interests include farm place to live. She seeks to be a tool that will bring preservation and food security, neighborhood affordable rental and homeownership opportunities design, and sustainable development. to urban citizens in need that will inturn have a ‘spillover effect’ of economic development for urban Lindsay-Jean Hard is from Grand Rapids and areas. received her B.A. in Organizational Studies from the University of Michigan. Currently she is a Jazmin Marie Casas received her B.A. in Women University of Michgan Master of Urban Planning Studies and minor in Chicana/o Studies at the candidate who has experience researching University of California, Los Angeles. Origianlly infrastructure for local communities. Her interests from Los Angeles, she is currently attaining her include housing, sustainable development, and Masters degree in Urban and Regional Planning green building. with a concentration in Transportation at the University of Michigan. Her research interests are in topics such as the intersections of race, class, and gender, issues related around transportation.

Howard Karp received his B.A. in Communication at the University of Arizona. Originally from the bay area, he is currently attaining his Masters degree in Urban and Regional Planning with a concentration in Environmental Planning at the University of Michigan. He hopes that his urban planning career allows him to work in a variety of places throughout the U.S. and abroad.

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65 FIGURE SOURCES

Figure 2: 1915 Plan of Detroit 8 Figure Courtesy of Detroit (Mich.). City Plan Commission, 1916 Figure 4: Historical Conner Creek 10 Figure Courtesy of Hamilton Anderson Figure 17: Mural Wall in Battle Creek Linear Park 26 Figure Courtesy of Christopher Coutts Figure 18: Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail Street Crossing 27 Figure Courtesy of http://www.pps.org/gps/one?public_place_id=63 Figure 19: Bulb-out in Vancouver, Canada 27 Figure Courtesy of http://vancouver.ca/engsvcs/streets/greenways/otherInitiatives.htm Figure 20: Greenway in Tsukuba, Japan 28 Figure Courtesy of http://www.americantrails.org/trailtracks/NewYears01TT/JapanGrn.pdf Figure 36: Example of an Informational – Directional Sign 41 Figure Courtesy of sitemaker.umich.edu/mark.dennis/fi les/md-huron_signage.pdf Figure 37: Example of an Educational – Interpretive Sign 42 Figure Courtesy of http://bio.bd.psu.edu/plant_web/Ginkgoaceae/Japanese_Fan_Tree_Sign.html Figure 38: CVS Historical Photograph Display 42 Figure Courtesy of P.J. Brownlee, www.webdelsol.com/Topic/extras/zipp.html Figure 40: Example of Festival Sign 43 Figure Courtesy of http://www.downtowndc.org/page.asp?pageid=2|14|33 Figure 42: Comparison of Trail Surfaces Table 44 Figure Courtesy of Larsen et al. 2000 Figure 43: Example of Asphalt Surfacing 45 Figure Courtesy of http://www.americantrails.org/resources/trailbuilding/docs/AltaTrailSurface.pdf Figure 44: Example of Concrete Surfacing 45 Figure Courtesy of http://www.americantrails.org/resources/trailbuilding/docs/AltaTrailSurface.pdf Figure 45: Example of Pervious Asphalt Surfacing 45 Figure Courtesy of http://www.americantrails.org/resources/trailbuilding/docs/AltaTrailSurface.pdf Figure 50: Community Participation with Maintenance 49 Figure Courtesy of http://greenmuseum.org/i_img/mary_arnold1.jpg Figure 52: Bike Decorating Contest 53 Figure Courtesy of www.eastampton.com/125th/125th%20Memorial%20Day.htm Figure 54: Plantings with Desirable Traits 59 Figure Courtesy of Christopher Coutts

66 APPENDICES

67 APPENDIX A: GREENWAY BACKGROUND AND LITERATURE REVIEW

What is a greenway?

Greenways are linear parks that are usually vegetated and provide a path from one destination to another. They can be recreation oriented with trails and sporting facilities, preserve natural habitats, buffer new development, or preserve the unique culture or history of a place (Searns 1995). Since the Presidential Commission on American Outdoors in the USA published a document promoting the proliferation of natural corridors and living networks in 1987, greenways have gained momentum . By 1992 there were over 500 documented greenway projects underway (Fabos 1995).

Fabos (1995) describes three primary types of greenways: ecologically signifi cant corridors and natural systems; recreational greenways; and greenways with historical and cultural values. Conner Creek Greenway fi ts into Fabos’ last category as it will provide a space for recreation, education, scenery, and economic benefi ts.

Why do communities want greenways?

Greenways are increasingly being used as a policy and sociopolitical tool to increase physical activity (Brownson 2001). Because they benefi t all people exposed to the environment at one time, they can be more effective at increasing physical activity than typical individual behavior and lifestyle modifi cation strategies (Schmid et al. 1995). Hovel et al (1992) and Brownson et al. (1998) have shown that access to trails has a positive correlation to physical activity. This trend is especially true for women and people with lower socioeconomic statuses, the populations at the highest risk of inactivity (Brownson et al 2000).

In addition to physical health benefi ts, research has shown that proximity to greenways improves psychological health (Wells 2000, Ulrich 1984, Kaplan 1998). The benefi ts of stress reduction yielded from greenways has the potential to reduce crime (Kuo and Sullivan 2001, Nasar and Jones 1995).

Because early development often occurred at the banks of waterways, and greenways often take advantage of urban hydrological features, greenways can also capture and preserve local history and culture along their trails (Fabos 1995). Reestablishing natural features near waterways also has the potential to reduce water pollution and provides a sieve for stormwater recycling. Fabos (1995) suggests that greenways are an adapted park system that might replace the traditional central park structure in response to decentralized urban development patterns. In this sense, greenways might become a new form of urban infrastructure.

Who uses greenways?

Typical greenway users belong to middle and upper-middle classes (Lindsey 2001). They are usually well- educated white persons who prefer active recreational activities (Moore et al. 1992, Mowen et al 1998). Scott and Munson (1994) showed that lower-income persons are three times less likely to use parks than persons with higher incomes. Their fi ndings found this trend to be exaggerated for African Americans, women, older persons, and persons with lower education levels.

What encourages or discourages a person from using a greenway?

Neighborhood characteristics like sidewalks, scenery, light traffi c, and air quality positively affect physical activity (Brownson 2001). For lower income persons, Brownson (2001) found that the presence of attractive scenery was the most important factor affecting physical activity. Sallis and Owen (1999) revealed the importance of social support or physical activity. A study by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (1996) showed a direct relationship between crime and physical activity.

Conducting a nationwide survey with an emphasis on lower-income participants, Brownson (1995) found that lower-income persons, and especially lower-income women, face multiple personal and social barriers

68 to physical activity. These included, but are not limited to, limited access to indoor and outdoor recreation facilities, heavy traffi c, lack of scenery, unattended dogs, foul air from cars and factories, bad weather, self consciousness, poor physical health, fear of injury, and limited social support. The only facility used b a larger proportion of lower-income than higher-income women was shopping malls.

What characteristics are most important to greenway users?

A study by Gobster and Westphal (2003) describe six foundational characteristics that shape Chicago greenway users’ perceptions of trail space:

Cleanliness- In Chicago this refers specifi cally to the clarity of river water, but can be applied to general condition and maintenance of greenway spaces. Because defi nitions of “maintained” and “clean” vary, it was important for Chicago planners to hold outreach meetings to anticipate residents’ maintenance expectations. Naturalness- Because greenways are a response to urban development, and because they are most urban residents only interface with nature, it is key that people can relate to a greenway ecosystem. Focus groups in Chicago spent a signifi cant amount of time discussing preservation and reintroduction of vegetation and wildlife. Aesthetics: Scenic beauty of a space in infl uenced by both cleanliness and naturalness, but even a clean and natural site can be aesthetically unpleasing. Aesthetics provide peace and solice for users. “One inner city focus group participant said that when people get a chance to look at the river and not just factories ‘…they feel better.’” This condition can easily be replicated in Detroit by using the Conner Creek Greenway to connect residents to the river, and reintroduce it as an aesthetically pleasing public space. Safety- Safety can be broken down into physical safety, fears of children falling from playground equipment or health concerns over allergens, and personal safety, fear of malicious wrong-doers with the intent to hurt people. Safety was a major concern for Chicago River greenway users. Access- Access can refer to either physical or visual access to a greenway. This has become an increasingly important topic as central cities lose natural spaces; fewer people have frequent interactions with nature in central cities. Physical access can be improved by adding public boat launches at the mouth of a river or creating inviting greenway gateways in multiple communities. Visual access can be improved by maintaining tall weeds and removing outdated, dilapidated, or unused fences. Appropriate Development- Because communities hope greenways will catalyze housing and economic development, Chicago residents had concerns about appropriate development adjacent to natural spaces. Rather than encouraging spectacular entertainment-oriented riverfront revitalization projects, they preferred revitalization that restored nature, safety, and provided suffi cient, appropriate structures.

69 APPENDIX B: DEMOGRAPHIC CHANGE OVER TIME TABLES

1970 1980 1990 2000 Age Number % Number % Number % Number % 0-4 30,297 9.59% 19,496 8.48% 18,997 10.14% 13,786 8.26% 5-9 30,378 9.61% 21,176 9.21% 16,306 8.71% 17,694 10.60% 10-14 32,048 10.14% 20,706 9.01% 15,303 8.17% 16,529 9.90% 15-17 18,904 5.98% 12,939 5.63% 9,946 5.31% 8,100 4.85% 18-19 11,087 3.51% 7,889 3.43% 6,871 3.67% 4,878 2.92% 20-24 26,299 8.32% 22,925 9.97% 14,398 7.69% 11,135 6.67% 25-59 19,435 6.15% 20,364 8.86% 14,798 7.90% 12,246 7.34% 30-34 14,378 4.55% 15,364 6.68% 15,802 8.44% 11,370 6.81% 35-44 30,108 9.53% 19,037 8.28% 25,528 13.63% 23,845 14.29% 45-54 37,154 11.76% 19,957 8.68% 14,483 7.73% 19,827 11.88% 55-64 30,747 9.73% 22,691 9.87% 13,274 7.09% 10,548 6.32% 65-74 21,483 6.80% 16,530 7.19% 12,721 6.79% 8,927 5.35% 75+ 13,707 4.34% 10,850 4.72% 8,867 4.73% 8,000 4.79% Total 316,025 100.00% 229,924 100.00% 187,294 100.00% 166,885 100.00%

1970 1980 1990 2000 Number % Number % Number % Number % Total Housing Units 106,685 100% 88767 100% 71,140 100% 63,160 100% Vacant Units 7,594 7% 8,346 9% 6,834 10% 7,623 12% Occupied Units 99,091 93% 80,421 91% 64,306 90% 55,537 88% Owner Occupied 58,344 59% 42,961 53% 31,110 48% 27,803 50% Renter Occupied 40,749 41% 37,461 47% 33,196 52% 27,734 50%

1970 1980 1990 2000 Race Number % Number % Number % Number % White 163,253 52.11% 73,117 31.64% 27,626 14.91% 9,880 6.06% Black 147,668 47.13% 155,435 67.26% 156,738 84.57% 152,034 93.18% Hispanic 2,386 0.76% 2,533 1.10% 964 0.52% 1,241 0.76% Total 313,307 100% 231,085 100% 185,328 100% 163,155 100%

70 Population Turnover 1970 1980 1990 2000 Number % Number % Number % Number % Total Study Area 150,611 49.19% 120,897 56.17% 98,537 55.40% 91,615 57.22% North of I-94 69,637 58.48% 52,158 53.46% 47,933 52.16% 49,181 56.48% South of I-94 80,974 43.27% 68,739 58.41% 50,604 58.85% 42,434 58.11%

Average Family Income Persons Below the Poverty Level

Study Number in % in Study Number in City % in City Area City % of City Study Area Area of Detroit of Detroit 1970 $10,427 $11,611 90% 56,942 16% 194,686 17% 1980 $17,460 $20,259 86% 61,752 26% 225,663 25% 1990 $25,311 $30,616 83% 75,901 40% 271,498 36% 2000 $40,118 $46,513 86% 52,408 34% 196,138 28%

Number of Female-Headed Households with Own Percent of Families with Children Children that are Female Headed 1970 9822 24.84% 1980 14682 49.92% 1990 15074 65.06% 2000 12394 63.53%

71 APPENDIX C: COMMUNITY ASSETS TABLE ZIP ASSETS NAME ADDRESS CODE PHONE NUMBER MUNICIPAL N. Central Neighborhood City Hall 2328 East 7 Mile Suite #2 48234 852-5700 Mini Police Station East 7 Mile Road Water and Sewage Plant East 8 Mile Road

CHURCHES Assumption (Grotto) 13770 Gratiot Avenue 48205 372-0762 Beth-Eden Missionary Baptist Church 12057 Gratiot Avenue 48205 371-5111 Church of Jesus Christ Our Lord 12536 Gunston Street 48205 365-6310 Cross of Glory 16661 E State Fair Street 48205 839-5787 Fairview 14142 Fordham Street 48205 527-1910 Faith Christian Outreach Center 14165 E 7 Mile Road 48205 521-5090 Faith Temple 11849 E 7 Mile Road 48205 527-5120 Fountain of Truth Missionary Baptist Church 12227 Findlay Street 48205 839-5200 Golden Gate Missionary Baptist Church 12330 E Mcnichols Road 48205 521-4180 Good Hope Missionary 12051 E 7 Mile Road 48205 526-1505 Good Shepherd 20247 Regent Drive 48205 527-6353 Gospel Tabernacle of Detroit 11949 E Mcnichols Road 48205 526-3623 Grace 18020 Hoover Street 48205 527-4944 Haven of Rest Missionary 12405 Gunston Street 48205 839-1639 Henderson Memorial 20210 Schoenherr Street 48205 924-0088 Iconium Missionary Baptist Church 11501 E Mcnichols Road 48205 526-1480 Love Faith Center 11604 E Mcnichols Road 48205 372-2070 Mt. Zion 13560 E Mcnichols Road 48205 526-4000 New Life COGIC 13427 E Mcnichols Road 48205 527-4930 Our Lady of Good Counsel 17201 Annott Street 48205 372-1698 Redemption 12411 E 7 Mile Road 48205 526-5631 St Mary University Church of Truth 13038 E Mcnichols Road 48205 372-1117 St Raymond 20103 Joann Street 48205 527-0525 Stretching Out In God Ministry 12986 Houston Whittier 48205 371-0740 Zion Hill Baptist Church of East Detroit 12017 Dickerson Street 48205 372-3987 Allen Temple 4101 Helen Street 48207 925-8311 Capuchin Monastery 1740 Mount Elliott Street 48207 579-2100 Christ Independent Lutheran Church 1045 E Grand Boulevard 48207 821-2333 Coleman Memorial 1011 E Grand Boulevard 48207 571-4410 Everybody’s Tabernacle of Holiness 3672 Meldrum Street 48207 571-8155 First Church of Deliverance Divine Science 6351 Waterloo Street 48207 925-3630 Greater Mountain View Missionary 4211 Mount Elliott Street 48207 924-2500 Greater Mt Carmel Missionary 3600 Helen Street 48207 923-3632 Greater St. Peter 4400 Mount Elliott Street 48207 923-3161 House of God Church 2946 Mount Elliott Street 48207 923-7355

72 Love Temple 3975 Beaufait Street 48207 925-2440 Messiah Episcopal Church 231 E Grand Boulevard 48207 567-1158 Mt. Elliott Street Church of God in Christ 3474 Mount Elliott Street 48207 924-7531 New Calvary 3975 Concord Street 48207 923-1600 New Harmony 2455 Mount Elliott Street 48207 579-2384 New Morning Star Baptist Church of Detroit 4660 Mount Elliott Street 48207 571-7630 New Mt Zion Lodge Number 5 6921 Gratiot Avenue 48207 921-0788 New Pilgrim Missionary 4656 Canton Street 48207 923-4930 New Silver Star Missionary Baptist Church6901 Gratiot Avenue 48207 923-8140 Our Lady of Sorrows 2965 Meldrum Street 48207 571-4643 Renaissance 1045 E Grand Boulevard 48207 922-7287 Second Church of Christ, Scientist 147 E Grand Boulevard 48207 567-2053 Second Evergreen Missionary Baptist Church 1700 Meldrum Street 48207 579-0098 Second Unity Baptist Church 1101 E Grand Boulevard 48207 923-6950 Trinity Deliverance Church 740 E Grand Boulevard 48207 921-2244 Universal Liberty and Christ Temple 7000 E Canfi eld Street 48207 923-5360 Wesley Chapel 1807 Concord Street 48207 571-8753 Calvary Church of Jesus Christ 6318 Varney Street 48211 922-3877 Christ Love Tabernacle Missionary 5212 Helen Street 48211 925-2030 Church of the Living God CWFF Tmpl No 69 7053 Longyear Street 48211 925-4940 East Grand Boulevard 1432 E Grand Boulevard 48211 925-0910 Faith Prayer Healing Temple COGIC 6515 Miller Street 48211 921-0636 Jerusalem 6729 Strong Street 48211 894-6330

LIBRARIES Chandler Park 12800 Harper Avenue 48213 852-4346 Jefferson 12350 East Outer Drive 48224 267-6562 Monteith 14100 Kercheval Street 48215 852-5761 Wilder 7140 East 7 Mile Road 48234 852-4285

PUBLIC 48213 SCHOOLS A.L. Holmes Elementary School 8950 Crane Street 866-5644 Blackwell Institute 9330 Shoemaker 48213 866-4391 Brewer Elementary School 12450 Hayes Street 48205 866-0404 Bunche Elementary School 2601 Ellery Street 48207 866-7926 Chandler Park Academy-Philip 897 Philip Avenue 48215 821-2552 Cooper Elementary School 6836 Georgia Street 48211 866-8050 Denby High School 12800 Kelly Road 48224 866-7200 2985 East Jefferson 48207 Detroit Academy of Arts and Sciences Avenue 259-1744 Detroit School of Industrial Arts 11406 Morang Drive 48224 839-1883 Duffi eld Elementary School 2715 Macomb Street 48207 494-8350 Eastside Early Childhood Center School 5950 Cadillac 48213 866-6560

73 Foch Middle School 2962 Fairview Street 48214 866-5540 Garvey Academy School 11131 Kercheval 48214 866-4510 Fleming Elementary School 18501 Waltham Street 48205 852-8557 Heilmann Middle School 15491 Maddelein St 48205 866-7233 Golightly Career and Technical Center 900 Dickerson Avenue 48215 822-8820 Joy Middle School 4611 Fairview Street 48214 866-9900 Kettering High School 6101 Van Dyke Avenue 48213 866-5336 Osborn High School 11600 East 7 Mile Road 48205 866-0343 Duke Ellington Conservatory of Music and 48213 Art 8030 East Outer Drive 866-2860 Pershing High School 18875 Ryan Road 48234 866-7700 Pulaski Elementary School 19725 Strasburg Street 48205 866-7022 Richard Elementary School 13840 Lappin Street 48205 245-3581 Southeastern High School 3030 Fairview Street 48214 866-4500 Spain Elementary School 3700 Beaubien Street 48201 494-2081 Vincent Academy (Continuing Education) 7600 Goethe 48213 866-9621 Van Zile Elementary School 2915 East Outer Drive 48234 368-8444

PRIVATE 48205 SCHOOLS Academy of Excellence Inc. 11560 East McNichols 526-1337 & ACADEMIES & Benjamin East Mayes Male Academy 3544 Iroquois 48214 924-0014 DAY CARE 48224 CENTERS Bethany Lutheran School 11475 East Outer Drive 885-0180 Detroit Waldorf School 2555 Burns Avenue 48214 822-0300 Children of the Future Daycare Center 11341 East McNichols 48234 526-2959 Children’s Palace 11640 Morang 48224 526-2610 Cornerstone School 6861 East Nevada 48234 892-1860 Fairview Christian School P.O. Box 05769 48205 839-4400 Genesis Catholic Elementary School 20045 Joann 48205 839-2330 East Bethlehem Lutheran School 3510 East Outer Drive 48234 892-2671 Eastside Vicariate School 4230 Mc Dougall Avenue 48207 921-0023 Mt. Calvary Lutheran School 17100 Chalmers 48205 527-3366 People’s Baptist Christian 3000 Mc Dougall Street 48207 579-2034 St. Jude School 15865 East Seven Mile 48205 839-6792 Wonderland Child Care Center 4719 East 7 Mile 48234 893-4950 WL Bonner Christian Academy 2441 East 7 Mile Road 48234 368-7300

HOSPITALS/ 48213 CLINICS Mercy Renal 5830 Conner Street 343-80000 Saratoga Community Hospital 15000 Gratiot Avenue 48205 568-7200 Mercy Primary Care 5555 Conner Street 48236 579-4000 Henry Ford Medical Center Detroit East 4401 Conner Street 48201 823-9800 St. John Hospital & Medical Center 22101 Moross Road 48236 579-4000 Harper Hospital 3990 John R Street 48201 745-8471

74 Children’s Hospital of Michigan 3901 Beaubien Street 48201 745-5437 7733 East Jefferson 48214 Detroit Riverview Hospital Avenue 499-3000 Detroit Medical Group 14071 East 7 Mile Road 48205 371-2828

Conner Street and Mack MANUFACTURINGBudd-Co-Detroit Plant Avenue Conner Street and Daimer Chrysler-Jefferson Assembly Jefferson Avenue

Chandler Park Drive and PARKS & Chandler Park Golf Course/Chandler Park Dickerson St. VanDyke Street and Kem PLAYGROUNDS & Lodge Playground Street Suzanne Street and Terrell PLAYFIELDS Lipke Park Street Shoenherr Street and State Wish Egan Playfi eld Fair Street East French Road and Mt. Olivet Fletcher Playground Street Ford Brush Park lakewood at Detroit River Avondale Street and Maheras Memorial Playground Conner Street Averhill Court and Piper Hansen Playground Blvd. Parkgrove Street and Optimist Playground Teppert Street East Jefferson Avenue and Gabriel Richard Park East Grand Blvd. Jefferson Avenue East and Owen Park Iroquois Street Jefferson Avenue East and Burns Drive Fischer Street Jefferson Avenue East and Waterworks Park Cadillac Blvd. Corner Street and Mack Manz Field Avenue

RECREATION CENTERS Butzel Family Recreation Ctr 7737 Kercheval Street Wayne County 4-H Community Center 5710 McClellan Street Lipke Recreation Ctr 19320 Van Dyke Street Brewer Recreational Center Kercheval St. and Cadillac 4535 Fairview (Warren and Chandler Park Golf Course/Chandler Park 852-4863 Canfi eld) HUMAN SERVICE Samaritan Center 5555 Conner Street 48213 Not available ORGANIZATIONS Black Family Development 5555 Conner Street 48213 308-0255 Convenant House of Michigan 5555 7600 Goegthe Street 48213 923-0219

75 Michigan Works-Detroit 5555 Conner Street 48213 924-7860 Sero Metro-Detroit 5555 Conner Street 48213 579-4900 The Healing Place of Detroit 5555 Conner Street 48213 Not available Wings of Faith Walk 5555 Conner Street 48213 579-5972 Detroit East Community Mental Health 7737 Kercheval Street 48214 921-1150 Center Don Bosco Hall 8141 East Outer Drive 48213 527-2900 1333 Brewery Park Detroit Meals on Wheels 48207 964-6325 Boulevard #200 Federation of Youth Services 548 East Grand Boulevard 48207 571-4707 Helping Unite Mothers & Children 571 East Grand Boulevard 48207 922-6600 Food Bank of Southeastern Michigan 2131 Beaufait Street 48207 923-2552 Innercity Outreach Mission 17121 Runyon Street 48234 371-6511 Inner City Sub Center Project of Detroit 8411 East Forest Avenue 48214 921-0200 Inc. 8131 East Jefferson Lutheran Social Services of Michigan 48214 823-7700 Avenue Lutheran Social Services Child and Family 8131 East Jefferson 48214 823-7303 Services Avenue Mtnebo Resource Center 18403 Ryan Road 48234 368-6266 Neighborhood Service Organization- 9641 Harper Avenue 48213 923-5051 Harper Gratiot Multi-Service Center Open Arms 11148 Harper Avenue 48213 921-7983 Parental Insight Inc, 3451 Iroquois Street 48214 579-2477 Prudential Protective Services 6445 East Hildale Street 48234 893-9670 Queen’s Community Workers 12579 Harper Avenue 48213 526-5212 Reach Project 7737 Kercheval Street 48214 924-0805 Safe Center 11241 Gunston Street 48213 839-6664 Second Harvest Food Bank 2131 Beaufait Street 48207 923-7855 2650 Dickerson Street Wolverine Human Services 48215 822-2400

Wolverine Human Services (Victors Ctr.) 1200 Alter Road 48215 822-2070 Warren Conner Development Coalition 11148 Harper Avenue 48213 571-2800

76 Appendix D: Schools Offering After-School Programs

School Address Phone # Program

A.L. Holmes Elementary School 8950 Crane Street, Detroit, MI (313) 866-5644 Tutorial, everyday Blackwell Institute 9330 Shoemaker, Detroit, MI (313) 866-4391 Variety, daily 3:15-6 Brewer Elementary School 12450 Hayes Street, Detroit, MI (313) 866-0404 Tutorial, M,T,&Th 3:30-5 Bunche Elementary School 2601 Ellery Street, Detroit, MI (313) 866-7926 Tutorial, M-Th 3:30-6:30 Chandler Park Academy-Philip 897 Philip Avenue, Detroit, MI (313) 821-2552 Variety, daily 3:30-4:30 Cooper Elementary School 6836 Georgia Street, Detroit, MI (313) 866-8050 Tutorial, 4-5:30 Denby High School 12800 Kelly Road, Detroit, MI (313) 866-7200 Variety, daily 4-6:30 or 7 Detroit Academy of Arts and Sci- ences 2985 East Jefferson Avenue, Detroit (313) 259-1744 Variety, daily 3:30-6 Detroit School of Industrial Arts 11406 Morang Drive, Detroit, MI (313) 839-1883 Tutorial, W 3-3:30 Duffi eld Elementary School 2715 Macomb Street, Detroit, MI (313) 494-8350 Variety, M-Th 2:30-5:30 Fleming Elementary School 18501 Waltham Street, Detroit, MI (313)852-8557 Tutorial, daily 4:30-5:30 Heilmann Middle School 15491 Maddelein St (313)866-7233 Variety, M-Th 3-6 Golightly Career and Technical Center 900 Dickerson Avenue, Detroit, MI (313)822-8820 Joy Middle School 4611 Fairview Street, Detroit, MI (313)866-9900 Variety, Daily 3-4:30 Kettering High School 6101 Van Dyke Avenue, Detroit, MI (313)866-5336 Tutorial Osborn High School 11600 East 7 Mile Road, Detroit, MI (313)866-0343 Variety Duke Ellington Conservatory of Music 8030 East Outer Drive, Detroit, MI 313) 866-2860 Variety Pershing High School 18875 Ryan Road, Detroit, MI (313)866-7700 Variety Pulaski Elementary School 19725 Strasburg Street, Detroit, MI (313)866-7022 Variety, M-Th 4-6 or 7 Richard Elementary School 13840 Lappin Street, Detroit, MI (313)245-3581 Southeastern High School 3030 Fairview Street, Detroit, MI (313)866-4500 Variety Spain Elementary School 3700 Beaubien Street, Detroit, MI (313)494-2081 Vincent Academy 7600 Goethe, Detroit, MI (313) 866-9621 Van Zile Elementary School 2915 East Outer Drive, Detroit, MI (313)368-8444 Benjamin East Mayes Male Acad- emy 3544 Iroquois, Detroit, MI (313) 924-0014 Variety Bethany Lutheran School 11475 East Outer Drive, Detroit, MI (313) 885-0180 Variety Detroit Waldrof School 2555 Burns Avenue, Detroit, MI (313) 822-0300 Variety Cornerstone School 6861 East Nevada, Detroit, MI (313) 892-1860 Variety Fairview Christian School P.O. Box 05769, Detroit, MI (313) 839-4400 East Bethlehem Lutheran School 3510 East Outer Drive, Detroit, MI (313) 892-2671 Mt. Calvary Lutheran School 17100 Chalmers, Detroit, MI (313) 527-3366 People’s Baptist Christian 3000 Mc Dougall Street, Detroit, MI (313) 579-2034 Variety Regina High School 20200 Kelly Road, Harper Woods, MI (313) 526-0220 St. Jude School 15865 East Seven Mile, Detroit, MI (313) 839-6792

77 APPENDIX E: TRANSIT COVERAGE TABLE Bus Line Number # of Bus Stops by Bus Line

Route 7: Cadillac-Harper 64 Route 8: Caniff 72 Route 9: Chalmers 79 Route 10: Chene 40 Route 11: Clairmount 67 Route 12: Conant 43 Route 13: Conner 114 Route 14: Crosstown 64 Route 17: Eight Mile 25 Route 20: Grand Belt 42 Route 24: Holbrook 18 Route 25: Jefferson 60 Route 31: Mack 54 Route 32: Mc Nichols 68 Route 34: Gratiot 73 Route 38: Plymouth 69 Route 40: Russel 14 Route 45: Seven Mile 45 Route 48: VanDyke-LaFayette 110 Route 49: Vernor 56 Route 76: Hayes Limited 33

78 APPENDIX F: RECOMMENDED LIGHTING CHART

Area/Activity Outdoor Facilities Lux Footcandles Walkways and Bikeways Along Roadside Commerical Areas 10 0.9 Industrial Areas 5 0.5 Residential Areas 2 0.2 Distant from Roadside 5 0.5 Park Walkways 5 0.5 Pedestrian Tunnels 20 2 Pedestrian Overpass 2 0.2 Pedestrian Stairways Light Surfaces 200 20 Dark Surfaces 500 50 Gardens General Lighting 5 0.5 Path 10 1 Flower Beds 50 5 Trees, Shrubs 50 5 Focal Points (Large) 100 10 Focal Points (Small) 200 20 Playground Baseball Infi eld 150 15 Outfi eld 100 10 Football Class IV (<5000 spectators) 200 20 Class V (no fi xed seating) 100 10 Other Sports Facilities Handball/Raquetball 100 10 Hockey 100 10 Ice Skating Rink 50 5 Tennis 100 10 Volleyball 100 10

79 APPENDIX G: SURFACING TYPOLOGY

Surfaces Dimensions Uses

*Primary 10’ wide paved trail; asphalt paving is Mixed bicycle and pedestrian Greenway typical traffi c, main trails 10’ Paved Trail • 2’ shoulder each side • 10’ vertical clearance • Selective clearing – 5’ beyond each side of trail • Desired maximum slope 5% except where terrain makes this impractical • Meet AASHTO & ADA standards

*Type 8: Sidewalk Standard 5’ concrete sidewalk – existing Connections between main Connectors or newly implemented greenway trail segments • 5’ setback from back of curb typical where no other connection can • 2’ graded shoulder along outside edge be made • Minimum 8’ vertical clearance • Colored concrete panels, 30’ on center, used to identify sidewalk as part of the greenway system • Signage used to further identify sidewalk as part of the greenway system

Secondary • 8’ wide asphalt trail Minor/short connections to Greenway • 2’ shoulder each side main trail; areas of diffi cult 8’ Paved Trail • Selective clearing – 5’ from edge of terrain; primarily pedestrian trail each side use; bicycle use limited to • Maximum slope – 8 access to main trail

Soft Surface • 10’-12’ wide trail, stone screenings Bicycle, mountain bikes, Greenway surface equestrian and pedestrian • 3’-5’ graded shoulders traffi c • 10’ vertical clearance • 5’ horizontal clearance on each side of trail • 2-5% slope preferred, 10% maximum slope; provide drainage measures to minimize erosion

* Recommended Surfacing for Conner Creek Greenway Source: Cary Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Facilities Master Plan

80 APPENDIX H: URBAN GREENWAY PRECEDENTS TABLE Name: The Battle Creek Linear Manhattan Waterfront Grand Rounds National Scenic Park Greenway Byway

Location: Battle Creek, MI New York, NY Minneapolis, MN Length: 17+ miles 32 miles 50.1 miles total, 1.2 miles in Downtown Riverfront

Setting: Wooded areas, open The circumfrence of A dozen lakes and ponds, four fi elds, parks, & commer- Manhattan island with golf courses, two waterfalls, natu- cial areas river views. Goes through ral and planned gardens, creek many parks and attrac- and river views, and downtown tions such as bridges. views On and off-street Surface: Varies Signage, Historical, cultural, and Logos, directional arrow, “Interpretive Sites,” discovery Mile Mark- point of interest signs, and pavement markings, sec- areas where the public will have ers & Am- there are marker posts-to tions have mile markers opportunities to experience inter- menities: measure progress in miles and historical/cultural pretation programs and exhibits, or kilometers. The linear signs as well as Interpretive and Infor- park has multiple access mation Centers points, and two convenient parking lots within parks. Hours: Sunrise to sunset Dogs: Dog-friendly Cool Fact: The signs and signposts Part of the effort to are made from recycled reclaim public access milk jugs, collected by to New York City’s 578 elementary school children miles of waterfront. in the Battle Creek Public School System

Information: Battle Creek Parks & http://www.nyc.gov/html/ http://www.minneapolisparks. Recreation Department dcp/html/mwg/mwghome. org/grandrounds/home.htm 269.966.3431 shtml

81 Monon Trail (part of Indy Fred Marquis Pinellas Chattanooga/Hamilton Calgary’s Pathways Greenways) Trail County Tennessee River Walk Indianapolis, IN Pinellas County, FL Chattanooga, TN Calgary, Alberta, Canada Monon Trail is 10.5 miles, 47 miles 13 open to the public, 635 km of pathways and the greenway system will will be 22 miles when 260 km of on-street bike- eventually include more completed ways than 175 miles of trails in Indianapolis/Marion County Commercial districts, Mix of urban and open Along the Tennessee Varies schools, parks, the state parkland River, through down- fairgrounds, a dozen resi- town, parkland dential neighborhoods, and direct links to other trails 15 ft wide asphalt Concrete Asphalt Periodic benches, shel- More than 750 signs tered benches, water along the pathways fountains, bicycle racks, sheltered tables, litter re- ceptacles, mileage mark- ers, and Trail locator maps are located along the length of the Trail. Sunrise to sunset Dog-friendly The Trail crosses 88 Goes across the Calgary has most ex- streets, and is fully ac- Walnut Street Bridge tensive urban pathway cessible at most of these (the longest pedestrian and bikeway network in intersections, as well as bridge in the world) North America and snow special spurs which con- is cleared from 95 km of nect the Trail to public pathway in the winter to destinations and areas. ensure all-season access. Some organizations have not only land- scaped the Trail in their area, but added murals, paintings, and other aes- thetic venues. http://www.indygreen- http://www.pps.org/gps/ http://www.tpl.org/ http://www.calgary. ways.org/index.html one?public_place_id=63 tier3_cd.cfm?content_ ca/portal/server.pt/ item_id=1179&folder_ gateway/PTARGS_ id=670 0_2_780_247_0_43/ http%3B/content.calgary. ca/CCA/City+Living/ Parks+and+Cemeteries/ Pathways/ Calgarys+Pathways.htm

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