The Next Step in the Evolution of Detroit's Waterfront

A groundbreaking ceremony for Atwater Beach on Detroit's east waterfront is just one of many ongoing construction projects that will add open space and recreation facilities to formerly industrial areas.

1 minute read

August 29, 2018, 12:00 PM PDT

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell


Detroit Waterfront Project

Groundswell Design Group / Detroit Riverfront Conservancy

"The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy broke ground Monday afternoon on Atwater Beach, the latest addition to the city's waterfront attractions," reports John Gallagher.

Atwater beach will include a sandy beach, play areas, and food and drink retail, including a floating "café barge" serving food and drinks. 

"The 3.2-acre site of Atwater Beach was once occupied by a cement company and most recently was used by authorities to store marine buoys," according to Gallagher, who then puts the changes at Atwater Beach in context of the larger evolution of Detroit's waterfront from it's industrial past to a recreational future. "Besides Atwater Beach, other projects in the works include the 22-acre west riverfront park that is currently being planned and an extension of the RiverWalk across the former industrial zone known as the Uniroyal site adjacent to the MacArthur Bridge to Belle Isle," according to Gallagher.

Monday, August 27, 2018 in Detroit Free Press

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

July 2, 2025 - Mother Jones

Close-up of park ranger in green jacket and khaki hat looking out at Bryce Canyon National Park red rock formations.

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions

Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

February 18, 2025 - National Parks Traveler

Paved walking path next to canal in The Woodlands, Texas with office buildings in background.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50

A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

February 19, 2025 - Greg Flisram

Screenshot of shade map of Buffalo, New York with legend.

Test News Post 1

This is a summary

0 seconds ago - 2TheAdvocate.com

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

18 minutes ago - Mother Jones

test alt text

Test News Headline 46

Test for the image on the front page.

March 5 - Cleantech blog