Re-imagining the Urban Greenway: An Alternative Transportation Strategy and Vacant Land Use Plan for the Woodbridge Neighborhood of Detroit

Abstract

The Woodbridge neighborhood lies two miles from downtown Detroit and is home to a diverse community of students, artists, young professionals, families, and empty nesters. In February 2008, participating Woodbridge residents completed a community design process led by the Detroit Collaborative Design Center (DCDC) that resulted in a master plan and development strategy to guide future growth in the neighborhood. Our master’s practicum was to further develop the design of a greenway through the Woodbridge neighborhood and plan a system of bike routes that connected the neighborhood to local and regional biking and greenway efforts. Research strategies included a literature review regarding greenway history and benefits, previous local attempts at greenways, design elements, site inventory and analysis, and a community meeting and survey tool. Observations conclude the neighborhood infrastructure emphasizes vehicular traffic and lacks pedestrian elements, and residents appreciate the naturalistic areas of the neighborhood but desired more recreational amenities. The Woodbridge Neighborhood Greenway and Bike Plan Design Guide is a booklet that communicates the design intent, program and features to community members and to the client, Woodbridge Neighborhood Development Corporation. The Design Guide strives to improve and enhance the pedestrian and non-motorized transportation experience throughout the Woodbridge neighborhood, connecting it to local amenities and greenways, and identifying it as a unique community within the City of Detroit.