The current political and economic climate has made 2008 a turbulent and frustrating year for many Detroiters, including me. Detroit has made significant progress over the last few years; unfortunately, the current chaos has overshadowed these gains.
Last week, a blogger posted a quote from me, about why I returned to Detroit: “I had no intention of returning to Detroit, but then I saw the chances in the challenges.” Seeing this quote inspired me to take the after-noon off for an inspirational bike ride to see the “chances in the challenges”.
Last week, a blogger posted a quote from me, about why I returned to Detroit: “I had no intention of returning to Detroit, but then I saw the chances in the challenges.” Seeing this quote inspired me to take the after-noon off for an inspirational bike ride to see the “chances in the challenges”.
What I saw was a clear reminder of why we have good reasons to be optimistic about the future of Detroit. Below is a pictorial of my two-hour bike ride:
first floor retail space

Willys Overland Lofts
Opening August 2008
75 condos priced from $160,000 to $500,000

Rosa Park Transit Center
Opening Winter 2009

Westin Book-Cadillac Hotel and Condominiums
Opening October 1, 2008
455 room Westin Hotel
67 condos priced from $280,000 to $1,500,000

Fort Shelby Hotel and Apartments
Opening November 2008
204 room Double Tree Guest Suites
63 apartments

The Dequindre Cut
Opening late August 2008

Downtown Foodland Market - Lafayette Park
Opening October 2008

Greektown Casino Hotel
400 room hotel
Opening Winter 2009

Feel free to contact me with any questions or feedback.
Austin Black II