Detroit is home to over half a million people, serving a diverse majority-minority population. The city’s population is diverse and comprised of 78% Black or African American. Detroit has undergone many economic challenges in the previous decades but has recently seen economic investments that have transformed many buildings and neighborhoods of the city.
The city is a significant transportation hub, home to freight terminals, ports, ferries, the construction of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, and an extensive freeway system. Symptomatically, the semi-truck traffic causes adverse health and safety impacts in the community. The City of Detroit has created a series of policy and infrastructure recommendations to improve the affected communities.
The Ray and its partners helped the city of Detroit receive significant funding for infrastructure improvements. The city was awarded the BUILD grant for the Joe Louis Greenway, valued at $20 million. Additionally, $21 million in funding was awarded for fleet electrification and a junction terminal improvement project. Finally, $10 million was awarded for the Safe Streets For All Grant Program for supplemental planning activities.
The Joe Louis Greenway is a proposed 27-mile-long bike and pedestrian trail designed to encircle the city of Detroit. It will become a destination accessible to individuals of all abilities, providing a safe environment for walking, biking, and running.