Detroit, Michigan, October 16, 2025
A.B. Ford Park, a 34-acre green space on Detroit’s east Riverfront, has reopened following a $12 million renovation and cleanup. The project replaced contaminated soil, planted over 500 trees, and rebuilt park infrastructure to improve public access. A new 8,600-square-foot solar-powered community center features a living room/library area, multipurpose kitchen lab, meeting spaces and a large event room with river views. Outdoor upgrades include a riverwalk, waterfront plaza, two playgrounds, picnic shelters, fitness equipment and a basketball court, creating a revitalized community hub for residents and visitors.
Detroit’s A.B. Ford Park Reopens After $12 Million Renovation
Detroit, Michigan – A.B. Ford Park, a 34-acre green space on Detroit’s east Riverfront, has reopened following a $12 million renovation and cleanup project. The revitalization enhances public access, improves infrastructure, and restores natural beauty, creating a vibrant community hub for residents and visitors alike.
Key Features of the Renovated A.B. Ford Park
- Community Center: An 8,600-square-foot facility featuring a living room/library area, multipurpose kitchen lab/classroom, community meeting spaces, and a large multipurpose recreation and event space with large windows overlooking the Detroit River and park. The center also includes a restroom accessible from outdoors.
- Outdoor Amenities: New picnic shelters and pods, two playgrounds, a riverwalk, a waterfront plaza, a fitness area, and a basketball court.
- Environmental Remediation: Removal of contaminated soil and planting of more than 500 new trees to restore the park’s natural beauty.
Background of the Renovation Project
The renovation of A.B. Ford Park was initiated to address environmental concerns and enhance recreational facilities. The project included:
- Soil Remediation: Removal of contaminated soil and replacement with clean soil to ensure safety for park users.
- Community Center Construction: Building a new, state-of-the-art, solar-powered community center to replace the outdated Lenox Center, which had been closed for nearly a decade.
- Park Redesign: Enhancing connectivity through new walkways, adding outdoor fitness equipment, playgrounds, picnic areas, and fishing spots, and restoring the waterfront to a more natural state.
The renovation was funded through a combination of the American Rescue Plan Act and the city’s Strategic Neighborhood Fund, totaling $12 million. The project aimed to create a vibrant community hub that offers recreational opportunities and environmental restoration, benefiting both residents and visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is A.B. Ford Park?
A.B. Ford Park is a 34-acre green space located on Detroit’s east Riverfront, offering recreational facilities and natural beauty to the community.
What renovations were made to A.B. Ford Park?
The $12 million renovation included the construction of a new community center, addition of outdoor amenities such as picnic shelters, playgrounds, a riverwalk, fitness area, and basketball court, and environmental remediation efforts like soil replacement and tree planting.
How was the renovation funded?
The renovation was funded through a combination of the American Rescue Plan Act and the city’s Strategic Neighborhood Fund, totaling $12 million.
When did the renovation project begin and complete?
The renovation project began in early 2024 and was completed in October 2025.
What is the significance of the new community center?
The new community center serves as a state-of-the-art, solar-powered facility, providing a space for community gatherings, events, and recreational activities, and replacing the outdated Lenox Center that had been closed for nearly a decade.
Key Features of A.B. Ford Park Renovation
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Community Center | An 8,600-square-foot facility with various amenities, including a living room/library area, multipurpose kitchen lab/classroom, community meeting spaces, and a large multipurpose recreation and event space. |
Outdoor Amenities | New picnic shelters and pods, two playgrounds, a riverwalk, a waterfront plaza, a fitness area, and a basketball court. |
Environmental Remediation | Removal of contaminated soil and planting of more than 500 new trees to restore the park’s natural beauty. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources

Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.