A new design for Detroit’s old Chinatown

February 23, 2026

Midtown Detroit, Inc. has revealed final plans for a $2. 4 million streetscape renovation of Peterboro Street that will honor the area's historic Chinatown heritage while modernizing the infrastructure.

Who is affected

Descendants of Chinese immigrants from Detroit's historic Chinatown
Current business and property owners along Peterboro Street between Cass and Second avenues
People with disabilities who currently cannot access the street
Residents and visitors to Midtown Detroit, Brush Park, and downtown Detroit
Members of the Chinatown Visioning Committee
Adjacent businesses that will receive patio seating
Chung's Cantonese restaurant and other cultural assets in the area

What action is being taken

A fundraiser is being launched to cover the remaining $1.4 million needed for the project
Midtown Detroit, Inc. plans to collaborate on cultural programming with the Chinatown Visioning Committee

Why it matters

This project addresses significant infrastructure deficiencies while preserving and celebrating an important piece of Detroit's cultural history that was nearly erased. The 2023 demolition of the Chinese Merchants Association building eliminated one of the last physical reminders of Detroit's second Chinatown, making intentional commemoration through thoughtful urban design critical for maintaining this community's legacy. The streetscape improvements will restore accessibility for people with disabilities, create public gathering spaces for cultural events and festivals, and strengthen connections between Midtown Detroit, Brush Park, and downtown. By authentically honoring the past while looking forward, the project demonstrates how cities can acknowledge displaced communities and integrate their histories into contemporary urban development.

What's next

Construction is hoped to be completed in 2027
A duplicate pagoda signpost will be built on the opposite end of Peterboro Street
Areas are being left open for future public art installations and gateway features if additional funding is secured

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com