Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park to Open in Detroit in Late October

August 14, 2025

The $75 million Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park is set to open in Detroit on October 25-26, 2023, after three and a half years of construction, creating a 22-acre riverfront destination.

Who is affected

Detroit residents and visitors who will gain access to the new 22-acre park
Communities along the Detroit riverfront who will benefit from increased public access
People who use the RiverWalk for recreation, as they'll now have nearly five miles of uninterrupted pathway
Walkers, runners, and cyclists who will utilize the expanded greenway network
Families and children who will use the recreational facilities, including the basketball courts and playground
Event attendees who will participate in programming at the park's various venues

What action is being taken

Construction of the final elements of the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park is being completed ahead of the October opening
The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy is organizing a grand opening celebration for October 25-26 that will incorporate elements of their Harvest Fest
Contractors are finishing the remaining 10% of the park, including planting around the water garden and installing a Detroit Pistons-branded court floor
The Conservancy is currently raising $25 million to satisfy the loan guarantee provided during the financial emergency
A new boardwalk running 17 feet from the water's edge is being completed in front of Riverfront Towers

Why it matters

The park represents a significant step toward the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy's vision of 5.5 miles of continuous public access along the riverfront
It transforms formerly inaccessible industrial land into public space for recreation and community gathering
The project features work from internationally acclaimed architects, bringing architectural distinction to Detroit's public spaces
The park provides year-round recreational opportunities with spaces that adapt to seasonal activities
It connects multiple neighborhoods and extends Detroit's greenway network, improving mobility through the city
The development reclaims riverfront access in a city where such access was historically limited by industry, freeways, and disinvestment

What's next

Following the park's debut, approximately two-thirds of a mile of the RiverWalk will still need to be completed to the west, linking Rosa Parks Boulevard to Riverside Park near the Ambassador Bridge
The grand opening weekend on October 25-26 will feature food trucks, live music, and seasonal activities
The park will host regular community events and programming in its various venues
Winter activities will begin once the season changes, with the water garden transforming into an ice-skating space and the DTE Foundation Summit being used for sledding

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle