Antonio McDuffy Park

Project Overview

WATCH LOCAL NEWS COVERAGE OF RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY

Detroit’s Antonio McDuffy Park (formerly Philadelphia Park), located in the city’s New Center Historic District, will receive a facelift this summer. The park serves as an important community gathering space for residents of the Piety Hill neighborhood. It was re-named for Tony McDuffy, a beloved neighborhood resident who was a tireless advocate for the community.

The renovation work will double the size of the park, to about 1.5 acres, as the city recently acquired adjacent lots from both the CDCCDC and private property owners. Demolition of a vacated alley and grading work will extend the park at the corner of W. Philadelphia St. and 3^rd Ave. West toward W. Euclid St.

Preliminary survey work on the project was completed this year, but the bulk of the work was delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The work is scheduled to take place in early summer 2021.

The project will include a new 1/8-mile concrete walkway, a new inclusive playground, new picnic tables, grills, bike racks, benches and a horseshoe pit. Additionally, new trees will be planted and an open grass play area will be created.

Project EverGreen and the Rocket Community Fund plan to work with the city to identify additional park renovation projects in the city in 2021 and beyond.

“Parks play a vital role in the health and well-being of youth and adults alike; a fact never more evident than during the pandemic. Connecting people to their parks enhances social well-being, relationships and environmental health,” said Code. “Together with Rocket Community Fund’s generous grant and in collaboration with the City of Detroit, local businesses and the residents of Piety Hill, we can create a healthy, thriving park for generations to come.”

Additional sponsors and supporters of the project include the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, Magna/Magna Seating, Premier Group Associates, PEA Group, The Davey Tree Expert Co. and Green Acres Tree Farm & Re-Tree, LLC.

Why Are Green Spaces Important to Detroit?

Green spaces are important to Detroit for several reasons:

• Environmental benefits: Green spaces can help reduce air pollution, absorb carbon dioxide, and reduce the urban heat island effect. They also provide habitats for wildlife and help maintain biodiversity.
• Health benefits: Access to green spaces has been shown to improve mental health, reduce stress, and promote physical activity. In a city like Detroit, where many residents live in areas with limited access to fresh food and safe outdoor spaces, green spaces can provide important opportunities for exercise and recreation.
• Economic benefits: Green spaces can increase property values and attract businesses, tourists, and new residents to the area. This can lead to increased economic activity and job creation.
• Community engagement: Green spaces can provide a gathering place for community events and activities, fostering a sense of community and social cohesion.

In recent years, Detroit under Mayor Duggan has experienced a revitalization of its green spaces, including the development of urban gardens, parks, and greenways. These initiatives have helped to address the city’s environmental, health, and economic challenges while also promoting community engagement and improving quality of life for residents.

Project EverGreen, its volunteers and donors are proud to help make parks and green spaces in Detroit more accessible to residents and contribute to improving the environmental, health and economic benefits that everyone can enjoy.

Photo Credits: Premier Group Associates and Aaron Dawson