April 20, 2016 [DETROIT]- The Dequindre Cut extension is so much more than a half-mile addition between Gratiot and Mack Avenues of the popular greenway that links the Detroit Riverfront and Eastern Market.  It is the latest accomplishment of the ambitious Link Detroit initiative that connects several destinations from throughout the community. 

The Detroit RiverFront Conservancy and its Link Detroit partners are inviting the public to help celebrate this milestone with two events that will be festive, community-focused affairs featuring something for everyone.

A formal program on Friday, April 29 at 2 p.m. will allow guests to officially recognize the opening and for representatives from those companies and organizations integral to the project to provide brief comments and to participate in a ceremonial ribbon cutting. 

Guests to a larger, community-focused celebration on Saturday, April 30 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. will find a colorful, engaging atmosphere featuring entertainment, food trucks, hands-on activities, limited giveaways and other surprises.  Local musical acts, a DJ and street performers will entertain the crowd and bicycles and Pedi Cabs will be available for a nominal cost to help visitors explore the area. 

The celebrations on both days take place at Wilkins Street Plaza, which is located in Eastern Market at the corner of Orleans and Wilkins. 

Link Detroit is a multi-modal project designed to enhance and connect existing greenways.  The project creates an accessible network of routes for cyclists and pedestrians between major destinations like Eastern Market, Hamtramck, Midtown, the Dequindre Cut and the Detroit Riverfront. 

The projects include: the extension of the Dequindre Cut from Gratiot to Mack Avenue; additional bike lanes from the end of the Dequindre Cut to Hamtramck; bridge improvements over the Dequindre Cut; additional bike lanes and a Midtown Loop path connection from Eastern Market to Midtown; and also bike lanes and streetscape enhancements on Russell Street in Eastern Market.