Since 2003, the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy has worked to transform the riverfront into a beautiful, safe, and accessible space for all to enjoy. We celebrate important moments from the past as we continue working towards the future of the riverfront.
2025
Ralph C. Wilson Park to open
2024
Construction continues on the 22-acre Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Park on the West Riverfront. This park is scheduled to open in the fall of 2025.
2023
The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy celebrates their 20th Anniversary, opens the Southwest Greenway and completes the East Riverfront. The Detroit Riverwalk once again voted Best in the US by USA Today.
2022
The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy breaks ground on Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park (formerly West Riverfront Park) and the Southwest Greenway. The Detroit Riverwalk voted Best in the US for the second year in a row.
2021
Best in the Country
The Detroit Riverwalk is voted best in the country by USA Today.
2020
The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy opens the Dennis Archer Greenway in partnership with the City of Detroit, and breaks ground on the last phase of the East Riverfront across the former Uniroyal Tire factory site.
2019
Robert C. Valade Park opens, named in celebration of Detroit native and former Carhartt, Inc. Chairman and CEO, Robert C. Valade.
2018
Rivard Plaza is renamed Cullen Plaza, thanks to a major gift from Matt and Karen Cullen, and the Dequindre Cut Freight Yard opens.
2016
The second segment of the Dequindre Cut is complete, connecting the Riverfront to Eastern Market.
2014
The transformation of Mt. Elliott Park is complete and opens to the public, including the Gilbert Family Schooner Splash Pad.
2009
The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy opens Gabriel Richard Park and the first segment of the Dequindre Cut is complete.
2007
Our First Park
The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy opens its first park, Rivard Plaza, and unveils the iconic Cullen Family Carousel.
2004
General Motors donates the first half mile of the Riverwalk and invests an additional $25 million into its waterfront renovations at the Renaissance Center, including the building of GM Plaza.
2003
Our Founding
Kresge, General Motors, and the City of Detroit come together to found the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, with the mission of transforming Detroit’s international riverfront into a beautiful, exciting, safe, accessible world-class gathering place for all.