Detroit Unveils $11.9m Revamped A.B. Ford Park With Fresh Recreation Spots

Workers just wrapped up a major transformation at A.B. Ford Park on Detroit's east side. The $11.9 million project turned 34 acres into a new community space, paid for by federal rescue funds and neighborhood money.

"This center represents a new era for our community," said a city official according to Click on Detroit. "When a center comes up, and a community comes together, that means everybody involved with this community will also thrive."

Kids can now play at two new playgrounds. Adults might prefer the waterfront plaza or fitness zone. Basketball players got their court. Families can gather to eat and rest at picnic spots. The ground's better too - workers planted 500 trees and brought in clean soil.

Nothing much happened at the park between 2020 and the start of work. Then in 2023, a new community center showed up - the first sign of change.

Brenda Wilson-Watson, who lives nearby, couldn't hide her joy. "We haven't had one of these for decades, and we had to go so far away to go to a park, so this means a lot to the community. I'm gonna tell you, guaranteed, they're going to enjoy this."

The site holds secrets from its past life as a Cold War radar station. Those old towers still stand watch, soon to wear new art in spring 2026.

For Jarel Mills, who grew up in the area and helped shape the new design, this means more than just a park. "Being able to be a part of deciding what your neighborhood, what your parks look like, it's a very exciting experience, and then to see it all come to fruition and be able to see my kids come out and enjoy it is an awesome experience."

Anyone curious about what's new can check the city's website for details.