Nearly $20 million in improvements will bring new playgrounds, trails, sports courts and gathering spaces to neighborhoods across the city.

Detroit residents will soon have more places to play, exercise, gather and enjoy nature as major improvements move forward at 11 neighborhood parks.

The City is investing $19.85 million across the projects, which range from new playgrounds and walking paths to a BMX bike park, expanded green space and better connections to surrounding neighborhoods. Some improvements were completed this summer, while others will begin construction later this year or in 2027.

The upgrades were shaped through community engagement with the block clubs, neighborhood associations, schools, businesses and organizations that use the parks.

“Strong, vibrant neighborhoods are ones that have convenient access to high-quality parks,” Mayor Mary Sheffield said. “As my administration continues to focus on neighborhood-level investment, improving our network of neighborhood parks is going to be an important part of this work, to improve the quality of life for longtime Detroiters.”

Here’s what residents can expect.

More accessible places for children to play

Several projects are designed to create more inclusive and age-appropriate play spaces.

At Eliza Howell Park in District 1, a new nature play area will be accessible to children with disabilities and their caregivers. Construction on the $1 million project is expected to begin this fall.

Hasse Emery Park in District 3 will receive a toddler-focused playground and “tot town,” offering a play space designed specifically for younger children.

Heilmann Park, also in District 3, will gain accessible play features, exercise equipment and new basketball and tennis courts. The improvements will also create a stronger connection between the nearby school and recreation center.

New ways to get outside and stay active

The improvements will expand recreational options beyond traditional playgrounds and sports fields.

Dorais Park in District 3 is being transformed into Detroit’s first BMX bike and nature park. The $1.5 million project will include multi-use trails and is expected to be completed this fall.

At Farwell Park, residents can now use more than a mile of improved asphalt pathways, including a large walking loop. The completed $2 million project also includes tennis court improvements and a new playground.

Peterson Park in District 2 reopened in July with a nature play area, splash pad, playground, picnic tables and an updated tennis court.

Jayne-Lasky Park in District 3 is being planned to include a multi-sport court and improved connections around the Lasky Recreation Center. Construction is expected to begin in spring 2027.

Bigger and better neighborhood gathering spaces

Some projects will significantly expand the role parks play as gathering places.

MLK Park in District 5 is set to triple in size through a $2.5 million renovation and expansion. The project will add a playground, parking, horseshoe area, picnic amenities, seating, trees and landscaping while preserving and honoring the history of MLK Plaza.

Cass Park in District 6 will receive improved walkways and a new plaza connecting the park with the neighboring high school. Plans also include a new “chill zone” where students and other residents can gather.

Simanek Park in District 7 is undergoing a complete $3 million renovation featuring a nature play area, sports fields, playgrounds, shelters and stormwater management improvements. Construction is expected to be completed in summer 2027.

Better connections between parks and neighborhoods

Several projects are designed to make parks easier to reach and better connected to the communities around them.

At Patton Park in District 6, the Joe Louis Greenway route will be built through the park, creating new connections to adjacent neighborhoods. Construction on the $2.3 million project is expected to begin in spring 2027.

Heilmann, Jayne-Lasky and Cass parks will also receive improved paths and plazas connecting their recreational spaces with nearby schools, recreation centers and community destinations.

When residents will see the improvements

Two projects—Peterson Park and Farwell Park—were completed in July 2026. Construction is currently underway or expected to be completed this fall at Dorais, Heilmann and Simanek parks.

Other projects remain in planning, bidding or approval stages, with construction expected to begin between fall 2026 and spring 2027.

Funding for the improvements comes from a combination of City funds, state and federal grants, the Strategic Neighborhood Fund and philanthropic partners, including the Gilbert Family Foundation.

Together, the projects will give more Detroit residents access to high-quality recreational spaces close to home—and introduce new ways for people of different ages and abilities to enjoy their neighborhood parks.