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Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park Opens This Weekend on Detroit’s West Riverfront

Backed by a $40 million gift, the park anchors Detroit’s riverfront revitalization.

Overview

  • Public opening runs Oct. 25–26 alongside Detroit Harvest Fest, with The Jacksons scheduled Saturday and family activities both days.
  • A new Riverwalk boardwalk by Riverfront Towers and Water Square debuts with the park, extending pedestrian connections and linking to the Southwest Greenway.
  • The 22-acre site unveils four zones: Delta Dental Play Garden, Huron-Clinton Metroparks Water Garden, DTE Foundation Summit, and the William Davidson Sport House with two full-size Pistons-partnered basketball courts.
  • The project was led by the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy with input from a West Riverfront Community Advisory Team and major support from the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation, including $40 million for construction and $10 million for sustainability.
  • An interactive water-play feature is slated to open in spring 2026, with winter uses such as sledding planned on the Summit’s grassy hill.