Detouring the D!

Fam, I’m a walker. Anybody that knows me knows that.

That’s one of the reasons why I love California so much. Especially my South Pasadena neighborhood. Because it’s very walkable.

Growing up in da D, though, walking wasn’t that much of a thing. It’s the Motor City, after all. So, just about everybody had a car — even if it was on its last wheels. (Myself included)

Biking and walking? That was just for kids. Or it was a last ditch mode of transportation, if you were grown and down on your luck.

Oh and parks? Every neighborhood had one when I was a kid. But as the city fell on hard times and dwindling municipal dollars were diverted elsewhere, those green spaces – once havens for children and families – were no longer safe to enjoy.

Over the years, I’ve gone back home to visit and care for my family, and I have to admit, spending recreational time outside in Detroit has not been at the top of my list. It was either too cold, too gray, or sometimes – keeping it real – too depressing.

But that was the Detroit of old. Now, the city has committed to invest in, create and cultivate green spaces for its residents. And on my last trip home, I made it a point to explore some with my feet.

From the Joe Louis Greenway (right in my mom’s neighborhood), to Palmer Park to the Detroit River Walk, I wandered to my heart’s content.

They were all such beautiful green spaces that promote health and fitness and foster physical activity.

I can’t wait to return to celebrate my love for walking again in my hometown. And maybe after you see my pictures, you’ll want to Detour to the D to enjoy some Motown Green Space for yourself, too!