Project EverGreen helps renovate Detroit park

DETROIT – Project managers and volunteers recently dedicated Antonio McDuffy Park after the culmination of an ambitious project to give the park a makeover.

Located in the city’s New Center Historic District, McDuffy Park (formerly Philadelphia Park) serves as a community gathering space for residents of the Piety Hill neighborhood. It was re-named for Tony McDuffy, a neighborhood resident who was an advocate for the community.

The Antonio McDuffy Park project was a collaborative effort between local business and civic organizations, neighborhood residents, Mayor Mike Duggan’s office and Project EverGreen, a national non-profit that is dedicated to revitalizing urban green spaces to create greener, healthier cooler parks.

“We bring people together to make a difference in communities. We are determined to improve neighborhood parks since they play such an important role in establishing confidence and community pride, offer an outlet for physical and mental well-being, and benefit the environment,” said Cindy Code, executive director of Project EverGreen. “It is a fitting tribute to the legacy of Tony McDuffy that this park bears his name.”

© Project EverGreen

A new 1/8-mile concrete walkway, inclusive playground, picnic tables, grills, bike racks, benches and a horseshoe pit were part of the nearly $300,000 project that will double the size of the park to about 1.5 acres. Additionally, the planting of new trees will provide needed shade and cooling in the heat of the summer, and a new open grass play area were also completed.

“I know Tony would so be amazed at what is going on here today and I want to thank all who had a part in making this happen,” said Wendy McDuffy, wife of the late Tony McDuffy, who along with her daughters and Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan cut the ceremonial ribbon.

The Rocket Community Fund provided a $280,000 grant to Project EverGreen to support the renovation.

Additional sponsors and supporters of the project include Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan; Magna/Magna Seating; Premier Group Associates; PEA Group; The Davey Tree Expert Co.; Central Detroit Christian CDC; and Re-Tree, LLC.