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Transforming Detroit’s Landscape: Gilbert Family Foundation Commits $15 Million to the Unified Greenway Campaign

In a bold stride towards revitalizing Detroit’s urban landscape, the Gilbert Family Foundation has pledged a remarkable $15 million to the Unified Greenway Campaign. This commitment marks a significant milestone for the campaign, which aims to raise a total of $350 million to complete the world-class Detroit Riverfront and the sprawling 27.5-mile Joe Louis Greenway. The recent wave of support has brought the campaign’s funding to an impressive $229 million, fostering hope and excitement for a future Detroit that embraces opportunity, equity, and natural beauty.

The Detroit Riverfront has long stood as a symbol of the city’s rich history and potential for transformation. With the infusion of the Gilbert Family Foundation’s substantial contribution, the dream of a revitalized waterfront is edging closer to reality. The newly opened Southwest Greenway, which connects the Detroit Riverfront with Michigan Central, Corktown, and the Southwest Detroit neighborhoods, embodies the essence of this transformation. This enchanting green corridor not only enriches the city’s aesthetics but also creates increased accessibility for its residents, inviting them to partake in the scenic beauty that Detroit has to offer.

The recent surge in support for the Unified Greenway Campaign paints a promising picture for Detroit’s future. The campaign’s drive to secure more than $70 million in new funding showcases the unwavering commitment of organizations such as the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation, William Davidson Foundation, W.K. Kellogg Foundation, and the Hudson-Webber Foundation. Their dedication echoes the sentiment that a vibrant and equitable city emerges from communal effort and shared vision.

The significance of the City of Detroit’s commitment should not be understated either. The pledge of $6 million annually to sustain the operations and maintenance of the Detroit Riverfront and Joe Louis Greenway solidifies the city’s intention to nurture these spaces for generations to come. This promise demonstrates a profound understanding that the investment in public spaces is an investment in the city’s soul, providing opportunities for community gatherings, recreation, and fostering a sense of belonging.

The Unified Greenway Campaign transcends the realm of infrastructure and finance; it encapsulates the spirit of Detroit’s resurgence. It’s a testament to the unwavering determination of its residents and philanthropic entities who envision a Detroit that thrives on diversity, equity, and the coexistence of urban and natural landscapes. The infusion of the Gilbert Family Foundation’s $15 million is not merely a monetary gesture but an endorsement of this vision and a catalyst for further transformation.

As Detroit’s horizon continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the Unified Greenway Campaign is not merely constructing public spaces; it’s crafting a narrative of unity, rejuvenation, and empowerment. With every dollar raised and every milestone achieved, the campaign breathes life into Detroit’s potential, reminding us all that a city’s true worth lies in the well-being and vitality of its people.

By: Lynzee Mychael

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Suzanne Perreault

Program Officer

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Suzanne Perreault is a Program Officer at the William Davidson Foundation and part of the Southeast Michigan Economic & Cultural Vitality team, leading the Foundation’s Good Jobs portfolio.  Suzanne is a highly accomplished leader in economic development with a distinguished career focused on fostering inclusive entrepreneurship across Michigan. She plays a key role in the development, refinement, and stewardship of grants and related strategies that support entrepreneurs and stimulates the creation, growth, and retention of new businesses in metropolitan Detroit. Suzanne excels in building collaborative partnerships and is committed to driving good jobs and promoting growth in vital industries to improve the livelihoods of individuals and families throughout the region.

Prior to joining the William Davidson Foundation, Suzanne served as the Director of Small Business Services at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, where she was instrumental in developing and managing innovative programming, overseeing an $80 million portfolio of small business support contracts, and leveraged data-driven insights to support the launch, stabilization, and growth of microenterprises, place-based and early-stage businesses statewide.  

Suzanne brings small business and community development experience to her role at WDF having held other key roles including Vice President at Mercantile Events & Marketing, an industry leader in retail and consumer-based events, where she led implementation of the business’s strategic plan – achieving growth and enhancing profitability.  She served as Executive Director of the Downtown Development Authority in both Lake Orion, MI and Holly, MI, and led downtown revitalization efforts, managing a variety of initiatives including capital improvements, real estate development, and placemaking projects.  Suzanne is a Certified Economic Development Finance Professional and holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Public Administration from Central Michigan University.