Northwest Wayne News

Mayor Mike Duggan, along with community partners and residents, gathered at Balduck Park on Detroit’s east side to celebrate the completion of $1.5 million in renovations to the park. The project was made possible through funding from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan’s Strategic Neighborhood Fund investment and President Biden’s American Rescue Plan Act.

In his address at the celebration, Mayor Duggan expressed gratitude towards the contributors, stating, “Thanks to Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and President Biden’s American Rescue Plan Act, we have been able to make the beautiful renovations you see today, which will be enjoyed for generations to come.”

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan President and CEO Daniel J. Loepp highlighted the significance of the park to the community, saying, “Balduck Park, in many ways, serves as the recreational epicenter of this community. Our company’s partnerships with local businesses, residents and the city have been key to adding vibrancy to the East Warren/Cadieux neighborhood.”

Detroit Chief Operating Officer Brad Dick also praised the enhancements made to the park, particularly to Community Hill, stating, “The most famous aspect of the park is Community Hill, which has now been enhanced thanks to the wonderful support of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.”

Council Member Latisha Johnson, who has been involved in enhancing Balduck Park for years, shared her sentiments, saying, “Balduck Park is a special place for me...The funders and the city of Detroit's General Services Department have done a marvelous job transforming this park into a jewel of which we can all be proud.”

The renovations at Balduck Park included improved park entries and signage, new walkways, upgrades to the playground, a picnic shelter, a dog park, and enhancements to Community Hill for sledding. Additionally, 92 trees were planted, and infrastructure improvements were made to address chronic flooding issues in the park's south end.

Balduck Park received funding from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan's Strategic Neighborhood Fund for enhancements to the sledding hill, South playground, and dog park, while the American Rescue Plan Act facilitated the completion of the remaining work, focusing on improved connectivity and pathways throughout the park.

The Strategic Neighborhood Fund, launched in 2017 by Mayor Duggan, aims to improve parks, streetscapes, commercial corridors, and single-family housing in Detroit, guided by residents’ input to shape the future of their neighborhoods.

In addition to Balduck Park, the SNF has supported various projects in the East Warren/Cadieux neighborhood, including The Ribbon, Terri’s Cakes, and a new streetscape development. Future projects, such as The Deco and the Arthur Murray, are planned to bring affordable housing and retail space to the area.

The revitalization of Balduck Park stands as a testament to the ongoing commitment to enhancing Detroit’s recreational spaces and fostering community well-being.