Monroe, Michigan returns to the river
Revitalization efforts along River Raisin has brought economic and recreation opportunities to the community of Monroe, Mich. (Photo provided)
Monroe revitalization
“Today, the city is placing great resources and emphasis to reclaim the benefit of the river running through our city,” Cochran said.
Dubbed “Resilient Monroe,” the new downtown master plan calls for a half-mile extension to the existing Riverwalk from downtown to the Sterling State Park and the River Raisin National Battlefield Park.
“As Michigan’s third oldest community, Monroe has an abundance of historic buildings, structure and sites that define its identity and character,” he said. “Our downtown features many historic buildings with charm and great potential for redevelopment. We are experiencing a resurgence in interest from retail and restaurants gradually improving place and the night life.”
Monroe’s Loranger Square is the heart of the city’s central business district and features a historic courthouse and church as well as a pavilion, lotus fountain, library, city hall and statues remembering historic figures in the city’s history.
Monroe also boasts three historic districts that date back to its founding in 1817.
“The city of Monroe has one of the most comprehensive rosters of extant 19th century domestic architectural styles in the state,” Cochran added.
The old and dilapidated factories along the river have been demolished and remediated to recognize the history that took place along its banks.
With a renewed interest for gathering places along the river, restaurants are locating there and building outdoor spaces for enjoying the river’s ambiance.
Bringing people back to the river’s banks involves not just retail and restaurants, but housing, which Cochran described as the “missing middle,” that is, infilling the existing neighborhoods with residential development such as lofts, townhouses and flats that have increased demand in the real estate market.
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