Eliza Howell Park Nature Trail
Eliza Howell Park Nature Trail is one of many upcoming routes within the naturalized Eliza Howell Park, located on the far west side of Detroit. JIMA Studio lead the design and construction of this natural trail to connect the main pathways to a secluded area of native plants and bird watching. The design focuses on intimacy, accessibility and habitat preservation. The trail features artwork by Halima Cassells.
Client
Sidewalk Detroit
Location
Detroit, Michigan
Year
2023
Prior to redevelopment, the trail was a desire line deviating from the main road toward the Rouge River. While introducing accessibility, the goal was to ensure the feeling of intimacy could be maintained.
Working within the City of Detroit design guidelines, JIMA Studio designed a nature trail that avoided the unnecessary removal of trees and major shrubs. The goal was to maintain the existing bird habitat while incorporating the trail as part of the park’s circulation system. The path works with grade changes and defined view corridors to create a trail that feels true to the site.
Team
Ujijji Williams | Shandra Bernath-Plaisted
Location
Detroit, Michigan
Credits
General Contractor: Premier Group Associates