By Eric B. Larson
Chief Executive Officer, Downtown Detroit Partnership
The Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP) has always been at the forefront of progress in the city, but 2024 was a year like no other. As CEO, I close out each year with confidence in our mission to create a thriving, vibrant, and welcoming Downtown. However, this past year stands out as a defining period when the DDP’s efforts and initiatives had a resounding impact on Detroit’s businesses, residents, visitors, and overall positive perception.
From the very start of 2024, the DDP was deeply engaged in shaping the city’s future. We began the year with a grant from The Kresge Foundation to conduct a Peer Review of the I-375 Reconnecting Communities project. This multi-year, multi-million-dollar initiative will have long-term implications for Detroit, and we embraced the responsibility of ensuring that all voices are heard and that the project remains in the best interests of businesses and residents alike. Our commitment to equitable outcomes continued through our leadership on the I-75 Cap initiative, reinforcing our role as a key player in shaping Detroit’s infrastructure and mobility strategies. We have an opportunity to lead the nation in addressing past harm, repairing residential displacement and loss of businesses, honoring cultural legacies, and building a more connected city.
Our influence was equally prominent during some of Detroit’s biggest moments of the year. We played a pivotal role in hosting the record-breaking 2024 NFL Draft, which shattered expectations and positioned Detroit as a premier destination for national events. Our involvement extended to the annual Detroit Grand Prix, Detroit Homecoming, and the historic Detroit Tree Lighting, which drew unprecedented crowds and underscored the city’s growing momentum as a hub for culture and community engagement.
One of the year’s most significant developments was the City of Detroit’s tripling of our parks and public space stewardship, increasing from six to 18 locations. This expansion marked a historic milestone and affirmed DDP’s expertise in public space management. Meanwhile, our work on the MEDC’s Revitalization and Placemaking Program grant projects made substantial progress, leading to notable infrastructure and aesthetic improvements in Capitol Park, Grand Circus Park, and Campus Martius Park. These projects will continue shaping the city’s landscape in 2025 and beyond, fostering increased accessibility, visitation, and economic development in both commercial and residential sectors.
Detroit’s business landscape also saw remarkable achievements, with new investments and corporate expansions reinforcing confidence in the city’s economic future. Henry Ford Health announced a transformative $3.2-billion hospital development, a game-changing investment in the city’s healthcare infrastructure. The Gilbert Family Foundation provided significant funding for the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab rehabilitation center, further enhancing Detroit’s reputation as a leader in medical innovation. Sterling Group announced plans for a new luxury hotel on the west waterfront, adding to the city’s growing hospitality sector. General Motors reaffirmed its commitment to Downtown Detroit by announcing it will keep its headquarters in the city, dispelling speculation about relocation. And we can’t leave out Ford’s monumental milestone — the grand opening of Michigan Central Station, marking a new era of development and innovation in the city’s historic landmark and building on the city’s legacy in transportation and mobility. This remarkable transformation has already exceeded expectations in number of visitors, attracting new tenants, incorporating cutting-edge technologies, and boosting our new venture ecosystem.
The media recognized Detroit’s rise on a national scale. Time Magazine and Condé Nast Traveler named Detroit one of the best places to visit in 2024, and The New York Times followed suit this year. All of these highlighted, among other things, the city’s dynamic arts scene, revitalized neighborhoods, and world-class culinary experiences. The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Guardian, and Forbes featured Detroit in multiple articles, praising its urban transformation, investment in green spaces, and the resurgence of its local economy. These media mentions reinforce what we already know and help bring even more attention and visitors to our vibrant city.
As we step into 2025, the DDP’s role remains as crucial as ever. With upcoming public-sector leadership changes, we will take the lead in engaging, educating, and reinforcing the key issues that impact Downtown Detroit. Our history demonstrates that we are the steady force navigating the city through transitions, ensuring that progress remains uninterrupted. Since 1922, we have been a bridge between administrations, advocating for businesses, supporting public safety, and maintaining continuity in policy and development.
Our legacy is built on action, not fanfare. Whether it was working with Mayor Coleman Young to establish international sister-city partnerships, supporting the Dave Bing Administration with emergency vehicle needs, or helping Mayor Duggan equip police patrols with bikes, the DDP has always answered the call. This year will be no different.
As in 2024, businesses, foundations, and organizations will turn to the DDP as the convener of the public and private sectors. With our proven ability to create meaningful dialogue and execute challenging assignments, we stand ready to embrace the opportunities and challenges ahead. Together, we will continue to build a stronger, more vibrant Downtown Detroit.
