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What would you like to see along the Riverfront?

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Better parking? Retail? Restaurants? A Ferris Wheel?

Michelle & Chris Gerard

Welcome to Friday Open Threads, wherein we'll pass the mic to readers to speak up about topics of interest, distress, horror, etc. Have something you want discussed? Let us know. This week’s topic: What is the Riverfront missing?

Today we noticed kind words about our Riverfront from an out-of-towner in The Guardian. The piece is about some of the best city walking paths in the world, and a reader discussed the Detroit Riverfront. Cool! Here’s what he said:

"A walk along the downtown waterfront shows many facets of urban space and life. Along the water is a mix of renovated spaces and outdated factories built at the height of the industrial era. The contrast opens the mind to the challenges and changes in cities. A block off the water is the entrance into the thriving downtown that was thought to be dead just a decade ago. Excitement and energy are all around.

The architecture is a mix of 1920s art deco, mid-century modern and new. Wandering in and out of the grand buildings is an experience everyone can enjoy. The attention to detail and the enormous skills of the craftsman who built these icons is on full display. Everything is within a mile. Most of it is pedestrian friendly. All of it is enlightening. (Daniel Gilmartin)"

The Riverfront has certainly come a long way over the past ten years. And in the next few years, we should hopefully see it extend all the way to Belle Isle. Which leads to our question: how do we make it even more of a world class destination? What else could be added to draw residents and tourists to the river? A Ferris wheel? Outdoor theater or pavilion? Opportunities to dip your feet in the water? A gateway to more neighborhoods? What do you think readers?