John D. Dingell Park

John D. Dingell Park is located in Ecorse, Michigan along the Detroit River. Known best for its annual 4 July fireworks and water festival, Dingell Park also honors local citizens who gave their lives in World War II.

Downriver Linked Greenways

In 1999 Michigan Congressman John Dingell hosted the Downriver Summit, in which the Downriver Linked Greenways were created. The purpose of the Downriver Linked Greenways is to link the communities and parks of the Downriver area through environmentally smart trails for bikers, hikers and others who love the outdoors.^[1] In 2008 the Downriver Delta Greenway map was conceptualized by the Fort-Visger Community Development Corporation, a partner organization to the Downriver Linked Greenways.^[2] The Downriver Delta Greenway map seeks to link the cities of Detroit, Ecorse, River Rouge, Michigan and Lincoln Park, Michigan on the North-South Connector of the Downriver Linked Greenways.^[3] Dingell Park is one of the parks featured on this concept. As a result of the city of Ecorse being a partner city of the initiative, Dingell Park received an overhaul in 2005. Renovations to the park included; replacement of the boardwalk and adjoining sidewalk, a gazebo, and other landscaping work and cost a million dollars.^[4]

Life on the river

John D. Dingell Park is nestled on the Detroit River making it a prime spot for fishing and to launch boats. Lake freighters carrying ore and grain are often seen on the river. Mud Island, part of the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, is just offshore of the park and is the launching point for the fireworks during the 4th of July festival. The festival runs for 3 days leading up to the fireworks, providing local vendors and restaurants. The Ecorse Rowing Club is adjacent to Dingell Park and carries history with it. Established in 1873 nearly a century before Ecorse became a city, the Rowing Club has been a staple to Dingell Park and the city for generations.

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