Renovated Shelter Repurposed As Belle Isle Pedicab, Carriage Stop
BELLE ISLE (WWJ/AP) - There will be more ways to get around on Belle Isle, and thanks to some recent renovation work.
A newly renovated, decades-old bus shelter is expected to serve as a stop for pedicabs and horse-and-carriage rides on the island.
The shelter overhaul took place this month under a partnership involving the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the State Historic Preservation Office and the Detroit Training Institute of Technology. Students undertook the renovation work.
"The students will soon be entering into the construction industry, and this project gives them essential, real-life experiences that will prepare them for excellence in their future careers," David Ricca, Detroit Training Institute of Technology instructor and project leader, said in a statement.
The shelter once served as a bus stop for visitors to the island park, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The renovation includes a new roof and the state said original poles and concrete, which are in good condition, will remain in place.
"The early-20th century shelter is a contributing factor to Belle Isle's recognition as a national historic district," said Lisa Gamero, DNR cultural stewardship specialist. "It's important to maintain the historical integrity of this shelter and the many other historic structures on the island."
The Detroit Training Institute of Technology, established in 2006, combines classroom training with hands-on learning experiences to prepare students for occupations in the building trades.
Pedicab and horse-and-carriage rides from downtown Detroit to Belle Isle and around the island are planned this summer, the DNR said. Bike rentals also will be available on the island and the DNR is looking at the possibility of returning public bus service to the island.
The state assumed management of the park from Detroit last year.
TM and © Copyright 2015 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2015 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.
