Join us for Rooted, at Michigan 
Central’s Newlab

This symposium will explore community centered practices for equitable public space development informed by our Community First Toolkit research, and the vast knowledge of partner organizations in the city of Detroit.

Through panels, workshops, and peer-to-peer sessions, participants explore various topics, taking home tangible skills from engagement to operations, a deeper understanding of the potential value their work can generate, and an expanded peer network dedicated to effecting positive social, environmental, and physical change in their communities.

Community First Toolkit

About the Organizer

High Line Network

Presented by the High Line, the High Line Network is a group of infrastructure reuse projects—and the people who help them come to life. As cities become denser and land for traditional parks becomes more scarce, residents are finding creative ways to bring greenspace to their neighborhoods. Projects in the High Line Network transform underutilized infrastructure into new urban landscapes. Redefining what a park can be, these hybrid spaces are also public squares, open-air museums, botanical gardens, social service organizations, walkways, transit corridors, and more.

Our Local Partners

With deep experience in local partnerships, these organizations are bringing community-centered programming to the forefront of their work in Detroit and are leading practitioners in the urban infrastructure reuse field.

Detroit Riverfront Conservancy

The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy was formed in 2003 with the vision of transforming Detroit's international riverfront—the face of the city—into a beautiful, exciting, safe, accessible world-class gathering place for all.​ The Conservancy is responsible for the establishment, improvement, operation, maintenance, security, programming and expansion of the Detroit Riverwalk and associated green spaces including the Dequindre Cut, Southwest Greenway and Mayor Dennis Archer Greenway. The ultimate vision for the Riverwalk stretches 5.5 miles from the MacArthur Bridge to Belle Isle on the east to the Ambassador Bridge to Canada on the west. Currently, 3.5 miles of Riverwalk and 3.5 miles of greenways are complete under the Conservancy's portfolio.

Joe Louis Greenway Partnership

The Joe Louis Greenway is a transformative nearly 30-mile biking and walking trail connecting Detroit to Highland Park, Dearborn, and Hamtramck. Weaving together the Dequindre Cut, Detroit RiverWalk, Iron Belle Trail, and Southwest Greenway, it will create a vibrant space for people of all abilities to walk, bike, and run. More than just a pathway, the Greenway will unite neighborhoods, parks, schools, and businesses, fostering a more connected, inclusive, and active Metro Detroit.

FAQs

  • Bus transportation is available from our conference hotels in the morning, to tours in the afternoon, and to receptions in the evening.

    Please review the bus schedule carefully for departure times and locations.

  • If you are arriving to any of the conference venues by car, please see the parking guide.

  • High Line Network symposiums are an event unique in its kind, as it’s the only learning event designed for project leaders within the infrastructure reuse field. Since these spaces have a unique set of challenges, exploring the issues, solutions, and possibilities within this practice with others like you will offer a unique perspective about the field.

  • The symposium will host approximately 250 thought leaders and subject-matter experts to be in conversation together, with a focus on nonprofit infrastructure reuse projects. It will include those who influence or shape the infrastructure reuse field and our work to build equitable development through all stages—including funders, architects, planners, academics, and more.

  • Network members are eligible to bring up to three staff and board members, while other organizations are limited to two. Additional tickets may be available, please contact the Network team with requests.

  • Network members and speakers may be eligible for assistance with travel expenses.

  • The High Line Network strongly encourages all attendees to follow the latest CDC guidance. If you feel unwell, we ask that you not attend the event.

  • While primarily an in-person event, keynote panels and talks will be recorded and available shortly after the event on this website.