DDP: 40 Years of Detroit Aglow

By Eric Larson, CEO of the Downtown Detroit Partnership Time for reflection. Four decades ago, the Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP) launched one of Detroit’s most highly anticipated fundraisers to convene leaders and promote Detroit’s growth. The evening brought together dignitaries and community leaders for dinner and networking at Cobo Hall, what we now know as Huntington Place, and concluded with a walk over to Hart Plaza for the annual Detroit Tree Lighting ceremony. Setting the scene, in 1984 times were tough, businesses and residents were moving out of the city. We were recovering from the recession as automotive manufacturing facilities within the city limits closed. These and other factors contributed to a reduction in development and growth. But Detroit still mattered. That same year, the Detroit Tigers won the World Series, the Detroit Grand Prix hosted its Formula One Championship Race in the streets of Downtown, and Prince launched his Purple Rain Tour at Joe Louis Arena with seven sold-out shows. & Forty years later, a significant part of Detroit’s turnaround includes the very same business community that believed and invested in the city regardless of its momentary challenges. Some of those unwavering leaders include the Ilitch and Ford families,...