Officials Plan To Close Two Major Detroit Streets For Runners, Bicyclists And More This Fall

DETROIT (AP) -- Plans are in the works to temporarily turn two major Detroit roadways into car-free zones on two days this fall for walking, running, biking, shopping and play.

"Open Streets Detroit" is planned noon-5 p.m. Sept. 25 and Oct. 2 along Michigan Avenue and West Vernor Highway. The route begins at Campus Martius Park in downtown, connects through Roosevelt Park in Corktown and continues through southwest Detroit.

The events, which both are scheduled for Sundays, are free and the route highlights neighborhood retail and green space along the way. Sports, exercise classes and other health and wellness activities are planned. Organizers say it builds on an international Open Streets movement.

The Downtown Detroit Partnership, the DTE Energy Foundation and several other organizations are involved in the Detroit effort.