Once, the sounds of spirited debate and civic duty echoed here. Today, we’re standing where Detroit’s Old City Hall stood from 1871 to 1961. This is the story of Kennedy Park.
The demolition of the Old City Hall was not without controversy. Despite arguments about its outdated style and safety concerns, many fought to save it. However, the city government had already moved to the City-County Building in 1954. The Old City Hall became obsolete.
In its place, Old City Hall Park appeared briefly. It was a temporary green space. The park existed until 1965.
Then the area was transformed again. A parking garage was constructed beneath a concrete plaza. This new public space was named Kennedy Square. It honored President John F. Kennedy.
Kennedy spoke on the future site of Kennedy Square during his presidential campaign. It was Labor Day, September 5, 1960. Detroit was a traditional kickoff spot for Democratic presidential campaigns.
Later, in May 15, 1968, Bobby Kennedy gave a short speech in the then completed Kennedy Square. This event was part of his presidential campaign.
Ted Kennedy also spoke here. He introduced Sen. George McGovern at the kickoff to McGovern’s presidential campaign on Labor Day, September 4, 1972.
A large fountain was a focal point of Kennedy Square. Sadly, it was plagued by leaks and high maintenance costs. Safety concerns ultimately led to the fountain’s closure in the late 1970s. For roughly 30 years the fountain fell into disrepair. The barren plaza remained unchanged.
Many remember Kennedy Square as a place with many pigeons. People who worked at One Woodward had lunch there. They particularly enjoyed the sightseeing during spring.
In 2005, the location was redeveloped. One Kennedy Square was built. Ernst and Young became a primary tenant.
Kennedy Square technically no longer exists. The area was reconfigured for the Campus Martius plaza in 2004. The block that contained Kennedy Square was reduced in size.
However, the garage built in 1965 remains beneath the square. It has been renovated.
The site has transformed over the years. City Hall became a park. The park became a plaza and fountain. The plaza is now an office building. Each phase reflects Detroit’s evolving history.
The head of a statue and remains from City Hall still exist at Fort Wayne.
So, while the physical Kennedy Park has evolved, its name and history remain. They connect us to pivotal moments in Detroit’s past. They connect us to the legacy of the Kennedy family.