Iconic Detroit Landmark Getting Massive Upgrade

DETROIT — The iconic water fountain at Belle Isle Park in Detroit is getting a massive upgrade.

Michigan Department of Natural Resources officials are planning a $6 million renovation of the James Scott Memorial Fountain, which celebrates its 100th anniversary this month.

Crews are expected to begin the project sometime this summer. Officials say the renovations are meant to ensure the fountain keeps its beauty and functionality for the next century.

To ensure public safety throughout the project, the fountain plaza, adjacent sidewalk and Fountain Drive will close to the public through 2026. Construction fencing will be erected by Friday, May 16, and the fountain will run again in May 2027.

"This investment, made possible by American Rescue Plan funds, will ensure the long-term preservation of an iconic feature in Belle Isle Park," said Ron Olson, DNR Parks and Recreation chief.

The project includes installing new concrete beams and replacing the underlying fountain plumbing to strengthen its structure and its underlying mechanical room.

Additionally, crews will install a watertight seal and marble elements around the fountain's lower bowl to help prevent water infiltration.

The funds are part of a $273 million boost in federal American Rescue Plan relief funding that has enabled the DNR to tackle a decades-long backlog of infrastructure and rehabilitation projects in state parks and trails.

"Two years ago, results of the concrete core samples taken from the lower bowl showed the basin structure needed to be addressed," said Thomas Bissett, urban district supervisor for the DNR Parks and Recreation Division. "Although the project will have an impact on visitors, we're grateful that ARPA dollars were available for this project to strengthen and protect fountain structure and operation for future generations."