Bedrock’s Monroe Blocks development site has transformed into the Monroe Street Midway. Now open, the venue will operate as a family-friendly outdoor recreation hub where Detroiters can skate, play basketball, and even view local art.
The new attraction boasts a Sports Zone with four half-court basketball courts and one multi-sport court. The recreational activities are set amid installations from prominent local creatives Sheefy McFly, Olivia Guterson, Phil Simpson, and jessica Care moore. A rotating cast of food trucks will join the venue’s own concession stand in providing refreshments, and events ranging from live DJ performances to outdoor fitness classes are slated to take place throughout the summer.
The Monroe Street Midway’s roller-skating rink – named “Rollout Detroit” — is a collaboration between Bedrock Detroit and RollerCade, Detroit’s oldest continuously operating Black-owned roller rink. The rink will hold themed skate events for all age groups, along with open skating sessions and skate lessons. “Rollout Detroit will change what it means to roller skate in the city of Detroit,” says Kyle Black, owner of RollerCade, in a press release. “This truly unique and creative roller rink will thrill skaters of every skill level.”
During the winter, the Monroe Blocks site was home to the Monroe Street Drive-In, an outdoor movie theater that offered family-friendly films and concessions in a COVID-safe venue. The Drive-In and the Midway are both part of Bedrock’s Decked out Detroit initiative, which aims to provide safe entertainment for families in the downtown area.
“We are excited to debut our most immersive experience yet at the Monroe Street Midway and offer residents and families a safe and memorable option for outdoor recreation this spring and summer,” says Ivy Greaner, chief operating officer at Bedrock, in a press release. “RollerCade’s expertise paired with the work of so many talented local artists will make the Midway a truly one-of-a-kind activation.”
Monroe Street Midway is open from noon until 9 p.m., Sunday-Wednesday, and noon until 11 p.m., Thursday-Saturday. There is no entrance fee to the Sports Zone. Meanwhile, two- and three-hour open skate sessions at Rollout Detroit are $10 per skater. Skate rental is an additional $3. Walk-ins are welcome at the roller-skating rink, or you can register in advance online.
For more information, visit deckedoutdetroit.com/midway.
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