The interviewee is a lifelong Detroit resident who has lived in her neighborhood for over 55 years. She remembers growing up in a close-knit community where neighbors supported one another and took pride in their homes. Today, she feels the neighborhood has changed, with more transient residents and out-of-state landlords who neglect property maintenance, leaving some buildings in poor condition after events like major flooding.

One of her biggest concerns is the increase in truck traffic on residential streets, especially since COVID-19 and construction connected to the Gordie Howe Bridge project. She says the streets were never designed for heavy trucks, and the constant traffic has led to cracked roads, loud nighttime noise, and concerns about damage to underground water and sewer systems. She also notes that trucks often ignore traffic laws or park illegally, creating safety and quality-of-life issues for residents.

What Real Change Looks Like to This Resident

She believes stronger enforcement is needed to keep trucks out of residential neighborhoods and protect local infrastructure. She also wants city leaders to be more accessible and engaged with residents, emphasizing face-to-face communication and faster responses to community concerns. For her, real change means leadership that listens and prioritizes the well-being of long-term Detroit residents.