By Donavon Simon and Lauryn Townsel Staff Writers
Cass Tech is getting a front-row seat to the massive modernization of Detroit.
With the installation of the M-1 RAIL along Woodward Ave. and the construction of the new DISTRICT DETROIT and Red Wings Arena, Cass Tech High School will be in the heart these revitalization projects and the school community has been invited to several recent ceremonies celebrating the projects.
The Cass Tech marching band’s first public performance of the year, under the new direction of Cass Tech and Jackson State University Alumni Bryant McGee, was at a ceremony for the M-1 Rail on Sept. 15 at Grand Circus Park.
On Sept. 24, the juniors and seniors of Cass Tech were invited to the CT Grand Theater to witness a presentation about the major changes in the transportation of the City of Detroit. U.S. Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx, as well as mayor Mike Duggan made the presentation at Cass Technical High School announcing that the Detroit Department of Transportation will be receiving $25.9-million federal grant to help buy 50 new buses.
Cass Tech junior James Larkins III, who was in attendance at the presentation, expresses his hope for the city of Detroit’s transportation system with the new federal grant:
“In my opinion, the M-1 RAIL going down Woodward should make a difference on transportation. Buses won’t be late and students will be able to get to school and back home just like that. Finally, it is time to make a change in our city and once again make people happy.”
On Sept. 25, the sounds of the Cass Tech marching band also helped break ground at the Official Ground Breaking Ceremony on the $650-million Red Wings arena and the new DISTRICT DETROIT on Woodward. The new sports arena should be completed in 2017.
McGee said he was grateful that Cass Tech and the marching band were included in several of the events.
“I feel extremely proud, honored, and humbled to teach at my alma mater, direct such a fine group of kids, and receive the opportunity to perform at the two very high profiled events,” McGee said. “The kids and I were able to shake hands with a lot of individuals. One relationship established at the M-1 RAIL event resulted in the funding of 13 new instruments and hopefully, more things in the near future for Cass Tech.”