New cars at the auto show, new stuff to enjoy DT

[Allan]

New cars at the auto show, new stuff to enjoy downtown

January 9, 2004

BY DAN SHINE

FREE PRESS STAFF WRITER

The automakers aren't the only ones with something new to show this year.

Just like the new models, downtown Detroit has a new look:

Kern's clock: The landmark meeting spot for friends and shoppers is back and ticking on Woodward, north of Michigan.

Library: The downtown branch of the Detroit Public Library, now called the Rose and Robert Skillman Branch, is open after a $7.3-million restoration.

Shopping downtown: There are some new, exciting spots to shop. They include the Julian Scott department store on Fort near Washington; Borders Books & Music in the Compuware building, and Made In Detroit in Greektown.

New dining: The Hard Rock Cafe in the Compuware building; Atlas Global Bistro at 3111 Woodward, north of the Fox Theatre; Detroit Beer Co. on Broadway near Grand Circus Park, and Cafe de Troit on Library Street behind Compuware. For a list of downtown restaurants, see www.freep.com/entertainment/newsandreviews /ddintro6_20040106.htm.

Labor monument at Hart Plaza: The six-story steel arch in Hart Plaza is part of the Michigan Labor Legacy Project. The $1.5-million monument, called "Transcending," features two 63-foot-high, stainless steel arches connected by a beam of light.

And two things that haven't changed:

The People Mover: The People Mover currently is out of service, but shuttle buses are available at all stops. City officials say they expect to have the trains up and running by Saturday. If the trains are functioning Saturday, riders should know the Renaissance Center stop has been torn down as part of building's renovation. You can board from all stations between Millender and Bricktown. The People Mover will be extending hours during the auto show with trains running 8 a.m. to midnight on the weekends and 7 a.m. to midnight weekdays. For more info on routes, see www.thepeoplemover.com.

Parking: Parking enforcement officers will be out in force. Check a nearby sign for enforcement hours. They are typically from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays and 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday.