DPM Champion Interview, ft. Ericka Alexander
Ericka Alexander, Manager, Communications and Outreach at Detroit Transportation Corporation (Detroit People Mover)
Your Detroit Story
“Tell us a little about who you are and what first inspired you to invest your energy in Detroit’s community.”
I’m a Detroiter—born, raised, educated, and employed here. It’s been a joy and a blessing to have a job that allows me to interact with all kinds of people. Over the course of my career, I’ve helped students voice their dreams and aspirations; spent priceless moments with community leaders, documenting how they work miracles to improve our city; united companies and organizations in support of important common causes; and for over two decades, shown people the purpose and value of meeting their needs through public transit. The “why” is service to others—and how I can continue to make a positive change in someone’s life.
Transportation in Downtown: Then & Now
“In your experience, how has transportation in Downtown Detroit evolved over the years, and what role do you see the People Mover playing in that change?”
There are over 400 businesses in Downtown Detroit, and in the past, small businesses might have had one good season and barely survived the other three. Today, downtown is more than the sum of its blocks…it’s a vibrant neighborhood that allows some of the most unique businesses to grow.
It is no longer unusual to see pets playing in the parks, tour groups and shoppers strolling the streets, people dining on patios or seniors exercising on the riverwalk. Continued growth has spread across the district, with year-round activities and places to go that suit every lifestyle and income level.
With free rides on the People Mover, any student, family, resident, employee, or visitor can do and see it all, and they can connect to downtown’s public transportation network, to travel to home in Detroit, Midtown, Ann Arbor, or out to the suburbs. It takes some planning, but we see every day that it can be done—and I believe that transit will be executed even better in the future.
Favorite Spot Along the People Mover
“Which station or nearby spot along the People Mover route do you love most, and what makes it special to you?”
Choosing is hard! When I give group and school tours of our Art in the Stations (March–October—contact me!), I love them all, but Cadillac Center Station is my favorite.
Cadilac Station really is central: it is around the corner from Woodward and Campus Martius Park, across from Hudson’s Detroit, and a short stroll to Library Street, The Belt, and Broadway. And with the history inside the station, a permanent Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) installation, towering Pewabic tiles that glitter, and the legacy of the historic Stroh Brewery on the walls, it’s all there.
Hopes & Dreams for Detroit
“When you think about Detroit’s future, what’s one message or aspiration you’d share with the community?”
People are finding new ways to connect and make a difference. Individuals, neighborhoods, and organizations are forming collective voices to address their needs and concerns. In the story being written about Detroit, we all have the ability to add chapters—and sequels—so don’t hesitate to share your narrative and help create the city you want to see. It matters.
Fun Finale: Ride with Anyone
“If you could ride the Detroit People Mover with anyone—past or present—who would it be, and why?”
That’s easy, Prince! There’s so much mutual love between Prince and his Detroit fans. I know he would have eventually created a song about us…it may already be in the vault. I’d add it as a soundtrack on the People Mover so everyone could hear it when they ride.
