Detroit Rising
Detroit has become a symbol of the global financial crisis; but a group of committed micro-industrialists and artists with a DIY attitude are determined to bring the old Motor City back out of bankruptcy.
"I don't know if we even measure things in tragedy any more", says reporter Steve Neavling, who chronicles Detroit's many fires. Abandoned homes are being burnt down for insurance purposes or just for fun. The population has dwindled to half the size it was just half a century ago. Yet where some see destruction, others see opportunity. "There are an endless amount of possibilities for the restoration and reclaiming of the city", believes Bart Eddy. He teaches woodwork to the local youth, giving them new skills and jobs. From their kerbside economics to big investors looking to cash in on Detroit's rugged charm, both manufacture and jobs are returning to the city, creating everything from high-end watches to urban fashion and refurbished bikes. "There's two Detroits right now. If we want to measure success, we have to look at both", argues Steve.
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