As one of the fellows who commutes to the suburbs for work with their host company, Telegration, my experience has a different flavor. The attitudes within the city are far from homogeneous, but there is a completely different conversation happening outside of the city. In my experience thus far, the majority of my conversations have been composed of three parts: speeding (up), slowing down, and the screeching halt.

Speeding (up):  Entering into conversations with people in the community surrounding my workplace initially there is a great deal of energy and enthusiasm. The dialogue begins with the boilerplate questions, “Where do you work?” “What do you do?” “Where do you live?”

Slowing down: As the dialogue continues and we delve past the pleasantries, we discover that there is a divide between us. We may work in the same areas, but we do not live in the same areas. Our concerns are different. Our awareness is different. You get it, our perspectives are different.

Screeching Halt: SWERVE! At this point in the conversation, it becomes evident that they know little about what is happening inside of the city. In some cases they do not seem to care, and in others they seem mildly curious. When speaking with a life-long suburbanite who attended Wayne State University regarding Dally in the Alley they stated, “What is that?” (Dally in the Alley started in 1977.)

It may seem as if these dialogues are hurtling towards an accident, but that does not need to be the case. Personally, conversations like this have helped me realize that this is a unique opportunity. As I learn more about the challenges Detroit is facing, and the victories that it celebrates, a bridge can be built between these two codependent regions. Many people have said that it is impossible to have a successful urban city without a strong, healthy core.  As the year moves forward I am eager to see the relationships we are able to cultivate with the city, but also with its suburbs.

So, chime in fellow commuters! What has been your experience driving into the suburbs, or driving into the city? How can we get traction on connecting the two equally important parts?