Imagine this: a horse lover wants to inspire youth and finds the perfect spot to do it. Well, that dream just became a reality! A few days ago, in northwest Detroit, they broke ground for what will be the biggest urban equestrian center in the U.S. Detroit Horse Power, a nonprofit focused on using the magic of horses to teach young people aged 11-18 important life skills, is getting closer to making this vision happen. But wait, what exactly is Detroit’s equestrian scene all about?

Detroit Horse Power kicked off in 2015, thanks to David Silver, a former elementary school teacher who wanted to make a difference. They’re all about teaching Detroit kids how to ride and care for horses while helping them build skills for school and life. The exciting plan for this equestrian center will transform vacant land into a lively community hub with programs for kids all year round. And here’s the cherry on top: there’s something else making this project even more special!

In a recent report shared by The Plaid Horse, it was revealed that Detroit Horse Power is buzzing right now, serving around 100 kids each year at partner stables across the area. But hold onto your hats—the new equestrian center is gearing up to welcome over 1,000 students when it opens its doors in 2026! To kick things off, they’ve launched a $2 million “Stable Future Fund,” which will give them an 18-month financial cushion to jump straight into new programs from Day One. 

Supporters can get involved too, either by being recognized in the facility’s Hall of Champions or by joining the DHP Legacy Society through tax-deductible gifts, all aimed at helping more kids connect with the amazing world of horses. David Silver, the brains behind Detroit Horse Power, is thrilled about how the community is embracing their mission.

Silver said, “It is incredibly rewarding to be closer than ever to the organization’s ultimate vision.” It’s all about creating a bright future for the kids and the community, and they’re almost there! Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan is on the same page, praising the power of teamwork. He mentioned how Detroit Horse Power shows that “by partnering with the community, neighborhoods all across our city can grow stronger.”

Duggan is all about building a future that makes Detroit shine, one that other cities will be totally jealous of. So, buckle up—Detroit Horse Power is just getting started, and there’s a lot more to come! For starters, here are the features of this incredible equestrian center. 

Unveiling the features of Detroit’s urban equestrian center

Get ready to saddle up at Detroit’s exciting new equestrian center, sprawled across a fantastic 14-acre plot at the corner of Fenkell and Linwood! This impressive 26,395-square-foot haven is designed to uplift Detroit’s youth with an array of engaging classes, after-school activities, and summer camps, making it a vibrant hub for learning and growth. 

Picture this: stables cozy enough to house up to 17 horses, providing these majestic creatures with a welcoming home. Rain or shine, anyone can practice their riding skills in the spacious 75′ x 160′ indoor riding arena. The outdoor areas are a dream come true on sunny days, featuring a roomy 100′ x 200′ outdoor arena and a serene half-mile bridle path where young riders can reconnect with nature while riding.

But that’s not all! With seven acres of lush paddocks for the horses to graze and roam, the center truly prioritizes the well-being of these noble animals. A substantial 10,000 square feet of space is also reserved for classes, nonprofit offices, and community gathering spots, all of which add to the inclusive atmosphere.

The icing on the cake? It will use geothermal and renewable solar energy to achieve net-zero energy capabilities. This center is about more than simply horses; it’s about building a community and paving the way for a sustainable future!