Both former Mayor Mike Duggan and current Mayor Mary Sheffield have voiced support for the restoration of the boathouse and programming of the site to support renewed use for the entire community. Mayor Duggan was instrumental in seeing the lease agreement with Stuart Pitman was completed.

With Councilperson Mary Sheffield as President, the Detroit City Council voiced strong support early on for the restoration of the Detroit Boathouse. In 2024, the Council passed a unanimous resolution imploring the MDNR to stabilize the site vs continuing with threats of demolition. City Council had final approval of the lease terms in December of 2025.

The MDNR assumed management of Belle Isle with a 30 year lease beginning in 2014. In the decade plus more than $170M has been accessed for the improvement and upkeep of the park. Beyond infrastructure, modernization of historic sites include the aquarium, conservatory and island casino. MDNR approved the lease with Stuart Pitman in January of 2026.

The mission of Belle Isle Conservancy is to protect, preserve, restore and enhance the natural environment, historic structures, and unique character of Belle Isle as a public park for the enjoyment of all.

A 501(c)3 nonprofit dedicated to making Detroit's waterfront accessible to youth and adults and teaching boat safety, navigation, teamwork, and STEM based maritime education in partnership with institutions such as the University of Michigan and University of Detroit Mercy.

Founded in 1839, the Detroit Boat Club Crew, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, introduces hundreds of youth and adults annually to rowing, discipline, teamwork, and water safety while also supporting competitive athletes at national and Olympic levels.