Lansing City Council Supports Naming Dodge Street After Barbara Thurman

The Providence Committee on Urban Renewal and Redevelopment Planning convened on July 28, 2025, at 5:30 PM, with a focus on community recognition and local leadership. The meeting began with attendance noted, revealing three members present and two absent. Council President Gail Young, along with representatives from the policy and law departments, were in attendance.

The first agenda item was a resolution proposing the ceremonial renaming of Dodge Street to honor Barbara Thurman, a respected community leader. Dr. Daniel Fernandez Jr. spoke passionately in support of this initiative, emphasizing Thurman's significant contributions to the community. He described her as a "pillar of care and strength," highlighting her dedication to service, compassion, and advocacy for the vulnerable.

Dr. Fernandez articulated that naming the street after Thurman would not only serve as a tribute but also as a public acknowledgment of the values she embodied—compassion, service, resilience, and justice. He stressed that this recognition would inspire future generations to appreciate and emulate true leadership.

The committee engaged in a discussion regarding the appropriate way to refer to Thurman in the official naming, considering the input from her family. The meeting continued with further testimonies and discussions, reflecting the community's commitment to honoring those who have made significant contributions to the city.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of recognizing local heroes and the impact of their legacies on the community. The committee's next steps will involve finalizing the resolution and ensuring that the naming reflects the values and sentiments expressed during the meeting.