How Detroit recovered from largest municipal bankruptcy in U.S. history

Twelve years after becoming the largest U.S. city to file for Chapter 9 bankruptcy, Detroit reflects on its recovery journey, marked by overcoming $18 billion in debt, restoring city services, and reversing a 60-year population decline. Key strategies included restructuring debt, reducing pension obligations, and attracting investments, which helped diversify the economy beyond manufacturing and led to improvements in technology, education, healthcare, and real estate. Looking forward, Detroit focuses on sustained investment in neighborhoods, education, infrastructure, and tackling blight and public safety to ensure long-term stability and inclusive growth.