The City of Ecorse is located along the Detroit River, which forms a major international waterway and a fundamental part of the Great Lakes water system. The river's use has helped shape the city's landscape and character. Ecorse Creek, which is the city's western and southern municipal boundary, also provides opportunities for recreation and development. Ecorse is also the site of a major steel mill, owned by US Steel. The abandoned mill site is a prime example of redevelopment potential in the city.
The Ecorse area is home to a variety of ethnic groups. The township was first settled in 1827. In 1836, it was renamed the Village of Grand Port by British settlers. The village was reestablished in 1902 as the Village of Ecorse. At the time, it was the second largest village in the United States. Ecorse was incorporated as a city in 1942. The city's central location made it an important industrial center. In 1923, the Michigan Steel Mill was built. A few years later, Great Lakes Steel followed.
The City of Ecorse has an overall master plan for its parks and recreation areas. It contains all the elements required by state law and qualifies for funding from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. It also contains a detailed analysis of the existing recreational facilities. The plan will help to guide improvements to the city's parks and recreational facilities for the next five years.