Jefferson East :
Detroit Development News
"(There was a time when)
TechTown was trying to be all things to all people," says TechTown President and CEO Leslie Smith. Now, with community partners like
Hatch Detroit and
D:hive, which are better-suited to validate and launch ideas, TechTown is able to focus on what they do best: validate and launch businesses.
Two programs TechTown runs that focus on launching businesses are SWOT City and Retail Boot Camp.
"In 2008, when the economy crashed, we found ourselves involved in a new economy initiative that suggested entrepreneurship was a new career path for many people," says Smith. TechTown also found themselves involved in businesses that were decidedly non-tech. "We looked at where was the most ripe opportunity for businesses and the existing market demand; from these places these programs were born."
SWOT City places new businesses to fill community voids and promote entrepreneurship, connects neighborhood businesses with key resources and provides personal coaching and information sessions to address a business's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT).
"SWOT attempts to address underserved populations in the city of Detroit who don't necessarily have the information or transportation to even get to TechTown," says Smith. "We saw we were not serving the city in as many ways as we could, so we developed a neighborhood strategy that allows us to go to them and meet them where they are." They did their initial testing in Midtown and the North End before launching in Brightmoor last October, a socioeconomically challenged neighborhood that has already seen positive results.
In six months, the partnership with Brightmoor has provided 400 hours of technical assistance, retained 53 jobs, completed 15 business assessments, and created one business and four jobs with six more businesses currently in the pipeline. In late March, TechTown announced their next community partnership is with the
Jefferson East Business Association to develop the East Jefferson commercial corridor.
Retail Boot Camp is a new program offered by TechTown, which acts as an aggressive accelerator program for brick and mortar retail businesses. Applications for the first round are being accepted through this Friday, April 19. The intensive 10-week evening program starts in May with the goal of launching a dozen new retail storefronts in the city within the year.
Source: Leslie Smith, TechTown President and CEO
Writer: Nicole Rupersburg
Got a Development News story to share? Email Nicole here.
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Southwest Housing Solutions is currently extending its reach beyond Southwest Detroit into the northeast corner of the city. A new three-story construction development on the corner of Mack Avenue and Ashland near the border of Grosse Pointe Park is a partnership between Southwest Housing Solutions, the
Warren/Conner Development Coalition (and its subsidiary LAND, Inc.), the
Northeast Guidance Center, and the
U-SNAP-BAC Community Development Corporation.
The $7.9 million, 40,000-square-foot Mack-Alter Supportive Housing Development will feature 39 subsidized supportive housing units as well as 6,000 square feet of commercial space on the ground floor. Funded by the federal
Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, Southwest Housing Solutions is spearheading this project as the developer as they have the necessary real estate development experience.
"This is different for Southwest," says Tim Thorland, Executive Director of Southwest Housing Solutions. "Three groups from the East Side approached us (because they) don’t have the experience as real estate developers and asked (if we would help them) as co-owners. We’re really the project developer (and property manager)."
The Northeast Guidance Center will work with its clients to fill the 39 available housing units and the Warren/Conner Development Coalition will handle the commercial spaces. "This is really an example of the power of collaboration between nonprofits in the city," says Thorland. "We’re colleagues with common goals but also competitors (for resources). Here, we’re helping each other achieve what (we all want to do)."
This is not the first time Southwest Housing Solutions has partnered on a project outside of its usual neighborhood. They also served as the real estate developer of the
Piquette Square project in New Center, which welcomed its first tenants in 2010.
Thorland says they expect this project to be completed early this summer, targeting for a full year after initially breaking ground in June 2012.
Source: Tim Thorland, Executive Director of Southwest Housing Solutions
Writer: Nicole Rupersburg
Got a Development News story to share? Email Nicole here.
Kathy Makino-Leipsitz and Mark Leipsitz don't just have a vision for the handful of Palmer Park apartment buildings they plan to bring online this year. They have a grand plan for the entire district and its
large collection of Art Deco buildings.
"We're very excited," says Kathy Makino-Leipsitz, who co-owns Shelborne Development with her husband Mark Leipsitz. "These buildings are irreplaceable."
The Indian Village-based real-estate development company has purchased nearly a dozen apartment buildings in Palmer Park in recent years. Many of those include some of the district's most jaw dropping architectural gems, such as Palmer Lodge, La Vogue, Coronado, Madrid Court (currently under construction), El Dorado, Alwyne Lane, Sarasota, Merton Manor and Whitmore Plaza. Shelborne Development plans to redevelop all of these into apartments and commercial space, and is considering razing two fire-damaged mixed-use buildings on McNichols. The renovations are expected to all come online by 2014.
The idea is to create a vibrant neighborhood that is a destination for the entire region filled with high-quality homes (both affordable and market rate housing) and spaces for small businesses. The basement of the Palmer Lodge features several thousand square feet of space that could offer space for a coffee shop, restaurant or bar.
"The basement is pretty much open space," Kathy Makino-Leipsitz says. "You would have up to 2,500 square feet in each space."
She is also looking into the idea of bringing a mounted security patrol to Palmer Park. The Detroit Police Department recently relocated its mounted division to Palmer Park. Kathy Makino-Leipsitz is interested in brokering a partnership with the police department that would allow properly trained private security personnel to use the mounted division's horses.
"This should be like Central Park in New York, but for Detroit," Kathy Makino-Leipsitz says.
Source: Kathy Makino-Leipsitz and Mark Leipsitz, co-developers of the La Vogue
Writer: Jon Zemke
Read more about Metro Detroit's growing entrepreneurial ecosystem at SEMichiganStartup.com.
The Paradise Valley Investment Group is leveraging the city of Detroit's federal neighborhood stabilization funds, extensively renovating multi-family homes in East English Village and Hubbard Farms.
The home renovation company, headed up by California-native
Robin Scovill, is close to wrapping up renovating of seven units of small multi-family buildings that had been foreclosed on in strong residential areas of Detroit. These renovations include extensive green options, such as energy efficient windows and furnaces, along with insulation and Energy Star appliances.
"Robin loved the idea of going into a house and fully renovating it, getting as much out of it as possible," says Eric Novack, an investor in
Paradise Valley Investment Group.
Novack adds that there has been a strong demand for the rentals, which are marketed at affordable rates. One duplex in East English Village was leased shortly before it was finished and there has been strong demand for the other units which should come online by the end of this spring.
Novack also says that Paradise Investment Group has broadened its business model, allowing some local investors to take shares in the company as it continues to expand its portfolio, which not includes buildings in West Village, Corktown and a few other well-known Detroit neighborhoods.
"That's the nice things about Detroit's rental market is you will see more outside investors as long as they have the right people on the ground," Novack says.
Source: Eric Novack, an investor in Paradise Valley Investment Group
Writer: Jon Zemke
Read more about Metro Detroit's growing entrepreneurial ecosystem at SEMichiganStartup.com.
The GREEN Task Force represents more than just a plan for establishing greenway paths for non-motorized traffic throughout Detroit's Lower East Side. It's also a symbol of bringing a number of big players together to connect a number of neighborhoods and institutions on the Motor City's east side with the rest of the city.
The task force has been able to bring together residents from a number of neighborhoods on the east side by the Detroit River with city officials,
Detroit Eastside Community Collaborative,
Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, The Villages Community Development Corp and the Mt. Elliott Business Community Association, among others. The GREEN Task Force is funded by a $213,000 grant from the
Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan.
"Good things are happening on the east side," says Brian Hurttienne, executive director of
The Villages Community Development Corp. "The GREEN Task Force brought everyone to the table. We're keeping everyone at that table."
The GREEN Task Force's Vision of Greenways program is providing a blue print for creating greenways, linear parks, bike lanes and other pathways for pedestrians, bicyclists, roller bladers and others who want to travel without an automobile near Detroit's east riverfront between the Dequindre Cut and Grosse Pointe Park.
The plan outlines 16 miles of new or expanded greenways, including the Elmwood Connector, Belt Line Greenway (a rail trail conversion), Kercheval Greenway, Burns Connector, Conner Creek Greenway enhancements, Sweet Loop, Fox Creek Greenway, Far East Connector, Carstens Spur and the RiverWalk Extension. More information on the plan can be found
here.
The plan recommends creating enhancements include: making East Jefferson Avenue between I-375 and Alter Road a "
Complete Street," creating bike lanes on Lafayette Street between Iroquois Street and downtown, connecting multi-family housing on E. Grand Boulevard with Belle Isle and connecting the Creekside neighborhood to the Marina District via Freud Street.
"If you have a safe way of getting somewhere it just makes life better," Hurttienne says. "Transit is going to be a big thing for not only us but the city and the region."
Source: Brian Hurttienne, executive director for The Villages Community Development Group
Writer: Jon Zemke
Read more about Metro Detroit's growing entrepreneurial ecosystem at SEMichiganStartup.com.
Tuesday, October 04, 2011
Modern disc golf began as a 1960's fad, but the sport (modeled on golf, players aim frisbees into baskets) is now played in 40 countries, with 11,000 registered members and hoards of weekend and afternoon enthusiasts.
Woodbridge resident Chris Haag hopes to build a disc golf course near the lighthouse on Belle Isle. He's confident he can raise the money (it costs about $3,000 to build a basic course, though some designs run as high as $10,000). Now, he just needs to get the attention of
park officials.
To do that, Haag and partner Joe Robinson are hosting a public disc golf tournament on Nov. 6 at Belle Isle, improvising a makeshift course of 18 to 24 holes over about 20 acres. The goal -- show city leaders that Detroit is full of disc golf enthusiasts who would utilize a proper course (a small nine-hole city course at Jayne/Lasky Park near Davison and Conant is an unimaginative course designed primarily for beginners).
Registration is $40 and includes a frisbee or t-shirt. All proceeds will help offset the cost of building a course on Belle Isle. "If we have a good showing on that day, being able to show them that there's a lot of people who want to do this, I think that will really help," he says.
Haag says the course is a good idea for Belle Isle because it encourages outdoor activity and holds a cross-generational appeal. "You're outdoors, you're walking around in a really nice park, and anyone can play it," he says. "I've taken my parents out, I've taken little kids out to play. It's not like ball golf ... it costs $20 for two Frisbees, and if you don't lose them, you can play the entire year on $20."
Haag, who moved to Detroit from Clarkston six months ago, usually heads back to North Oakland County for games, at courses like Holly Recreation Area or Addison Oaks. He says he's amazed by the game's increasing popularity since he started throwing the discs around six years ago. "I used to go anytime of day or night and maybe I would run into two or three other people," he remembers. "Now, I go, and I still love to play, but it's just totally different. If you go in the evening, every hole will have six people in a group getting ready to tee off, and two or three groups waiting behind them. There's hundreds of people out there every time."
He's sure of one thing: that enough Detroiters will get behind the idea in order to see a successful course built on Belle Isle's greens. "Detroit seems like the kind of place where, if you have something that you want to get done, it's just a matter of going out and doing it," he says.
So far, 513 people have "liked" this venture on Facebook. Click
here to join them.
The
Detroit Eastside Community Collaborative (DECC) will celebrate the opening of more than two miles of pedestrian and bike trails opened to the public via the
Conner Creek Greenway Initiative with an Arbor Day tree planting and parade on April 29 in Maheras Gentry Park on the Detroit River.
The event kicks off with a Greening of Detroit-directed tree planting sponsored by DTE Energy and planted by company volunteers at 9 a.m. The parade begins at 11 a.m., led by a procession of 120 students from the Detroit Merit Academy -- and their wildlife puppets -- made along with the Mosaic Youth Theatre as part of the company's preparations for its upcoming performance of new production "Marshland Security." U.S. Congressman Hansen Clarke and Mayor Bing are among the rumored guests.
The
Conner Creek Greenway is part of more than 23 miles of connected paths in Detroit created by the City of Detroit with the support of the The
Conner Creek Greenway provides residents of Detroit's eastside with a way to connect neighborhoods and create walkable, bikeable access to the Detroit River.
"It's kind of the neighborhood version of the Detroit River Walk or the Dequindre Cut," says project manager Elizabeth Pachota of the Conner Creek Greenway. "The plan for the Conner Creek Gateway is to create a nine-mile pathway extend all the way from Eight Mile Road to the Detroit River, generally along Conner Avenue. It's built on a creekbed, what used to be an open creekbed."
So far, four and a half miles of the project have been built since 2006, and Pachota says pedestrian use has increased since the grassroots paths have been installed.
Ultimately, the goal of the
Conner Creek Greenway is for a student from a school like Osborn High School to be able to meet his or her friends at the Lipke Recreation Center, stop at the Warren
Conner Shopping District and then continue on to a family picnic at the river -- all by greenway. Although, Pachota, recommends, they'd better bring a bike for that trip.
Source: Elizabeth Pachota, Project Manager, DECC
Writer: Ashley C. Woods
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Chalmers Square, a redevelopment of three historic buildings on East Jefferson, broke ground recently. The $7 million investment will renovate three vacant structures into 47 residential units and 17,000 square feet of commercial retail space. The project also involves the conversion of a former liquor store on the northeast corner of Jefferson and Newport into a full-service market.
The size and scope of the project are significant, says Josh Elling, the executive director of the Jefferson East Business Assoc., the non-profit tasked with strengthening the district. "We've been working on this project for 10 years, it's a big deal," he says.
"This validates JEBA's approach to working with private developers and public agencies to help transform formerly vacant structures on Jefferson into economic generators and to increase density along the Jefferson corridor."
Chalmers Square is being developed by Detroit-based Shelborne Development, the firm that is also involved with
St. Aubin Square and the
Book House. The project has benefited from brownfield tax credits and support from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority and the Detroit office of the Local Initiatives Support Corp.
The addresses of the three buildings are 1025 Newport and 14401 and 11436 E. Jefferson. Elling expects construction to be completed in the third quarter of 2011.
Source: Josh Elling, JEBA
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
A $5.7 million senior complex broke ground in November on Dickerson just south of E. Jefferson. Called Dickerson Manor, the three-story structure will hold 66 units for independent seniors. Each apartment has two bedrooms and a patio or balcony.
The development features common space on each floor, an exercise room, hair salon, craft room and large community room. Outdoor gardens will include a gazebo and a walking path. Construction will wrap up in mid-summer, says Aimee Vito, project coordinator with developer
MHT Housing.
MHT also owns Jefferson Square, a senior complex that is adjacent to the one currently under construction. The company sees a high demand for new construction senior housing in the area, says Vito. "Jefferson is a major thoroughfare, so it's close to shopping and bus stops, all the things that seniors need to get to." She also credits a relationship with
Jefferson East Business Association in helping pave the way for the new development.
Dickerson East apartments will be income-restricted.
Sources: Josh Elling, Jefferson East Business Association and Aimee Vito, MHT Housing
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, November 09, 2010
A couple of new shops, Sneaker City and Game Stop, have opened their doors on East Jefferson in Riverbend Plaza.
Um, is a teenage boy in charge there or what?
The stores are on the eastern end of the shopping center, near AAA Insurance, Radio Shack and a pharmacy.
Josh Elling, executive director of the
Jefferson East Business Association, says new stores mean that retailers are taking notice of the area's concentrated population. "They are choosing modern retail amenities, like Riverbend Plaza, given the population density and local income density," he says. "We're happy to see additional shopping amenities for residents of the area and visitors to the business district."
Another feather in the commercial district's cap is its crime rate. Real estate website
Neighborhood Scout ranks it as Detroit's safest, with the chance of being the victim of a violent crime one in 321 versus one in 57 citywide.
JEBA continues its ongoing business attraction efforts tonight, November 9, with the organization's monthly seminar entitled Vision to Reality. This class covers the basics of starting a new business, with topics that include financing, licensing and marketing. It is taught by a certified business consultant and will run from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
On November 17, JEBA will host a financing roundtable from 9 a.m. to noon with representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration, a business loan banker and a small business counselor from the Michigan Small Business & Technology Development Center. This interactive session is designed to clarify the process of commercial lending for small business owners.
Pre-registration is a must for either session. Contact Aquanetta Sproule at
asproule@jeffersoneast.org or 313-331-7939.
Source: Josh Ellis, JEBA
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
One mile of St. Jean between Jefferson and Mack has new bike lanes, the
first in the city not on Belle Isle or near the riverfront. They were
completed by the City of Detroit's Department of Public Works with
Recovery Act Funds, designed by Hamilton Anderson Associates and funded
by the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan via the Kresge
Foundation.
The bike lanes are part of an overall vision for a
9-mile greenway that roughly follows the path of Conner Creek and
ultimately connects the Detroit River with the city's northern boundary
of Eight Mile. This fall, another mile of bike lanes and a pathway into
Maheras Gentry Park will be built; by the end of 2012, 6.5 miles will be
complete. "We thought it would take us about 10 years to build this
9-mile greenway, from first inkling to first plans to completing
construction," says Libby Pachota Levy, who is spearheading the project
for the Detroit Eastside Community Collaborative, the greenway's
sponsoring organization. "And we're actually on target ... by the end of
2013, there will be a 9-mile link for all East Side neighborhoods."
Pachota Levy credits DPW with being proactive on
the St. Jean section of the project. "We learned from Jose Abraham at
DPW that the City would be repaving St. Jean this spring/summer and,
since it fell within the boundaries of the planned Conner Creek
Greenway, we requested installation of bike lanes," she says. "Using
specs from Chicago, we worked with Hamilton Anderson, DPW and Traffic
Engineering to redesign the roadway to accommodate bike lanes. The lanes
are accompanied by a green landscaped berm, making it a great place for
both walking and biking."
Building the
greenway is not DECC's only task -- getting residents to use it is
equally important, says Pachota Levy. "In addition to slowly and
steadily building out each phase and keeping it on track, we are also
slowly building awareness, getting people out there, active and using
the greenway," she says. Activities include bike rides, Camp Greening in
partnership with Greening of Detroit, walking clubs and kayaking.
Source:
Libby Pachota Levy
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
The seventh incarnation of
Jazzin' on Jefferson returns -- this year for two days -- June 26 and 27.
If people flock to the festival for the stellar music lineup alone, that's just dandy, according to Joshua Elling, executive director of
Jefferson East Business Association (JEBA), the festival's presenting organization. But there's more to the story.
"We believe festivals can be important economic development tools," he says, with the following stats to back up the notion: Since Jazzin' began, the district has seen 50 facade improvements, a decline in the commercial corridor's vacancy rate by 10 percent and more than 10 new businesses.
What's the correlation? Part of the answer is simply the ripple effects of bringing people to the area en masse -- 20,000 attended last year, and organizers are planning for double that this year -- and letting them see for themselves the neighborhood's historic and modern housing amenities, chain and independent retailers, and 140 acres of riverfront parks. Also worth noting is that this year's proceeds will directly fund the establishment of a community-owned security patrol.
Attendees will be able to preview the H&H Marketplace Bazaar, a retail incubator set to open this summer in an adaptively reused two-story building at 14522 E. Jefferson. Three other major developments are poised to pop in the area as well, including a mixed-use renovation of three apartment buildings that will ultimately result in 47 loft-style apartments and 17,000 square feet of retail, the development of a 100-unit independent senior living complex and a group of artists setting up shop in the former Platte Motor Building.
Jazzin' on Jefferson will take place Saturday, June 26, and Sunday, June 27, from noon to 9 p.m. on a closed-off section of East Jefferson between Chalmers and Alter. Headliners include Joe Krown Trio! and the Hot Club of Detroit. Other performers include the Thornetta Davis Band, Marion Hayden & the Detroit Legacy Band and Sky Covington & Trio. Sunday will feature outdoor church service and an emphasis on gospel to "celebrate the rich spiritual history of the lower east side," says Elling.
Other festival features include the Target Kids Zone, a 5-on-5 Basketball Tournament, Detroit Artist Gallery and over 30 food and retail vendors.
Source: Joshua Elling, JEBA
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
The arrival of spring heralds the digging of dirt, if
The Greening of Detroit's ambitious 2010 schedule has anything to say about it. From April 10 to June 5, about 1,750 trees will be planted citywide in 14 separate plantings. Greening, in partnership with the City of Detroit's General Service Department, will plant 680 trees that will reforest neighborhoods affected by the Emerald ash borer infestation; And about a thousand trees will be planted with over 16 community groups and block clubs.
The schedule is as follows: April 10, University District and Annchester street tree plantings; April 17, Warrendale and E. Outer Drive; April 24, Trumbull and Corktown tree nursery; April 20, East English Village; April 22, Grandmont Rosedale tree nursery; April 25, Creekside; May 1, Boston Edison and Virginia Park; May 8, Beresford Block Club and Osborn Neighborhood; May 15, Hartwell and West Grand Boulevard; May 22, Ecclesia and Pallister Park; June 5, Ferdinand.
More than 1,000 volunteers will be needed; contact Greening at 313-237-8733 to sign up for a planting.
Greening's annual Tree and Shrub Sale will take place on Saturday April 24, from 9 a.m. to noon at Eastern Market's Shed #6. Trees are $30 and shrubs are $20, with special rates offered to Greening members. Pre-orders are being taken now; order forms can be found at www.greeningofdetroit.com.
The Greening's urban agriculture initiative, the Garden Resource Program Collaborative provides training and resources to individuals, community groups and families that grow vegetable gardens. Interested individuals should contact Lindsay Turpin at 313-237-8733.
Source: Monica Tabares, Greening of Detroit
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Sangaris Salon will open at 14704 E. Jefferson between Chalmers and Alter this spring. Proprietor N'Aziza Henderson was motivated to set up shop on the east side's Jefferson corridor because "most natural hair salons in Detroit are on the west side, and I like the fact that I am in a historic area."
When Henderson says natural, she means it. She limits the usage of thermal devices such as hair driers, hot combs and curling irons, and does not use any chemicals to process hair. "Sangeris will be focused on care of natural hair, making sure hair is healthy," she says. "We're focused on health, not just styling."
Sangaris is named after a rare African butterfly that is very distinct in color from other butterflies. Similarly, Henderson says that her business "is going to stand out from other natural hair salons."
Source: N'Aziza Henderson, Sangaris Salon
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Community Development Advocates of Detroit (CDAD) is comprised of community development organizations from across the city. They built houses before lofts were all the rage, paving the way for for-profit market-rate ventures and, now that the housing market is kaput, they've turned their sights on talking about what's next for Detroit. About a year ago, they formed a Futures Task Force, and the first deliverable is a document entitled "
Neighborhood Revitalization Strategic Framework." It looks at the concept of right-sizing, down-sizing or reinventing Detroit -- whatever you want to call it -- and makes a set of recommendations that, hopefully, will guide policy-makers, elected officials and the funding community when they start tackling the heated issue.
"(The strategic framework) is about reinventing Detroit so that it is a better place for people to live in," says Tom Goddeeris, executive director of
Grandmont Rosedale Development Corporation and a Futures Task Force participant. "It's how to think about how to improve it in a way that recognizes that there is lots of vacant land, (there are lots of) vacant buildings and we don't have the population that we once had...We wanted to put forward an idea about the city that says that it can be a better place, a greener place, a more economically viable place."
The community development community has always operated on the notion that rebuilding a city means building more houses. The strategic framework they've released abandons that principle, instead looking at numerous different ways -- be that open space, greenways, urban farms or even traditional neighborhoods -- that Detroit might evolve. "These are concepts to get people thinking a different way as opposed to going back to some previous time where (success meant) more people and more businesses," says Goddeeris. Along with drawing other stakeholders into the conversation, he says a goal of the collaborative is to show that "there can be a vision for reinventing the city in a way that is looking to make it a better place, not as an exit strategy or a sign of defeat."
While the concept of right-sizing holds allure in some camps and -- shades of Poletown -- horror in others, Goddeeris stresses the point that much work can be done before relocation is even close to a reality. "There are parts of the city that we can immediately start strengthening and some that we can immediately start greening without having to displace a bunch of people," he says.
Source: Tom Goddeeris, Grandmont Rosedale Development Corp. and CDAD
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
The Data Collaborative, a joint effort by the
Detroit Office of Foreclosure Prevention and Response,
Community Legal Resources and
Data Driven Detroit, has completed a landmark survey of residential properties in Detroit, and the results indicate that 86% of the city's single-family homes appear to be in good condition and another 9% generally only need minor repairs -- meaning that more than 218,000, or 95%, of the city's single-family homes appear to be suitable for occupancy.
While this number sounds heartening, Heidi Mucherie, executive director of Community Legal Resources, urges some restraint in interpreting the numbers. "We have some good-condition housing stock, an asset that we don't fully realize as an asset, and I'm glad that the study substantiates that," she says. However, she points out that large areas of the city have nowhere near these statistics. "This is a citywide aggregate number, and while we might be tempted to say things aren't as bad as we thought they are, (conditions have) changed over the last 10 years, even in traditionally stronger neighborhoods, and I worry about the aggregate figures painting too rosy of a picture."
A statistic that bears out Mucherie's temperance is that 26% of the city's residential parcels -- or 91,000 lots -- are now vacant. But she believes that knowing the good and the bad of where the city currently stands is empowering. "The way I've been thinking about it is that it paints a picture of a moment in time. ... It's only the start, not the ultimate answer," she says. "(These communities are) changing daily, especially neighborhoods hit by foreclosures."
Mucherie says the data collected is only as good as its upkeep and the community's buy-in, as in getting the "community engaged to collect updated information and track how it changes over period of time," she says. "One snapshot in time is not going to provide the answer for very long, but I'm excited about it changing the conversation."
Interested in checking out information about your house, block and neighborhood? Information is easily accessed by visiting
www.detroitparcelsurvey.org and typing in a residential property address.
Source: Heidi Mucherie, Community Legal Resources
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Riverbend Plaza on E. Jefferson west of Chalmers has a number of new businesses, most notably an AAA Insurance office. The company had recently closed its other office in the area. "We were able to get them back into the community," says Riverbend developer Michael Curis. "We've signed a bunch of new tenants, we are trying to keep services in the community."
Rent-A-Center just opened a store at Riverbend, another example of a business that Curis worked to bring back. Two had closed in the vicinity. Other businesses opening their doors include Sutton Drugs, The Weave Shop, Boost Mobile and Dollar Tree. Curis is currently in talks with a couple of other potential tenants. He attributes the retail plaza's ability to attract businesses to its security, design, location, management and quality tenants.
Curis' two other urban retail developments are likewise doing well. Mack/Alter Plaza is 100 percent leased and a fast food restaurant, Checkers, just opened at Shops at Woodward Place in Highland Park.
Retailers interested in locating at Riverbend Plaza should contact leasing agent Chris Webber at 248-353-9494.
Source: Michael Curis, Curis Enterprises
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
The first green home that
Community 1st Development built in Detroit, located in the Jefferson Chalmers area, was featured on an episode of "Renovation Nation," a show broadcast on Discovery's
Planet Green last week. The home profiled was built in May 2009. It is a 1,400-square-foot, three-bedroom, two-bathroom ranch with an attached two-car garage.
Since then, Community 1st has focused its attention on an area being called Paradise Valley Estates near Gratiot and Chene. Four new homes have been completed there, with another four currently being built. The first phase in the area will be a total of 20 homes but Mark Lewis, a Community 1st partner, hopes that his company builds many more homes in Detroit. "We can't get too far ahead of ourselves, so we're almost going on a block by block basis," he says. "(But Detroit has) so much vacant property, the bottom line for us, for our program, is an unlimited supply of lots to build homes on."
Community 1st offers five home models ranging from 1,300 to 2,100 square feet. They meet Michigan Green Built specifications and are Energy Star certified. The homes include an Energy Star Whirlpool appliance package, a high efficiency furnace and central air conditioning, enhanced wall and ceiling insulation, Energy Star light fixtures and exhaust fans and Pella windows.
The Planet Green episode featuring a Community 1st home will re-air on Tuesday, February 16 at 6 p.m. and Wednesday, February 17 at 10 a.m.
Source: Mark Lewis, Community 1st Development
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Harbortown Market got a boost towards its planned January reopening with a grant from the Detroit Economic Growth Association's (DEGA) Jefferson Avenue Retail Readiness Program. Four other projects, including the Elevator Building, were also approved for a total of up to $239,700 in grants, which is expected to leverage an additional $250,000 in private investment.
Harbortown Market, located at 3472 East Jefferson Ave., has been closed since a June 2009 fire. The DEGA grant is being used towards the purchase of a "gatekeeper" system that will keep carts from wandering out of the parking lot, a new entryway as well as other interior improvements. "It will be the same layout with improvements in every corner of the store," says owner Tom George, who was determined to reopen the store he has operated for 22 years because he "enjoy(s) the business...I love it here and I have very interesting clientele."
The Elevator Building is located at 1938 Franklin St. in the East Riverfront area. The grant funds will go towards building out the space into a multi-tenant business incubator. Read more about the project
here.
The other projects funded include interior and exterior repairs to the Bosquet Building at 1386 East Jefferson and improvements to a neighboring parking lot as well as a lot located at 3333 East Jefferson that is owned by Nullis Secondus and is also utilized by the
Players Club.
The Jefferson Avenue Retail Readiness Program is funded by a grant to DEGA from the
Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan. It provides financial incentives to improve properties along the Jefferson Avenue corridor from I-375 to McClellan Street. Property owners and tenants improving space for an identified commercial user can receive 50% matching grants to reimburse for the cost of interior and exterior improvements up to a maximum of $100,000 for buildings and $30,000 for parking lots. The Detroit Economic Growth Association is a non-profit economic development organization administered by the
Detroit Economic Growth Corporation.
Sources: DEGC and Tom George, Harbortown Market
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, November 03, 2009
Jefferson East Business Association will host its 13th annual meeting from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12, at Cliff Bell's, 2030 Park Ave. in Downtown. There will be board elections, progress updates, gourmet hors d'oeuvres, the JEBA Awards and a private Jazz performance by Brad Felt and the Nu Quartet.
Individual tickets are $30, a table of four is only $100. To purchase tickets or for more information, please contact JEBA's office at 313-331-7939.
Meanwhile, a few new businesses have popped up at Riverbend Plaza in the JEBA district. Dollar Tree, which is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. and The Weave Shop, which is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m.
AAA insurance will be opening a branch office at the plaza soon, according to JEBA executive director Joshua Elling. State Farm has also relocated within the district to 14346 E. Jefferson Avenue. The office is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
One last thing: There are three plantings along E. Jefferson planned for November 7, 14 and 21 that will replace a total of 500 street trees from Alter Road to I-375. Plantings will begin at 9 a.m. rain or shine and run to about 1 p.m. Contact Anthony Todd at Greening of Detroit to volunteer: 313-237-8733 or
anthony@greeningofdetroit.com.
Source: Joshua Elling, JEBA
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
The
Detroit Office of Foreclosure Prevention and Response has a tough job: keeping residents in their homes during an unprecedented mortgage meltdown coupled with record unemployment. In the years 2005 to 2008, it is estimated that 51,000 1- to 4-unit residences completed the foreclosure process in the city. "It's not over yet," says Diane McCloskey, the initiative's director of community initiatives. "We're hoping we are through the worst."
To accomplish its goal the Office of Foreclosure, while working closely with banks and
community funders like Skillman Foundation and Detroit LISC, aims to be
the Detroit clearinghouse for all things foreclosure-related, meaning
research, advocacy and relationship- and capacity-building for
other community groups helping their residents avoid foreclosure.
A top priority is letting people know their options, which is where
ForeclosureDetroit.org comes in. McCloskey says the website is intended to be user-friendly for people of varying levels of computer savviness. "Foreclosures affect people of all economic, racial and social backgrounds," she says. "People make assumptions that people know where to go (for help), but they have no idea where to reach out (to) -- we needed a way (to give them information) quietly, in the privacy of their own home...sitting at a friend's house or the library."
The site details resources for people in various places on the spectrum of foreclosure trouble -- from someone who hasn't even missed a mortgage payment yet to someone who has already lost their home.
Community meetings on the foreclosure issue are headed to various Detroit neighborhoods in the coming months, with planning underway for a larger summit before the end of the year.
Source: Diane McCloskey, Office of Foreclosure Prevention and Response
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Community Development Advocates of Detroit (CDAD) is a trade association for the city's more than 60 community development corporations. At the end of 2008, the group decided to create an emergency task force to help its members deal with the financial crisis through advocacy, resource identification and technical assistance.
Growing from that work, the committee, now called the Futures Task Force, has released a set of land use recommendations for Detroit that include some concepts that are being discussed by many -- such as the repurposing of vacant land -- but with an added focus on the importance of community development organizations in the work to be done. "What we're saying is not radically different (than what others are saying)," says Tim Thorland, CDAD's chairperson and executive director of
Southwest Housing Corp."(Our vision) is nuts and bolts, what organizations with resources that they have identified think they can accomplish based on practical ideas from people that live in these neighborhoods."
CDAD's recommendations call for a bold new vision for Detroit, one that targets resources into denser neighborhoods and requires unprecedented collaboration. And what community development corporations bring to this table, besides a proven track record of real estate development, is the voice of the community, says Thorland. "(It's) necessary to the success of whatever plan you want to implement and it's the one asset we have that nobody else does," he says. "It's in an honest and meaningful way, not window dressing...We've been doing this for 30 years in the best interest of the community, what the community has told us that they want."
CDAD plans to shop its plan to city officials and foundations. Read the entire set of recommendations
here.
Source: Tim Thorland, CDAD and Southwest Housing Corp.
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
The
Jefferson East Business Association (JEBA) and
Creekside Community Development Corporation recently received a grant from Michigan’s
Cool Cities Initiative to develop a wayfinding system for
the neighborhoods, which are located on Detroit’s lower eastside. Coupled with
money from the
Local Initiative Support Corporation, this grant
will fund the placement of a large neighborhood information kiosk at
the Jefferson/Chalmers intersection as well as four wayfinding signs.
"The goal of this project is to highlight all of the wonderful
amenities on Detroit’s lower eastside," says Joshua Elling, Executive Director of JEBA. "People often forget that
this corner of the city is truly Detroit’s Green Coast with over 164
acres of riverfront parks, a robust Marina District, wonderful historic
homes, newly
built waterfront housing and the Historic East Jefferson Business
District."
JEBA and Creekside spent the summer working with four Wayne State University interns to develop a neighborhood amenity
map and on August 15, the interns led a design charette
and marketing focus group with over 17 neighborhood residents. "It allowed us to hear from residents as to how they
want to
market their neighborhood and provided us with some great ideas in
terms of
gateway sign designs," says Elling. "One idea
that came up was to explore the possibility of marketing this corner under the
old French name for the area -- Grand Marais -- in order to highlight its
connection to the water and the riverfront parks."
JEBA and Creekside are looking to finalize the signage
design this fall, with installation in early 2010. They will also
be convening more focus groups to develop a comprehensive marketing strategy.
Source: Joshua Elling, JEBA
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Hansen Playfield in the Creekside neighborhood got a major facelift last week when approximately 250 volunteers joined together to install brand new play equipment. The 2,500-square-foot area also got an overall cleaning, fencing repair and the installation of some garden beds.
Volunteers were gathered from within the neighborhood as well as from Home Depot and
KaBOOM, a national nonprofit organization that works to ensure that every child in America is within walking distance of a quality play area.
Located near St. Martin's Church on Drexel, Hansen was outfitted with antiquated play equipment until the City of Detroit recently removed it in anticipation of the arrival of the new equipment. Despite the equipment's age, the neighborhood kept the area up by picking up litter, trimming the grass and keeping it painted.
Since it was already important to the community,
Creekside Community Development Corporation executive director Karen Brown says it was easy to garner support for the volunteer day, which took place on August 6. "It was a lot of work, but a lot of fun," she says. "Thursday was a really special day and the playground is a really special place."
Source: Karen Brown, Creekside CDC
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Historic East Jefferson has gained a new business: Wi-Fi Cyber Cafe officially opened its doors on August 1, bringing coffee, soups, salads, sandwiches and, yes, wi-fi access to the neighborhood.
Owner Gabriel McNeil is from Brooklyn, New York, where he attended culinary school and worked for various corporations including Disney. In Detroit, he's had stints at Bert's Marketplace, Steve's Soul Food and Ya Mon Strickly Jerk.
Wi-Fi has seating inside and in the backyard. It is open 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Three nights a week feature entertainment: poetry on Wednesday, jazz and blues on Thursday and reggae and comedy on Friday.
W-Fi is at 14516 E. Jefferson near Chalmers. Call 313-469-9864.
Source: Gabriel McNeil, Wi-Fi Cyber Cafe
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Detroit Local Initiatives Support Corporation will invest $1 million annually for three years into the city's community development organizations. Its motivation? The current economic situation and its impact on the community development industry.
LISC wil offer $25,000 in operating support grants to over a dozen organizations. Several of the organizations will then receive additional financial support, technical organizational assistance and business planning assistance.
LISC hopes to help CDCs become recession-proof by strengthening, adapting, changing or merging -- whatever it takes.
For one of the grantees, Greater Corktown Development Corporation the grant has been a welcome infusion, but it has also meant they've had to evolve. "LISC offered up technical assistance, (helped us look at things in an) entrepreneurial approach to sustainability," says executive director Tim McKay. "We got included in their $3 million initiative to help us reorganize our office, to sustain us through this kind of difficult time, to give us a business plan and to strategize to develop a revenue stream -- which was much needed and much welcome."
Other community development organizations awarded operational funds are Bagley Housing Association, Southwest Detroit Business Association and Urban Neighborhood Initiatives (formerly Neighborhood Centers, Inc.) in Mexicantown and Southwest Detroit; Grandmont Rosedale Development Corporation; Creekside CDC and Jefferson East Business Association on the lower Eastside; Messiah Housing Corporation in The Villages; Warren Conner Development Coalition and U SNAP BAC on the East Side; Vanguard CDC, Central Detroit Christian CDC and New Center Council in the New Center/Central Woodward area; Detroit Community Initiative in the Van Dyke/Eight Mile area and citywide agencies Focus: HOPE and Wayne County Child Care Coordinating Council.
Source: LISC and Tim McKay, GCDC
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Giffel Webster Engineers and
ASTI Environmental hosted a breakfast on June 5 to begin moving towards a comprehensive vision for Jefferson Avenue in Detroit. Invitees included neighborhood stakeholders, such as
Jefferson East Business Association and
The Villages CDC, and other interested parties such as
Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance and
Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan (CFSEM).
Scott Clein, an associate at GWE, was motivated to start the conversation after participating in charettes for the area that CFSEM hosted with noted transportation planner Ian Lockwood. "He came up with high level concepts, ideas of what Jefferson could be," says Clein. "I wanted to see if we could do something to keep those ideas that the Community Foundation helped foster from remaining just ideas."
Clein is hoping the breakfast is a first step in creating an action plan for the entire corridor from downtown to Grosse Pointe. "It's a very wide roadway, some of it has a boulevard and some of it is not a very people-friendly place," he says. "It suffers from the ills that other major streets that developed in Detroit [are suffering from]."
From a transportation perspective, Clein explains that the street's width is no longer necessary because of the freeway system, and could be used in other ways such as for non-motorized transportation and increased on-street parking.
The studies necessary to effect this type of wholesale change are most efficiently and economically performed at once for the whole corridor rather than in pieces, and collaboration would also provide an opportunity ensure that all individual efforts are cohesive. Unique needs for different neighborhoods -- such as wider sidewalks in a business district -- would also be taken into consideration in the planning process.
Clein says the short-term goal will be to obtain funding for a Jefferson Avenue Framework Plan so that the City of Detroit and MDOT will have hard engineering to consider when each organization tries to move forward on their own improvement plans. "This will make the lives of individual groups 100 times easier," he says. "The debate is then simply, 'How do we find money?'"
Source: Scott Clein, GWE
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Is your neighborhood a better place because of the efforts of your local community development corporation? If so, nominate it for Detroit Local Initiatives Support Corporation's (LISC) 9th Annual Detroit Community Development Awards.
The first category, CDC of the Year, will go to a comprehensive organization that builds houses and maybe even takes on commercial development. It delves into community issues of all stripes and probably is involved in a park or greenway project.
The second category, Community Champions, is for ordinary citizens that go to extraordinary lengths to improve their neighborhood. There will be five winners of this award, one in the following geographic areas: Central Woodward, East, Northeast, Northwest and Southwest. Additionally, three organizations will be designated as Community Champions.
Nomination forms and additional information are available at
www.detroit-lisc.org. They are due on Friday, July 17 and will be handed out at the awards ceremony in September.
Source: Detroit LISC
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
This week, public radio station
WDET 101.9 FM launched a special series, "Facing the Mortgage Crisis: Home Is More Than
Our House," that will air over the next seven weeks. Starting next week, Model D will also present a series of stories on the topic. The media partners will join together on June 24 for a Speaker Series that will delve into the subject matter from yet another angle.
Model D publisher Brian Boyle sees an opportunity for the local coverage to reveal individual neighborhood responses to the crisis. "In this market, with everything being so cheap, you don't have to wait for a program," he says. "Individuals are doing some of the more innovative things."
Listeners and readers will learn about volunteer opportunities and other ways to take action. WDET also will host a blog at
on its web site that will compile all information reported on-air.
Sign up for the Model D speaker series here, and follow WDET during its news programs like Detroit Today for more from the series.
Source: WDET and Brian Boyle, Model D
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
The Detroit Greenways Coalition has released a nifty map and guide to greenways that exist and are planned in Detroit, Highland Park and Hamtramck. Entitled "Building Pathways that Unite a City," the brochure unfolds to a full-color map that reveals off-road and on-road routes all over town, some denoted as existing, some as planned and a few that are merely conceptual at this time.
There are ten main greenways described:
- Conner Creek Greenway: Nine miles of pathways that will roughly follow the route of the former Conner Creek on the eastside, from the Detroit River to Eight Mile. Two miles are complete.
- Corktown-Mexicantown Greenlink: 16.25 miles that will connect Corktown and Mexicantown to each other and to the West Riverfront. The plan is complete and community groups are hoping to see construction begin this fall.
- Dequindre Cut: This two-mile rail-to-trail project will run two miles between the East Riverfront, Lafayette Park and Eastern Market up to Mack. 1.2 miles of it are complete and open to the public.
- Detroit RiverWalk: A stretch of public river access targeted to pedestrians and cyclists that will eventually stretch 5.5 miles between the Ambassador Bridge and Belle Isle; 2.7 miles are complete.
- Downriver Delta Greenways: Located in the 48217 zipcode on the lower Southwest side of Detroit, this 2.5 mile greenway will run along Fort Street into Downriver when built.
- Hamtramck Trail: This 1.5 mile route will connect Hamtramck's downtown to its parks. Eventually, hopes are to tie it into the Dequindre Cut on its south end.
- Inner Circle Greenway: Mostly conceptual at this time, the vision for the Inner Circle Greenway is a 20-mile route that would make use of the abandoned Detroit Terminal Railroad right-of-way. Picture a Dequindre Cut that take a roughly half-circle route through Detroit, Hamtramck and Highland Park.
- Midtown Loop: Work is expected to begin this summer on this two-mile loop through the Cultural Center. Future plans include connections to New Center and Downtown.
- Southwest Detroit Greenway: This 3-mile greenway connects Woodmere Cemetery, the West Vernor business district, Patton Park and Dearborn's Lapeer Park. Hopes are to run it further east to Clark Park in Mexicantown.
The purpose of the map is to inform, but also to "sell the vision," says Todd Scott of the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance, the organization that coordinates the Detroit Greenways Coalition. The target audience is residents, elected officials and funders.
Copies of the map will be available on the RiverWalk during the upcoming
RiverDays event, June 19-21.
Source: Todd Scott, Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
On May 13, the first green home will be built in the Alter Commons development in the Jefferson Chalmers neighborhood.
The modular home will be 90 percent complete -- from paint on the walls to floor coverings -- when it is placed onto a pre-dug basement. Its effcient, quality-controlled factory construction is one way that developer Community 1st was able to ensure the home meets stringent sustainability standards. There are five floorplans, ranging from 1,300 to 2,100 square feet.
Community 1st's project captured the attention of Discovery Channel
subsidiary network Planet Green’s "Renovation Nation," and the construction will be filmed for an upcoming episode.
After factory certification, the home will again be rated by a third party to achieve Michigan Green Built and Energy Star
certifications. The goal: environmental consciousness, yes, but also long-term affordability for the homeowner via reduced utility bills, says Mark Lewis of Community 1st.
Six homes of 30 planned for the area have been pre-sold. Community 1st has two other developments planned -- one on the Near East Side called Paradise Valley Estates, expected to break ground this summer, and another in Inkster. All will be affordable and green.
Homebuyers are eligible for up to $60,000 in downpayment assistance, but must take financial literacy courses and be approved by a bank for a mortgage.
Community 1st is partnered with Detroit-native and former NBA player Willie Burton’s Roundball
Development and Jewell’s Place International, a nonprofit agency committed to sustaining viable communities.
Source: Mark Lewis, Community 1st
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
The
Jefferson East Business Association has been busy improving their stretch of the E. Jefferson corridor between St. Jean and Alter.
- Tonight, May 5, from 6 to 8 p.m., JEBA is hosting a real estate and design committee meeting that will focus on planning streetscape improvements along E. Jefferson. Registration is required; call 313-331-7939.
- On May 12 is JEBA's monthly small business start-up workshop from 6 to 8 p.m.; the organization also offers one-on-one small business counseling every Tuesday by appointment. To register for JEBA's "Vision to Reality" seminar (there is a fee associated with the workshop) or the counseling, please contact Acquanetta Sproule at 313-331-7939.
-
JEBA's second quarter membership meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 27 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The focus will be on helping business owners leverage historic designation benefits. The speaker is Kristine Kidorf of Kidorf Preservation Consulting. For more information or to register, contact JEBA's office at 313-331-7939.
- Later this summer, JEBA will bring back Jazzin' on Jefferson -- save Saturday, June 27 for the street party featuring headliner jazz pianist Johnny O'Neal.
- Finally, Greening of Detroit will be planting 500 trees -- including elms and cedars -- along Jefferson from I-375 to Alter.
Source: JEBA
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
A trio of entrepreneurs called F.O.O.D. (Field of Our Dreams) has started a mobile fresh produce stand that hits several East Side neighborhoods on its route each Thursday. In its fifth week, and with the support of the
Capuchin Soup Kitchen, F.O.O.D. has three stops -- Butzel Family Center, Sheridan Place Apartments and across the street from the Parkstone Apartments in West Village -- and is looking to add more.
Warren Thomas says the goal is to do this year-round and add more and more Michigan and Detroit-grown products as the growing season progresses.
The current route schedule for Thursdays is as follows:
- Butzel Family Center, 7737 Kercheval St., 11:30 a.m.
- Sheridan Place, 7501 E. Jefferson, late afternoon
- Parkstone Apartments, Parker and Agnes, 5 to 7 p.m.
For information, contact outreach coordinator Lisa Richter at
earthworks@cskdetroit.org or (313) 579-2100 X 204.
Source: Lisa Richter, CSK and Warren Thomas, F.O.O.D.
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
The State of Michigan L
and Bank Fast Track Authority is making its inventory of nearly 7,000 vacant lots statewide -- 6,000 in Detroit alone -- available as community gardens via its
Garden for Growth program.
"Our goals, in addition to finding productive uses for these vacant plots, is to support the Governor's Urban Food Initiative," says Carrie Lewand-Monroe, the Michigan Land Bank's executive director. "We're hoping to help allow folks in urban areas to access fresh, healthy food."
The way it works is that any community member can apply to garden a lot in the Michigan Land Bank for $50 for one year. At that point, participants are able to put in an application to purchase the land.
This lease-first approach is considered a "best practice" for programs of this type for two reasons: It allows time for the garden to be established and it keeps it tax-free for the first year. The Land Bank is willing to flexible with lease terms; it is working with
The Greening of Detroit on five parcels that will be leased for five years.
Any kind of garden is eligible: native plants, flowers and vegetables -- even a park, says Lewand-Monroe. All gardeners will be connected with the Greening of Detroit's Garden Resource Program for classes and planting material.
Lewand-Monroe explains why 7,000 of the Michigan Land Bank's 8,000 properties are vacant lots: because they are all foreclosed properties that date back to 1999, which was when tax laws changed. "There aren't as many structures as the county would have," she says.
They also administer a Side Lot program for vacant lots that are adjacent to occupied residences. To search for a property, use the Land Bank's web site
Search for Property feature. The
application for the Garden for Growth program is also available on the site.
Source: Carrie Lewand-Monroe, Michigan Land Bank
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
The Detroit Department of Transportation will receive $37.5 million in economic stimulus funds, which will be used to update its fleet and facilities. In a statement, Mayor Ken Cockrel, Jr. pledged to "put the money to good use, making
travel in Detroit a more enjoyable experience.”The funds will replace
50 older DDOT buses with 50 new buses, including gas-electric hybrid
vehicles. The money also will pay for new bus shelters; new bus stop
signs, such as those at Woodward and Warren and Woodward and Mack; and the improvement of the Shoemaker Terminal and
Garage at St. Jean and East Warren. (Model D writer and bus riding convert Terry Parris Jr.
wrote about the need for better signage and shelters here.)
In other transportation funding for the city, the Department of Public Works will receive $37.5 million for road resurfacing. This $59.3 million package is the second for Detroit from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
of 2009; the first was more than $30 million in weatherization funds.
The Southeast
Michigan Council of Governments will administer the distribution of any economic
stimulus funds involving transportation in Southeast Michigan. The agency has
indicated the transportation money for Detroit will be available by the end of the month.
Source: City of Detroit
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Detroit LISC invested $30.5
million into Detroit community
and neighborhood development in 2008, which is the
largest annual investment made in
its 19-year history in the city. Most of this money was spread among 30 community development partners in its
five targeted geographic areas: Central Woodward ($22.1 million); East
($980,000); Northeast ($614,000); Northwest ($346,000); and Southwest ($5.5
million).
Two prime examples of LISC's support include an equity investment of $12.5 million in New Market Tax Credits for the rehabilitation of the Argonaut Building in New
Center and $4.2 million of Low Income Housing Tax Credits for two apartment rehabs in Southwest
Detroit.
LISC is also providing operating funds to community development corporations with which it works -- helping to keep their doors open in tough fundraising times. "With the economic situation, which is just unprecedented, we have to be able to be nimble and flexible and work with our partners on the ground," says development officer Jacqueline Burau. "We are
tweaking our financing to meet the need, to make things happen in the community." Recoverable grants for predevelopment work have also been upped, which help projects get off the ground early in the process. Despite the state of the housing market, Burau says that LISC remains committed to their brick and mortar mission. "
Most of our investment continues to go to physical development, whether that be housing or commercial," she says.
LISC is able to ride out the current funding storm because it raises money in three-year chunks, meaning that money they are spending this year was raised in 2007.
Source: Jacqueline Burau, Detroit LISC
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
One month ago, Housing and Urban Development awarded the city of Detroit $47.1 million to stabilize housing in light of the current foreclosure crisis.
Before spending it, the city must develop a plan that is approved by Detroit City Council and then HUD. Last week, Planning and Development took the first step and presented the plan to Council's Economic Development Committee.
The plan focuses on three things: reversal of the decline of neighborhood housing values; significant elimination of blighted and abandoned structures; and stimulation of investment in and around targeted neighborhoods.
The plan can be downloaded at
PDD's site; public comment is welcomed until November 20 at 313-224-6380 or
NSP@detroitmi.gov. On Nov. 21, it will go to the full Council followed by submittal to HUD on Dec. 1.
Read more about the grant, the process and guidelines
here.
Source: Sylvia Crawford, PDD
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Four mini police stations have been opened in Detroit -- three on the East Side and one on the West Side. The stations will be staffed from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. by police officers and community volunteers.
One of the mini stations, located at 13206 E. Jefferson in Riverbend Shopping Plaza, will service the
Jefferson East Business Association (JEBA) commercial corridor. "Of course we're ecstatic that we have increased police presence in the district," says Sheila Jackson, JEBA's clean and safe initiative director.
JEBA had been lobbying for a mini station for years, but finally saw results with the installation of a new police chief and two new commanders in the Eastern District. A foot patrol and the re-establishment of a citizens radio patrol is also in the works. "The businesses and residents are encouraged to start working together with the police," says Jackson.
JEBA board member Mike Curis is donating spaces at Riverbend Plaza and Mack-Alter Square Plaza to the City of Detroit for use as mini stations. The other two are located inside St. John Hospital and Northwest City Hall.
Source: Sheila Jackson, JEBA
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Detroit City Council has adopted a non-motorized transportation plan as well as a resolution
urging Mayor Ken Cockrel Jr. to implement it. Among other things, the plan calls for more than 400 miles of bike lanes, as well as other improvements to pedestrian and bike facilities.
The Michigan Department of Transportation funded the plan's development; the city brought on
Giffels-Webster Engineers as consultants to design it.
Scott Clein of Giffels-Webster says that the adoption of the plan means many things to proponents of non-motorized transportation. For starters, MDOT will now attempt to incorporate its recommendations into any future roadway projects it undertakes in the city, such as the reconstruction of Michigan Avenue.
It also does the same for city departments like the Department of Public Works. "DPW is now in charge of supporting and, hopefully, implementing portions of the master plan," says Clein.
The adoption of the plan means that community groups working to establish bike lanes know that the government, at least on paper, is on board. Clein cites Greater Corktown Development Corporation's Corktown-Mexicantown Greenlink as an example. "Now they know that the city will be supportive instead of obstructionists," he says.
DPW is in the process of writing a letter of conceptual support to MDOT, a step necessary for the project to capture funds the state committed to it a few years ago.
Besides bike lanes, the plan looks at pedestrian safety via the separation of bikes and pedestrians and the continued improvements of sidewalks.
Read more about the plan
here.
Source: Scott Clein, Giffels-Webster
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Photo by
Marvin Shaouni
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
A bistro to be located in the first floor of the Kean Apartments has secured $100,000 in funding from the
Detroit Economic Growth Corporation's retail readiness program.Scott Veldhuis of the DEGC says the bistro is the first grantee of the program, but that the agency plans to spend $1 million on improving retail spaces in the East Jefferson corridor bounded by McClellan and I-375.
Upon reviewing the restaurant's application, "It looked to be an appropriate project," he says. The signing of the grant agreement and pulling of permits are next steps. Work will include relocating the tenant entrance to the east side of the building, exterior clean-up, installation of awnings, interior build-out and patio construction.
The project was approved by the Detroit Economic Growth Association (DEGA) Finance Committee; project developer Hibbard, LLC anticipates the restaurant will cost $350,000 in total.
Read more about the East Jefferson retail-readiness program
here. The Kean is located at 8901 East Jefferson Ave.
Source: Scott Veldhuis, DEGC
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
The
Community Foundation's Detroit Neighborhood Fund announced $4 million in grants to benefit Detroit’s near-eastside neighborhoods These are the first program grants to be made from the foundation's $15 million Detroit Neighborhood Fund, which was made possible by a partnership with the W. K. Kellogg Foundation and the Ford Foundation.
Grantees include:
$1.25 million to the Detroit Economic Growth Corp. for the
Jefferson Retail Readiness Program. A bistro to be located in the Kean Apartments has already been allocated $100,000 from the program.
Shorebank Enterprise Detroit was granted $150,000 towards the financing of
Downtown Foodland.
New Urban Learning will receive $1.5 million for site acquisition and construction of University Prep Science and Math High School to be built in the Riverfront Development District.
$250,000 to Communities in Schools of Detroit for the Riverfront Village Schools Initiative, which will work to build community partnerships in all 16 public and private schools in the area.
Friends School in Detroit was granted $225,000 for a community building initiative involving the Lafayette Park and Elmwood neighborhoods.
Economic Development Corporation of the City of Detroit will received $100,000 for planning of the extension of the Dequindre Cut across Gratiot into Eastern Market.
Other grantees include the
Detroit Riverfront Conservancy ($500,000), Adult Well-Being Services ($150,000) and a partnership between Adult Well-Being Services and
Villages Community Development Corp. ($35,000).
Source: CFSEM
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
After breaking ground on two Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints meetinghouses in June 2006, construction of the second is complete. The congregation will celebrate with a public open house Sept. 20-21. It is located at 2600 14th St. at I-75 in North Corktown.
The first chapel, dubbed the Detroit River Chapel, is located at 4200 Conner Street and opened in June.
Approximately 100 people worship at the North Corktown meetinghouse; about half are Spanish-speaking. The services are given in two languages with translation available via headphones provided by the church.
The public open house runs from 3-5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 20 and from 2-5 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 21. The North Corktown congregation joined with other Metro Detroit Mormons on Sept. 13 for a Clark Park clean-up to demonstrate their commitment to the surrounding community.
Source: Kristen Gough, LDS Church Detroit
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
Chrysler LLC will invest $1.8 billion to upgrade and expand its Jefferson North Assembly Plant on East Jefferson at Conner. The company plans to increase production at the facility beginning in 2010.
The corporation's goal is for Jefferson North to be able to adapt to the next generation of vehicles to be built in Detroit, which calls for increased manufacturing flexibility and capability and the implementation of green initiatives.
In terms of the former, a 285,000-square-foot addition will replace the existing body shop and changes will be made in the paint and assembly operations.
As for the latter, energy efficient fixtures and energy management systems will be installed, along with an air filtration system; paint sludge will be used as an energy source; unused parking lots will be replaced with grass; fuel consumption and transportation costs will be evaluated and reduced; and paint chips and parts racks will be reused.
Jefferson North was built in 1991 and is currently 2.7 million square feet. It was expanded once already, in 1999, and produces the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Commander. In light of recent Labor Day excitement, it seems appropriate to note that the plant is a member of United Auto Workers Locals #7, #889 and #412.
Source: Ed Saenz, manufacturing and customer office communications, Chrysler LLC
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
There are some great opportunities coming up to see Detroit from the luxury of your own, or a rented, bike. The best part of these tours is that they take you into the city's neighborhoods at a pace that affords participants the chance to admire the architecture and get a real feel for the places.
The annual
Tour de Troit is Saturday, Sept. 20. Take in 40 miles of the city at a leisure pace with several hundred of your closest friends. It's a police escorted ride through Downtown, Eastern Market, Brush Park, Boston Edison, University District, Palmer Park, Old Redford and Grandmont-Rosedale.
Last year 600 people participated. Advance registration is strongly encouraged to guarantee a T-Shirt. Register by Sept. 13 to ensure you'll get one. Advance Registration is $25, $15 for students. Day-of-ride registration is $35 from 8:30-9:30 a.m.
But wait, there's more.
Wheelhouse Detroit, the city's newest bike rental and repair shop, is also offering weekly tours of Detroit's neighborhoods. Each week, they feature a different portion of the city, and most rides are around 15-25 miles. Upcoming tours include Southwest Detroit (9/13), The Villages (9/27), Boston Edison (9/28), Creekside (10/04) and the Conner Creek Greenway (10/5). Wheelhouse also offers weekly tours of Downtown and the Woodward corridor, offered in conjunction with
Inside Detroit. For more information and pricing, check their
web site.Sources: Wheelhouse Detroit, Tour de Troit
Writer: Clare Pfeiffer Ramsey
Today, the Wayne County Land Bank will release a list of their inventory of 7,000 tax-reverted parcels. Qualifying non-profit organizations and adjacent residential
landowners will be able to purchase property for a nominal fee as long as they
adhere to certain criteria that includes maintaining and/or
rehabilitating the property.
Properties will be disposed of on a first-come, first-served basis to qualifying entities.
The Land Bank is a collaborative effort between County Executive Robert Ficano and Treasurer Raymond Wojtowicz. The process begins today at 3 p.m. with an informational session for qualified non-profits. Further information is available at the Land Bank website.
Source: Jill Ferrarri,
Executive Project Manager, Wayne County
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
In an effort to instigate a citywide dialogue about historic buildings that are in danger of demolition,
Preservation Wayne — now called Preservation Detroit — has released a list entitled Endangered Buildings List 2008. It includes iconic structures like the Michigan Central Station, Lee Plaza Apartments, Forest Arms and the Vanity Ballroom.
The list also draws attention to several broader categories such as religious buildings no longer in use, retired schools and foreclosed single family houses.
"These are widespread issues that will require widespread solutions," says the organization's executive director Francis Grunow. "A wholesale approach is a better
approach."
Conversation about endangered buildings was a focal point of the group's annual membership meeting that was held on Thursday, May 22 at the Detroit Boat Club on Belle Isle -- another structure on the list.
At the event, which was attended by 150, Grunow also made the announcement that the organization was changing its name to Preservation Detroit. "It's exciting and very long overdue," he says.
Preservation Detroit host an awards ceremony on September 25 at the Colony Club on Park
Avenue and are inviting nominations, which are due on June 13 and can be
downloaded here:
http://www.preservationwayne.org/docs/Awards_Nomination_2008.pdf.
Source: Francis Grunow, Preservation Detroit
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance has created a new position dedicated to furthering a network of trails in Detroit.
The new Detroit greenways coordinator, Todd Scott, will coordinate maintenance, fundraising, security, programming,
promotions and development for the eight greenways under various stages of planning and development within the city.
Scott comes to the position with a great deal of experience in cycling advocacy. He is the former director of the
Michigan Mountain Biking Association and has been involved with numerous other initiatives, including the citizen’s committee for Michigan State Parks,
MDOT Metro Region Nonmotorized Advisory Committee, City of Ferndale
Bicycle Committee and the League of Michigan Bicyclists.
"Todd’s
skilled advocacy, wealth of knowledge about nonmotorized
transportation and recreation, and understanding of and enthusiasm
for the revitalization of Detroit are key ingredients that he brings
to this project," stated Nancy Krupiarz, Executive Director of
MTGA.
Scott is currently acclimating himself to the various greenways projects on the table, including the Midtown Loop, Corktown-Mexicantown Greenlink and Connor Creek Greenway. "The greenways in Detroit have so much variety in terms of where groups are at," says Scott.
"I'm finding that there are similar challenges and
different challenges."
Finding affordable liability insurance for the nonprofits sponsoring the various greenways was Scott's first task. He also hopes to work on integrating Detroit's burgeoning trails network with the larger regional one and has some ideas about encouraging on-road cycling. "One thing that I really bring to the table because I ride so much is that I know how to get around," he says. "We can make connections between these trail networks."
Source: Todd Scott, MTGA
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
In October 2007, Model D kicked off a recurring series called D-Biz that is designed to draw attention to small businesses in Detroit that are unique or fill an important niche in their community.
Part of the reason we wanted to start this series was to highlight businesses that are not new but still deliver important services to Detroiters. The city's small businesses are a big part of what make Detroit's neighborhoods liveable, but they don't often get media attention.
As of last week, D-Biz has covered all of our featured neighborhoods. Here's a look at the 21 businesses in 19 neighborhoods that we've covered in the last six months, from bike shops to optical shops, from coffee shops to photo studios, and even a tennis racquet repair shop:
D-Biz will continue, and Model D encourages readers to share their neighborhood faves to be considered for coverage. Email
kellibkav@issuemediagroup.com with your ideas.
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
The
Jefferson East Business Association is banding together with its Grosse Pointe Park neighbors to improve the aesthetics of the Alter Road border between the two communities. The process begins with an April 19 design charrette that will be facilitated by JEBA's executive director, Joshua Elling.
The planning process and $35,000 of implementation is being funded by the
Local Initiatives Support Corporation as part of its Metro Detroit Regional Investment Initiative, an effort to bridge divides between Detroit and its neighboring suburbs.
Particular attention will be paid to four gateway intersections along the corridor: E. Jefferson, Charlevoix, Kercheval and Mack. JEBA has worked with students from the University of Michigan's Landscape Design Masters Program to generate concepts that will be used to kick start brainstorming at the charrette, "to help get the creative energy flowing," says Elling.
Once ideas are vetted and designed, Elling hopes to see construction get underway in late summer. For more information or to RSVP, contact him at 313-331-7939 or
jelling@jeffersoneast.org.
Source: Joshua Elling, JEBA
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tonight (April 1) at 6 p.m.,
Creekside Community Development Corp. will host an investor forum to highlight real estate investment opportunities in the neighborhood. Amenities, like unparalleled access to the Detroit River, will be discussed, as will a new acquisition and rehab loan product that
Shorebank Detroit has recently made available. Finally, individual properties that are currently for sale will be presented.
Sam Butler is Creekside's housing coordinator and says the event is intended to boost the already-considerable private investment the community has seen. "It is designed for someone who wants to buy a house," he says. "It could be a person who wants to buy
a house, fix it up and live in it themselves or it could be someone who wants to buy a duplex and make a bit of money on the side."
A third kind of attendee is expected to be landlords that are interested in acquiring several properties. Butler says he welcomes such investors. "Even if someone does buy several properties, we will know them," he says. "More outreach to
landlords is something we want to do."
The investor forum will be held at Creekside's offices, 1021 Manistique at E. Jefferson. Call 313-822-0062 for more information or to RSVP.
Source: Sam Butler, Creekside CDC
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Greening of Detroit is spreading its roots: it has expanded its Michigan Ave. office space by a third, to 3,000 square feet. The extra room was desperately needed: the organization will grow from nine employees in 2007 to 25 by the end of 2008.
The additional staff will be busy this spring planting season. Its core mission is reforesting the city, and tree plantings are scheduled weekly from April 19 through June 7, with an estimated 1,500 trees going into the ground.
Planting so many trees requires plenty of volunteers; call the office at 313-237-8733. A special call is out for hands at a May 17 planting in East English Village, for which 250 slots still need filling.
Greening is also a partner in the ever-growing (no pun intended)
Garden Resource Program, which supports urban agriculture in the city. Last year, over 5,500 residents participated in 220 family, 115 community and 20 school gardens. More than 120 tons of food were grown, and Greening is anticipating a 20% increase in both participation and output this year.
Little marketing is done to promote such an increase, says Greening's Ashley Atkinson. "It is literally growing down the street from house to house," she says. "It's really cool, committed people that we are attracting, and that's encouraging." Visit
GRP's website to find out how to sign up and when plant pick-ups and workdays are scheduled.
One last thing: Greening's annual tree sale is scheduled for April 19 at Eastern Market, but Atkinson recommends reserving plants ahead of time. With just a month to go, half of the 1,400 trees, bushes and shrubs are already sold.
Source: Ashley Atkinson, Greening of Detroit
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Photograph:
Marvin ShaouniMarvin Shaouni is the managing photographer for Model D &
Metromode
On the heels of their first quarterly membership meeting of 2008, the
Jefferson East Business Association is ready to take on new challenges in the coming months.
The meeting was focused on the organization's clean and safe initiatives; a new program was announced that will immediately be implemented. In partnership with the Detroit Police Department, Wayne County Sheriff's Office and local developers and churches, JEBA will begin an anti-loitering campaign that will attempt to return teenagers to school and find them suitable employment.
If this doesn't sound like economic development in the traditional sense, think again. "Loitering is a major issue on Jefferson Avenue," says Sheila Jackson, JEBA's director of membership and clean and safe initiatives. "Loitering deters potential customers from our businesses."
Additionally, the Sheriff's Department will begin an aggressive "zero tolerance" policy in the area that will target drug houses, prostitution, chop shops and abandoned vehicles. Meanwhile, the Detroit Police Dept. will operate its Weed and Seed program that works to deter crime with preventative measures.
In other news, a DTE Energy grant will enable JEBA to break ground this spring on a year-round vegetable garden that will utilize solar panels, a water retention system and "pods."
Last but not least, JEBA continues to focus on business attraction. "We're marketing existing businesses and we're marketing available properties," says Robin Duncan, the organization's
business development coordinator. "We're focusing on a big marketing push this year." Source: Sheila Jackson and Robin Duncan, JEBA
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
The City of Detroit has released a request for proposals for the development of 4,000 units of service-supported rental housing targeted to the homeless. The NEXT Detroit Permanent Supportive Housing
Initiative is looking for developers teamed up with service providers to deliver such a product.
The city, along with partner organization Detroit
Collaborative to End Homelessness Together, recently completed a ten year plan for the elimination of homelessness that calls for a three-pronged strategy: the development of permanent housing called for in this RFP along with prevention and rapid re-housing.
Elterro Carroll, deputy director of the planning and development department hopes that this first round will generate 250 to 500 units over the course of the next two years. He anticipates that applicants will be both teams of developers and service providers as well as single organizations, such as
Southwest Solutions, that already do both.
The RFP is deliberately vague as to the size and scope of proposed developments, leaving the door open for large projects sited on large parcels as well as smaller ones; types of housing called for include units designed to serve families, youth and the chronically homeless.
Prospective applicants
can pick up an RFP from PDD's Welcome Center on the second floor of Cadillac Tower. They also can view and download the
RFP at the City’s Website,
www.detroitmi.gov/pdd.
On
Feb. 27, applicants are invited to attend an RFP
information session at 10:30 a.m. in the department’s 23
rd
floor conference room. Completed proposals are
due on March
28 and development teams selections will be announced on
May 1. For more information call 313-224-1538.
Source: Elterro Trent Carroll, PDD
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Murray's Discount Auto has opened in Riverbend Plaza, taking over a nearly 5,000-square-foot space vacated by Simply Fashion. "It's the first auto supply store in the area," says Robin Duncan, Jefferson East Business Association's (JEBA) business development coordinator. "We like to see businesses come in that complement existing businesses without taking away from them."
JEBA is working hard to attract more businesses to their corridor by working with the Wayne County One Stop Shop and the city's Office of Neighborhood Commercial Revitalization. Their facade improvement grant can reimburse property or business owners half the value, up to $15,000, of improvements made to the exterior of their property.
The organization also works with entrepreneurs that are not yet ready for a storefront location and offers seminars to potential and existing business owners on various relevant topics.
JEBA hopes to attract a franchise or large chain to the district in 2008. "We want an anchor business, whether that be a sit-down restaurant or something with entertainment," says Duncan. "We want people to not just drive through Jefferson, but to see it as a destination."
Murray's is located at 13200 E. Jefferson and is open 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday. Call 313-822-9515.
The next business development seminar will be held on 6 to 8 p.m. Feb. 7 and will focus on business banking basics. Registration is free and
open to the public, but RSVP's are requested. Contact Duncan to do so or to request a full schedule. She can be reached at
313-331-7939 or
rduncan@jeffersoneast.org.
Source: Robin Duncan, JEBA
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
In an attempt to maximize efficiency and funding, three East Side business associations --
Jefferson East,
E. Warren Ave. and
Land, Inc. -- have banded together in the Detroit Far East Business Associations Collaborative. "We are three separate, distinct business strips, but we run parallel to each other right in a row," says E. Warren's Bill Swanson. "We were doing the same things for our own separate districts that could help everyone in all the districts."
The first service the collaborative is providing is a series of development seminars sponsored by Comerica Bank. The seminars run monthly through September and cover topics such as customer service, micro-loans, real estate finance and security.
Future collective efforts might include such activities as marketing and business attraction, which Swanson sees as a win for the East Side and the city as a whole. "Instead of one of us finding a potential business and it not choosing to locate in that district, we can provide them with other opportunities," he says. "Another district might suit their needs and ultimately benefit the entire region."
The next business development seminar will be held on Feb. 7 from 6 to 8 p.m. and will focus on business banking basics. Registration is free open to the public, but RSVP's are requested. Contact Robin Duncan at JEBA to do so or to request a full schedule. She can be reached at 313-331-7939 or
rduncan@jeffersoneast.org.
Source: Bill Swanson, E. Warren Ave. Business Association
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
The east riverfront continues to see the development of exclusive communities that are predicated on access to the water.
Morgan Waterfront Estates is a gated community of 43 homes and 16 condominiums that are priced up to $2.2 million.
There are eight different home styles available that range in size from 3,500 to 7,000 square feet and in price from $700,000 to $2.2 million. The names of the models are either Detroit-centric, suc as
The Hudson and
The Penobscot, or are maritime references like
The St. Clair and
The St. Lawrence.
The homes have full brick exteriors and three or four car garages as well as premium amenities like stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops and hardwood and marble floors.
As for the condominiums, there are two floor plans that have two bedrooms and two that offer three bedrooms. They are all single floor layouts, and range in price from $228,000 to $500,000. The smallest unit is 1,315 square feet and the largest measures in at 1,810.
So far, three condominiums and 17 homes are sold, according to sales director Kim Hardy. "They like the gated community, they like the amenities and they like the water access," she says. "These homes are something like you've never had in the city of Detroit: million dollar homes that are brand-new."
Morgan Waterfront Estates is located south of Freud and west of Lycaste. Its sales office is open seven days a week from noon to 6 p.m. and can be reached at 313-822-9740.
Source: Kim Hardy, Morgan Waterfront Estates
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Crosswinds'
Jefferson Village has developed some strategies to deal with the slower housing market.
The East Side development, bounded by Jefferson, St. Clair, the Detroit River and Lysette, has built and sold almost 100 units of single-family housing. Plans are to eventually have close to 300 homes.
It usually takes four to six months to build a home after purchase, but the developer also offers an "express" option in which homes can be occupied in 3 months or less, says Elizabeth Basmadjian, community sales manager for Jefferson Village. Crosswinds also offers a "We buy your home, you buy ours" program, in which the company purchases the buyer's current home.
Jefferson Village offers seven floor plans ranging from a 1,500-square foot ranch to a 3,300-square foot colonial. Prices start at $204,990 and top out at $289,990. All homes are NEZ-designated and have an unfinished basement, a covered front porch, a master suite and an attached two-car garage, with plenty of add-ons available.
Basmadjian says that many of the people that have already bought into Jefferson Village were already city residents, but were looking for a home with more of a suburban nature. "City residents love it. They get to stay in the city and get half off their taxes for 12 full years," says Basmadjian. "They get a beautiful new home and pay less than they would in the actual suburbs."
For more information, call the Jefferson Village sales office at 313-331-1000.
Source: Elizabeth Basmadjian, Crosswinds
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Ever wonder where to take your computer or printer in for a repair to a place that is not vaguely reminiscent of the store from the movie The 40 Year Old Virgin? And perhaps does not involve hopping on a freeway?
Try Trek Computers on E. Jefferson, a storefront shop that offers reasonably priced repairs to PC computers and printers.
Model D reader Libby Pachota recently had her HP printer repaired at Trek for $25. She realized her printer was broken after ink spilled into its innards. "I figured I could get online with HP or spend a couple of hours navigating a phone menu with some one far, far away," she says. "Or I could just take it to Donnie."
Donnie is Donnie Hall, a native east sider who opened Trek, in part, to increase the computer literacy of his neighborhood. The shop offers an open computer lab with hourly rates, as well as printing services.
All in all, Trek is a 19th century neighborhood storefront offering a distinctly 21st century service. The store is at 14708 E. Jefferson. Call them at 313-821-6170.
Source: Donnie Hall, Trek Computers
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Washington, D.C.-based
Social Compact has released initial findings from its study of Detroit demographics. The numbers revealed by their DrillDown approach paints a wealthier and more populous picture of Detroit than does the Census.
This is good news for the
Detroit Economic Growth Corp., which plans to use the information to attract retailers to the city. The findings include:
- The resident population of Detroit is 933,043, nearly 62,000 more than projected by the current Census population estimates.
- The average income of a Detroit household is $48,000 as opposed to the 2000 Census estimate of $40,900.
- There is $800 million of informal economic activity in Detroit's economy each year. This is income like tips, side-consulting, baby-sitting and the like that do not register on traditional market measures.
- The aggregate income of Detroit households, $15.8 billion, is $2 billion greater than indicated by 2000 Census estimates.
- At least $1.7 billion of resident retail spending is being leaked outside the city limits.
Traditional census methods tend to undervalue older urban cities for several reasons, one of them being a bias towards new home construction. "The bureau assumes that a certain percentage of homes built before 1940 are retired each year," says Social Compact president and CEO, John Talmage. "The burden rests on the city to prove otherwise."
Immigrants and intergenerational households are also often under-counted.
"This really creates better information for actual business people, developers and brokers," says DEGC project manager Olga Savic. The organization will work to educate these entities, along with government officials and community development corporations, as to how these numbers can be used to leverage commercial investment.
There will also be more surveying at the neighborhood level, which has the
potential to reveal even more residents and income. "The numbers are good enough to go after grocery stores now," says Talmage. "It's just going to get better."
Download a copy of the report
here.
Source: John Talmage, Social Compact and Olga Savic, DEGC
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Any slightly-observant Detroit resident -- or even an intermittent Model D reader -- has likely noticed that new businesses are sprouting up all around the city. It's just not happening quickly enough for a couple of local entrepreneurs who have started Open City, a networking group for would-be Detroit business owners.
Over 60 people, a mix of aspiring and actual business owners, attended the group's kick-off meeting at Cliff Bell's on September 18. "We wanted to introduce people to the concept of having a group whose purpose is simply to encourage them and educate them about opening a business in Detroit in an informal manner," says co-founder Liz Blondy of
Canine to Five Detroit Dog Daycare.
Blondy and her cohort, Clare Nelson of
The Bureau of Urban Living, realized that there were plenty of hurdles standing in the way of starting up a business in Detroit, such as red tape, the perception that the city is unsafe and is not a place where money can be made. Start-up financing is also an issue.
They think the effort is worth it. "People will be so appreciative. They will notice it more then if you
open in the suburbs," Blondy said in her opening remarks. "You’ll get more PR for opening in Detroit.
Detroiters crave new exciting businesses. Being located in Detroit
will help distinguish your business. A high end modern furniture store
in Birmingham? There are like four of them. In Detroit, it is unique."
Detroiter Dave Mancini has been contemplating opening up a pizza parlor in the city for several years. "I gave up on Detroit, to be honest," Mancini says. "It was difficult to get in touch with the type of people I needed to get in touch with, and I was having trouble finding space that was not prohibitively expensive to rehab." He attended the meeting as a last-ditch effort at the urging of a friend.
He's glad he did. "There was such good energy from so many people," Mancini says. He was greatly encouraged by keynote speaker Jackie Victor of Avalon Breads. "Having talked to her made me feel better about my prospects down here," he says. "Since the meeting, I've been making more calls. I realize that I haven't turned over every rock yet."
Open City's next meeting will take place October 16. For more information, contact Blondy at
liz@caninetofivedetroit.com.
Source: Liz Blondy, Open City
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Saavy Detroit-observers recognize that the real workhorses of the development world are community development corporations (CDCs). Often the first to invest in an area, their work paves the way for market-rate development.
Every year, two of the CDC world's biggest supporters,
Detroit Local Initiative Support Corporation (LISC) and the Community Development Advocates of Detroit (CDAD) band together to recognize the year's biggest success stories in their community. At this year's luncheon, five CDCs and one individual were recognized.
The Masco CDC of the Year was awarded to the
Grandmont Rosedale Development Corporation (GRCD). The organization works to strengthen the Grand River commercial corridor with facade grants and infrastructure improvements, organizes a weekly farmer's market and will break ground on three new infill houses later this year.
"It's nice to get this kind of recognition every now and then," says executive director Tom Goddeeris. "We've been around for 18 years, and every year presents new challenges." GRDC is preparing to embark on its first-ever capital campaign to raise funds for its
new headquarters. "This process is a continuation from year to year, but this year we are branching out into some new things," he says. "We're pleased to have them recognize us for it."
Other awards presented include:
Model D wishes to extend our congratulations to the winners and our thanks to all of Detroit's hard-working CDCs.
Sources: LISC and Tom Goddeeris, GRDC
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
The United States Department of Homeland Security will be moving into a new building next year.
Tampa-based Birchwood Properties, a developer that works with the General Services Administration, purchased the former 5th Precinct building on E. Jefferson at St. Jean for $982,000. Birchwood will redevelop the site as an office building with a two-story parking structure and then lease it to the government.
The department looked all around the city before settling on this particular location. "They wanted to locate where they felt they would be making a significant contribution to the development of the area," says Larry Balone from Colliers International, who brokered the deal. "Birchwood sees promise in the Jefferson corridor."
The police vacated the building about a year ago and the city released a bid for the property in late 2006. "At that time, no one was able to execute any kind of purchase agreement that the city was happy with," Balone says. "We were able to buy it outright from the city."
The government held a ceremonial groundbreaking in August. Construction will begin in the spring once site plans are approved and the property is re-zoned. Construction is anticipated to be complete in August 2008. Balone says the developer is working to preserve a portion of the existing building, but that most of the structure will be new.
Homeland Security is currently housed at the Rosa Parks Federal Building on E. Jefferson at Mt. Elliott.
Source: Larry Balone, Colliers
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Creekside Community Development Corporation is helping to change the face of the lower east side. The group works to improve the area bounded by Connor, E. Jefferson, Alter and the Detroit River.
The organization will break ground in December on
Creekside West, 10 homes to be located on Kitchener Street south of Jefferson. The scattered site infill development includes two models of homes, the Kitchener and the Continental (pictured). Each style is approximately 1,300 square feet and will sell for $110,000 to income-qualified buyers.
Creekside West is in the vicinity of two previous housing developments that have already added 70 homes to the area.
Home repair grants are ongoing, says housing coordinator Sam Butler. "It is our most paramount issue. Much of this neighborhood is at a tipping point," he says. "Some houses just need a little bit of help."
Other programs include tree plantings conducted in partnership with the
Greening of Detroit, neighborhood recycling by
Recycle Here! held on the fourth Saturday of every month and regular home repair and ownership workshops. Creekside also partners with the Jefferson East Business Association on several programs.
Why Jefferson-Chalmers? The quick answer is the Detroit River. Maheras-Gentry, Ford, Mariner's and Lakewood East Parks all provide public access. On top of that, some of the homes in its easternmost portion back up to canals leading directly to the river.
Residents are also close to shopping in Grosse Pointe and Riverbend Plaza as well as several high-performing schools.
Sources: Karen Brown and Sam Butler, Creekside CDC
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Image courtesy Creekside CDC
There is plenty of summer left for kids to try out a new 2,700-square foot playground, donated to the City of Detroit by Firestone as part of the
Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix Initiative. The playground was dedicated on Belle Isle last Friday.
Located near Picnic Shelter #1, the playground has four swing-sets, monkey bars and a slide among other equipment. Perhaps its most unique component is the ground-surface material. Manufactured by Bridgestone Firestone and called
Flexi-Pave, it is impact-absorbing like the surface of most new playgrounds but it is also environmentally-friendly. Made from recycled tire, the surface material is porous so rainwater does not run off it.
Bridgestone Firestone has long had philanthropic activity in Detroit, with contributions to
Habitat for Humanity and the
Detroit Institute of Opthalmology. "This turns the dial up by being more
specific support," says Mike Martini, president, original equipment division, Bridgestone Firestone. "It's an excellent opportunity to move forward with the City of Detroit."
The playground cost over $60,000. Firestone's donation will be marked on the site by a plaque.
Source: Mike Martini, president, original equipment division, Bridgestone Firestone
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
The national office of
Local Initiatives Support Collaborative (LISC) has awarded its Detroit office $100,000 in its Building Sustainable Communities program. The grant will be used in the five areas of the city that the organization has targeted in its Neighborhoods NOW initiative.
LISC defines sustainable communities as those that are working to expand capital investment in housing and real estate development; increase family income, wealth and employment; stimulate local economic activity and connect to the regional economy; improve access to quality education and support healthy environment and lifestyles. "It is all of those kinds of things that lead to communities being able to be self-supporting," says Program Director Deborah Younger.
Although LISC has been primarily known for its efforts in real estate development, their reach has expanded with their Neighborhoods NOW efforts. "What we're saying is that we're going to do community development activities in these areas in every component, not just real estate," says Younger.
Neighborhoods NOW is a $100 million initiative overall. Detroit is one of eleven cities nationwide that is a demonstration site for the Building Sustainable Communities program.
Source: Deborah Younger, Detroit LISC
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
The giant concrete paddock and the early set-up of bleachers and concrete barriers has many Detroiters grumbling about the
Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix. Model D has tried to find some positives to combat the late-summer grumpiness.
Here's one: while certainly no bike ride, the organizers and sponsors of the event have definitely made more than a nod to the environment, primarily in the realm of alternative fuels.
The event consists of two different types of races, including the Detroit Sports Car Challenge -- race 10 out of 12 in the
American Le Mans Series. This competition features four different classes of cars simultaneously competing in the same timed event, as opposed to a lap race. Whichever car is leading after 2 hours and 45 minutes of driving, wins.
The Detroit Sports Car Challenge, presented by Bosch, is using the race to showcase clean diesel technologies in its Audi R10 TDI -- the vehicle currently leading the Le Mans series overall.
Although many people associate diesel with loud and smoky 16-wheelers, the latest diesel engines -- common in Europe and sometimes called light diesel -- are more fuel efficient and emit less carbon dioxide than standard gasoline engines (although NOx and particulate matter emissions are reported to increase). At last year's North American International Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz in particular put major focus on clean diesel technology.
In the other main event, the IndyCar Series
will be fueling its rides with 100% ethanol and the pace car will be a Honda Accord Hybrid. While most believe that ethanol use could create a nightmare for the bottom line of corn prices, the fuel is renewable, biodegradable and reduces carbon dioxide emissions.
Another positive aspect to the Grand Prix is its commitment to Belle Isle. All net proceeds go to a general improvement and preservation fund. The $100,000 already earmarked for the island will incrementally increase over the course of the race's initial five-year contract.
Source: Merill Cain, Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
The restoration of the Chauncey Hurlbut Memorial Gate at Water Works
Park is currently underway. The gate, which was completed in 1894, was
once a symbol of Detroit featured on postcards. "We want to reclaim
that symbol," says George Ellenwood, assistant director of the Detroit
Water and Sewage Department.
The restoration entails architectural and structural analysis, repair
and replacement of damaged limestone blocks, reconfiguration of the
park-facing stairway and repair of the eagle sculpture perched atop the
gate. Metal lighting fixtures were repaired when possible and
replicated when necessary by Detroit-based craftsman Carl Nielbock of
CAN Art Handworks. Concrete in front of the gate will be replaced with
grass and wrought-iron fencing.
Ellenwood says the restoration effort does have its limits. The
half-shells that most people suppose are fountains were actually
troughs for horses. While they will be restored in appearance, DWSD
will not be running water to them. There are also some large
lantern-like structures that will not be replaced due to their
prohibitive expense. The gate will, however, be illuminated at night.
The project, which got underway in January, will be complete by the end
of September and the total cost is estimated at between $600,000 and
$800,000. Chauncey Hurlbut, who served on the Detroit Board of Water
Commissioners in the late Nineteenth Century, willed his entire estate
to the construction and upkeep of Water Works Park. Thus, a portion of
the project total will likely be underwritten by the Hurlbut Trust, a
fund that exists solely for that purpose.
Ellenwood clearly sees the Hurlbut Gate as significant. "This is
something meaningful on Jefferson that people, especially Detroiters,
can relate to." The department plans to incorporate the gate into tours
of the park and the treatment plant they give to schools and community
groups.
Source: George Ellenwood, DWSD
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
On July 25, Detroit City Council approved the list of 26 neighborhoods -- including Woodbridge, West Village, Midtown and New Center -- that Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick recommended to receive Neighborhood Enterprise Zone tax cuts for fifteen years starting in 2008. Last year, another 25 became eligible. Deputy press secretary James Canning explains that legally, up to 15% of the city can be designated NEZ and that only homestead homeowners are eligible. This is why the neighborhoods that were selected were those with the "densest homestead homeowner properties, where the most people have the potential to benefit."
As for revenue loss to the city, Canning says, "We don't see it as a loss, we see it as an investment. It will give more people the potential to buy a house." The city estimates it will lose $6-8 million a year and has factored that into the budget. However, they estimated the same amount of losses for this year, from the first 25 neighborhoods, and have only seen $2 million in losses because almost 80% of the 10,000 households eligible for the savings have not turned in an application.
[Editor's note: What?!? And yes, applications are still being accepted from last year's group.]Eligible residents will be mailed applications next week, which must be filled out and returned to the Assessor's Office. The application requires that the homeowner agrees to perform $500 worth of home improvements to the property within three years. If no proof is rendered within that time frame, NEZ status will be rescinded. Savings to the homeowner range from 18-35% of annual property taxes, as determined by the assessor. Any homestead homeowner that purchased their home since 1997 is eligible to apply.
Maps and a list of neighborhoods from both years are available
here. A third and final crop of neighborhoods will be recommended again next year.
Source: James Canning, City of Detroit
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
A new bed and breakfast, The White House Inn and Wellness Retreat, will open this fall on Parkview in the Berry Subdivision. Located in the historic home that once operated as a B&B called The Blanche House, the new B&B will include three guest suites and a spa room.
Owner Michelle Calpito originally intended to open a day spa in Detroit, having relocated from Grand Rapids to do so. However, upon purchasing The White House, her dream evolved. She felt that its location in a residential neighborhood as well as the layout of the house lent itself to remaining a B&B, although the spa element remains integral. She says, "It's been a dream of mine to run a place where people come and leave feeling changed and refreshed, with a new outlook on life."
The spa room, where wellness treatments will be performed, includes a sauna, steam room and whirlpool tub. Another whirlpool tub is located in the largest guest suite.
The décor of The White House will differ from most B&B's. As Calpito describes, "I hoped to bring a simplicity to it, as most bed and breakfasts are Victorian and museum-like, ours is comfortable and inviting – just like visiting your girlfriend's house."
While completing the interior renovations and installing spa equipment is ongoing, The White House is currently available for event rentals. From today through the 28th of July, Calpito will be holding an Open House. Hours are Tuesday through Friday 10 a.m. until 1 p.m.; Saturday from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m; and Wednesday evenings from 5 to 8 p.m. She says the two weeks will give people a chance to check out The White House's amenities in anticipation of holding an event.
The White House can be reached at 313-822-7864.
Source: Michelle Calpito, The White House
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
On July 2, John Schoeniger began work as Loan Fund Manager at ShoreBank Enterprise Detroit (SED), a nonprofit affiliate of
ShoreBank Corporation. Most recently, Schoeniger was Vice President of Residential Real Estate Lending for ShoreBank in Cleveland.
Schoeniger will work primarily with small- and mid-sized developers and minority- and female-owned small businesses. Money from the fund can be used for predevelopment and preconstruction financing as well as predevelopment work such as appraisals, environmental assessments and architecture and engineering. "We want to fill gaps if there are any," he says. "We are willing to be creative and flexible, up to and including equity or equity-like deals."
The new position became necessary when SED received nearly $12 million in investments and loans from the Ford and Knight foundations in January. The fund's goal is specific: build and renovate commercial and residential properties in Detroit, particularly in Next Detroit neighborhoods. Schoeniger's goal is to have $2 million "out the door" in the twelve months.
He points out that funds from SED can be used to leverage conventional financing and/or to fill in any gaps that remain in a development portfolio. A developer, he says, "might have some of the money, but not all. We will try to figure out what they need and how to get it to them."
Schoeniger came to banking from a background in construction and real estate which, he says, helps him "communicate to all kinds of small- to mid-sized contractors and developers." He sees "rust belt" parallels between his experiences in Cleveland and the initiative he has undertaken in Detroit.
Source: John Schoeniger, SED
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
If you've been on Belle Isle recently, you've probably noticed lots of changes afoot -- most prominently, the huge concrete lot in front of the Casino: the new paddock for the Grand Prix.
Detroit Recreation Department director Loren Jackson acknowledges that it is a "large sea of concrete," but she points out its usefulness as parking for special events like the fireworks and a site for three-on-three basketball tournaments.
There are multiple road-paving projects going on for the Grand Prix as well, but Jackson says that there's more to it. "They've been really great about helping us out with other areas," citing new benches, ornamental lighting, flower plantings and dead tree removal and replacement. The Casino has also received a facelift; it will be used as media headquarters for the Grand Prix but the improvements -- including painting, plastering, new lighting and flooring -- will "increase its value as a rental facility," she says.
Scott Fountain will be spruced up and the adjacent lagoon will be dredged prior to the Labor Day weekend race.
The Belle Isle Women's Committee has focused its efforts on Sunset Point, the island's westernmost tip. The area has a new comfort station, sidewalks and landscaping. Jackson says the area is "calm and serene, a place to sit and read, watch the ducks and look out across the water."
A new water department facility was constructed near the foot of the
MacArthur Bridge and more improvements in that
area are to be expected.
Near Flynn Pavilion, the swan boats (pictured) have arrived, and Jackson says to be on the look-out for the dragon boats that will soon join them. (Now, let's see a creative use of the Eero Saarinen-designed pavilion itself...)
There is also shoreline work on-going along the eastern side of the island that Jackson expects to be complete this month.
Jackson wants Detroiters to know that non-Grand Prix visitors are welcome Labor Day weekend. "We will still have picnic shelters with family reunions, walkers. It's not taking over the entire island."
Source: Loren Jackson, DRD
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Detroit's Local Initiative Support Organization unveiled plans totaling $100 million for seven targeted areas. The plans were developed over the last two years by community groups and residents, says Deborah Younger, Detroit LISC program director. "No one knows best what a community needs than the folks that live there,"Younger says.
The seven areas fall under one of two targets: Strategic Investment Area or Regional Investment Initiative. The former groups community development corporations with service providers, residents, businesses, government agencies and other stakeholders to craft plans for their areas. The latter pairs CDCs from Detroit with partners from inner ring suburbs to attempt to bridge a gap between the cities and to address shared needs.
SIA areas include Southwest Detroit which will attempt to build on its cultural and historic heritage and increase market rate housing; Far East/Lower East Side which will develop mixed income housing and increase retail services; Northwest Detroit which will focus on infill housing and a strengthened commercial corridor; and Central Woodward which will focus on workforce training, mixed-income housing and retail.
RII teams paired up the Jefferson East area with Grosse Pointe; the South Fort/Visger Corridor with Ecorse, Lincoln Park, and River Rouge; and Van Dyke - 8 Mile with Center Line and Warren. RII was supported primarily by the Ford Foundation with the objective that similar efforts can be replicated across the country.
Now that general plans have been crafted for each of the areas, LISC will target fundraising efforts towards foundations and others that support each particular initiative a community has identified. Already $38 million has been secured; an estimated $100 million is needed to complete the initiatives. LISC will also continue to play a public policy role as well as connecting neighborhood groups with larger economic development initiatives.
Source: Deborah Younger, Detroit LISC
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Jefferson East Business Association will showcase its cinematic side with outdoor movie screenings throughout June. On June 9, the group will show
Goonies and on June 16,
Dreamgirls -- both of which feature scenes that were filmed in the district.
Films begin at 9 p.m. Concessions are available, but bring your own chair.
The movie screenings are intended to bring people down to the Jefferson East business district prior to the 2007
Jazzin' on Jefferson, which is set for June 22-23.
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Sales are cruising at the
Jefferson Village development with 99 of the development’s 185 planned homes sold.
Jefferson Village features single-family homes on Detroit’s east side, off Jefferson Avenue. The development is a five-minute drive Grosse Pointe and Belle Isle.
There are five models of homes to choose from that range in size from 1,500 to 3,300 square feet. They include a two-car attached garage, stainless steel appliances and insulated walls. Home prices start just over $200,000.
"It’s the only true-single-family community in Detroit," said Jim Agemy, director of sales for Crosswinds Communities. "It’s very well done."
Source: Jim Agemy, Crosswinds Communities
Writer: Jon Zemke
Woodward Place at Brush Park has sold more than half of the brownstone-style condos in its initial plan.
Crosswinds Communities, the developer, has finished building 180 of the condos. Of those units, 20 are still for sale. About 300 of the townhouses are expected to be built in the Brush Park neighborhood just north of I-75 and downtown. The development is roughly bordered by Woodward Avenue, Alfred Street, Brush Street and the I-75 Service Drive.
There are three models to choose from, ranging in size from 1,300 to 2,000 square feet. Each unit comes with balconies and attached parking. They are all within easy walking distance of downtown theater and stadium districts. Prices for the units start at $230,000.
Woodward Place at Brush Park was one of the first downtown-area developments, starting construction in the late 1990s.
Source: Ben Galindo, community sales manager for Woodward Place
Writer: Jon Zemke
The
cities of Detroit, Hamtramck, Highland Park and Dearborn have retained
transit consultants to identify feasible rapid transit alternatives
within the four cities. The study's managing agency, the Detroit
Department of Transportation, is hosting four open houses in the
coming week to share ideas and solicit input on the project, called
Detroit Transit Options for Growth Study.
- Mar. 21, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Guardian Building
- Mar. 21, 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. at WSU McGregor Conference Center
- Mar. 22, 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. at U-M Dearborn, Fairlane Center
- Mar. 24, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the Samaritan Center on Conner
Two
presentations will be given at each event by DDOT staff and DTOGS
consultants, potential routes and modes will be on display and
questions and comments from the public will be heard.
The
study is the first step in the formal process established by the
Federal Transit Administration in securing federal funds for rapid
transit.
Please RSVP to
Tim Roseboom.
Source: DTOGS
Cityscape Detroit will host an event entitled "The Economic Benefits of Historic Preservation" on Mar. 20. The keynote speaker will be Kristine Kidorf, a
preservation consultant and board member of the
Michigan Historic Preservation Network.
Kidorf will discuss the recent MHPN "Report Card" study that analyzes the impact that historic preservation has on Michigan's economy; in 2002-05, the years the study was conducted, $1.93 billion was added.
Because of this enormous impact, the study recommends increasing the state tax credit for historic preservation to 25% which, when coupled with the federal 20% credit, adds up to a 45% credit for a rehab project. Kidorf points out that since the state of Missouri enacted such a credit, not one historic building in St. Louis has been demolished.
She says the study also demonstrates, "For every $1 in credit, there was $11 in economic impact added."
The study can be downloaded
here.
The Cityscape event begins at 6:30 p.m. and will be held at SmartDetroit on the Penobscot Building's 13th floor. It is free and open to the public. RSVPs are preferred; email
rsvp@cityscapedetroit.org.
Source, Kristine Kidorf, Kidorf Preservation Consulting and MHPN
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Detroit City Council’s Solid Waste Recycling/Environmental Waste Task Force has released a plan recommending termination of the use of the incinerator by 2009, at which time the city’s debt obligation to the Greater Detroit Recourse Recovery Authority will be fulfilled.
The task force presents several reasons for the city to stop utilizing the incinerator that include:
- Cost. Detroit is paying an average of $150/ton for its garbage to be incinerated while other cities are paying much less.
- Jobs. Recycling creates more local jobs than incineration or landfill. The task force estimates that more than 1,000 jobs can be created by implementing a recycling program with a 50% participation rate.
- Health. Toxic emissions from the incinerator can lead to an increased rates in asthma and cancer.
- Energy. Energy produced by the incinerator is not clean, renewable nor cost effective.
The plan ultimately recommends curbside recycling, encouragement of composting, an education campaign and incentives for waste reduction.
A copy of the plan can be downloaded from the
Ecology Center’s website.
Source: Solid Waste Recycling/Environmental Waste Task Force Future Solid Waste Plan
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
The Cultural Alliance of SE Michigan has received $400,000 in start-up funding from the Community Foundation of Southeastern Michigan along with the McGregor Fund and the Hudson-Webber Foundation. The Alliance will work to increase collaborations between and visibility of arts and cultural organizations in the seven-county SEMCOG region.
The Cultural Alliance will represent the arts and culture community in regional planning efforts and will market the programs and amenities of member organizations to a diverse group of audiences.
The chairman of the Cultural Alliance’s board will be Steven K. Hamp, former president of The Henry Ford and Chief of Staff of Ford Motor Co. “The Cultural Alliance represents a new era for the arts and culture in our region,” he said in a release. “It embraces all dimensions of the cultural community: performing arts, visual arts, history and historic preservation, community cultural activities, arts education, science and nature, libraries and literature. Our goal is to foster innovation and creativity and enable our many and diverse cultural resources to contribute more dynamically to the people and communities of southeastern Michigan.”
All participating parties stress the Alliance’s inclusiveness, as organizations both big and small, fledgling and established, will have access to the collective’s resources and expertise.
More than 60 organizations from across all seven counties participated in an 18-month planning process to develop the Cultural Alliance, and several hundred will be invited to participate.
Source: CFSEM
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
A storefront on East Jefferson at Marlborough has received a brand-new façade that includes brick tuckpointing and washing as well as new windows, kneewalls, security roll-down doors and customized awnings. The total cost of improvements was $32,000; Jefferson East Business Association (JEBA) contributed $15,000 of that through their façade improvement matching grant program.
Of JEBA, building owner Nick Boghossian says that the organization is “working really hard with us [property owners] to get things going.” He has owned the building since 1984, but has seen an increased interest in his property in the last several years. The improved storefront has recently attracted inquiries from an income tax service office and a clothing store.
The building, located at 14510-16 E. Jefferson, consists of two 1,000 square-foot commercial units and two second floor apartments. He has already worked on improving the interior of all four spaces and hopes to improve the second storefront and replace the roof in summer 2007.
Source: JEBA and Nick Boghossian, property owner
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Jefferson East Business Association celebrated the conclusion of a successful year — and it's 10th anniversary — with a dinner at the Roostertail on November 17. JEBA’s target area is the four square miles bounded by St. Jean, Alter, Charlevoix and the Detroit River, with Jefferson serving as the neighborhood’s Main Street.
JEBA works in four specific areas, each of which made noticeable strides in 2006:
• Business Development: 80 clients received 241 hours of counseling on business start-ups which resulting in the acquisition of over $300,000 in business loans; a partnership is being developed with the Detroit Entreprenuership Institute to connect its graduates with available storefronts in the JEBA business district.
• Clean & Safe: a vacant lot on Jefferson at Ashland was transformed into a community park that has already hosted events. Robin Duncan, JEBA’s business development coordinator, says the organization “hopes to make it a gathering place for the community.”
• Planning & Development: completed 6 storefront façade improvement projects with 4 under construction; designed a Streetscape and Parking Plan for the commercial corridor.
• Promotion: hosted Jazzin’ on Jefferson which, over 2 days, brought 18,000 people into the district. Duncan says, “This is something that has been really well-received. It celebrates some of the history of this area, [and we’re] trying to bring attention to this neighborhood, the available storefronts, the housing options.”
Approximately 300 people attended the dinner. Duncan describes it as a “dynamic evening. Everyone had a had a great time.”
Source: Robin Duncan, JEBA
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
The leaders of six regional organizations have announced a new collaboration, called One D, that aims to address pressing issues in Southeast Michigan.
The heads of
United Way for Southeastern Michigan, the
Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau, Cultural Alliance of Southeastern Michigan, the
Detroit Regional Chamber,
New Detroit and
Detroit Renaissance said Tuesday morning that they will work together to focus on:
• Economic prosperity;
• Educational preparedness;
• Regional transit;
• Race relations;
• Regional cooperation;
• And quality of life.
No government agency specifically was represented among the six leaders of the alliance, but Michael Brennan, CEO of the regional United Way, said the group's make-up is significant because private sector leadership plays an important role in growing and uniting the region. "There is no mayor of Southeast Michigan, no county executive of Southeast Michigan," he said. On the other hand, the groups say their boards represent more than 250 local businesses, as well as countless nonprofits, community agencies and cultural groups.
One D member Shirely Stancato, CEO and president of New Detroit, said the group would present a specific agenda that includes a report card for the region at the chamber's Mackinac Conference in late May next year.
Brennan said that it's imperative to work together and show a united front for working regionally. During interviews for a recent United Way survey, respondents were asked to name a regional organization affecting change. "More often than ot we got a long pause," he said. The One D coalition hopes to fill that void, he said.
Residents can learn more about the One D project during a special 30-minute broadcast on local PBS station WTVS (Channel 56) at 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 20.
Writer: Clare Pfeiffer Ramsey
Source: One D
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
The Michigan Economic Development Council will award $277,000 in tax credits to remodel the Savarine Hotel on East Jefferson into apartments.
The former hotel, 13115 E. Jefferson Avenue, will be redeveloped into 118 apartments called the Winston Place Apartments.
The Hotel Savarine was built in 1926 and most recently served as low-income housing.
For more on the project,
click here to see what Model D reported in May.
Writer: Jon Zemke
Source: Mike Shore, Chief Communications Officer for Michigan Economic Development Council
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
The Greater Detroit Historic Preservation Coalition ratified a "Vision for Detroit" document on October 17. The GDHPC is comprised of more than twenty organizations that believe that preserving Detroit's built environment is integral to its overall redevelopment. Member organizations include Preservation Wayne, Cityscape Detroit, Detroit Synergy and Riverfront East Alliance.
Francis Grunow, Preservation Wayne's executive director, credits the National Trust for Historic Preservation for bringing the organizations together in the wake of the demolition of the Madison and Lenox buildings. He says, "This coalition-building process with the National Trust over the last year has the been the catalyst for bringing the Detroit preservation community together."
The Vision document states the coalition's commitment to preservation and explains it reasons for this commitment, which include: job creation, tourism, return on investment, the city's identity and social justice.
For more information, contact
Preservation Wayne.
Source: Francis Grunow, Preservation Wayne
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Residential Detroit LLC is developing 131 units of market rate housing in Islandview Village, a neighborhood located just blocks west of West Village. Developer Vic Semelsberger describes the neighborhood as “truly a mixed income neighborhood;” Messiah Housing is building low-moderate income housing in the same area. Islandview is just blocks from Gabriel Richard Park, the terminus of the under-construction Riverwalk and the gateway to Belle Isle.
Residential Detroit has two distinct projects in the pipeline. The first, English Village Brownstones, is a 105-unit townhouse development that consists of 25 multi-unit buildings. 42 of the units have been completed, of which 35 have sold. An additional three units that have not yet been constructed have also been sold. The units range from $230-280,000 and come in 2, 3 and 4 bedroom models. Semelsberger anticipates the entire project to be completed in 3-4 years.
The second project, English Village Lofts, is the conversion of the former St. Charles School into 26 loft condos ranging in price from $150-290,000 and in size from 685-1,665 square feet. Construction will begin in the fourth quarter of this year and be completed by the end of 2008.
Semelsberger estimates his company’s total investment in the neighborhood at $25 million. Site plans and renderings are available at englishvillagedetroit.com.
Source: Vic Semelsberger, Residential Detroit LLC
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Granite
Building Company is working to build up to 69 new single family homes
in the area bounded by Kercheval, Charlevoix, Chalmers and Phillips.
The project, called Kercheval Estates, also includes rehabilitating
existing homes in the area in partnership with the non-profit Detroit
Housing Group; nine have been completed.
Gwen Lewis, the owner of Granite Construction, explains that the
homes are built after they are purchased. Each house can be customized
to the purchaser’s needs; the homes start at $175,000 and 1,300 square
feet.
Lewis notes Kercheval Estate’s proximity to Grosse Pointe, Mack-Alter Square, the revitalization of East Jefferson and other residential development like Marlborough Estates as some of the area’s amenities. She plans for 53 additional homes to be built for phase 2.
There are three models onsite that are open weekdays from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and on Saturdays from 2-6 p.m.
Source: Gwen Lewis, Granite Building Co.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Wayne County's Nuisance Abatement Program, which can be utilized as a tool for community groups and individuals to deal with vacant and dangerous structures in their neighborhoods, will be explained at the "RAP with NAP" seminar and reception at 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21.
"A lot of community groups call our office because they have problems with abandoned properties in their neighborhoods. Sometime we can do a wonderful job, sometimes we can't because [the property is] beyond our scope," says Wayne County's Mike Russell. "We will explain what the NAP program can do, what we cannot, and then give alternative resources to address the issue."
If a property is ultimately deemed a nuisance by the county, the first priority is to work with the owner to rehab the property or sell it to someone that can. "The court awards title to the county as a last resort," Russell notes. At that time, NAP places the property on its Web site in hopes of finding a new owner.
Russell hopes to see "developers, community activist groups and financers together in a nice atmosphere." The seminar will be at the Wayne County Building, 600 Randolph, in the Atrium.
For more information contact Mike Russell at 313.967.2203 or
mrussell@co.wayne.mi.us.
Source: Mike Russell, Wayne County
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Crain’s Detroit Business is hosting the Ultimate House Party at 40 private homes across the city to showcase the diverse range of housing options available in the city. The Sept. 28 invite-only event will start off with cocktails at each guest’s designated home. All guests will then converge for food, drinks and jazz at a downtown afterglow.
Crain’s publisher, Mary Kramer, says the goal of the House Party is to “introduce suburban professionals to a neighborhood experience.” Attendees will be directed to a particular house, which may be a historic home such as the former home of Henry Ford in Boston Edison, or a newer development like
Shorepointe Village in Grayhaven on the riverfront.
The invitation-only event was nearly sold-out as of Monday, with at least 700 people expected to attend.
Kramer, who is a Detroit resident, says, “Many people come down to Detroit for entertainment, but far fewer get off the highway and experience a neighborhood.”
She hopes to grow the event into a weekend-long open house of properties for sale citywide.
Source: Mary Kramer, Crain’s Detroit Business
Looking or a copy of Crain's Detroit Business' special
Living and Investing in the D section but missed last week issue? The issue featured business opportunities and places to live in the city.
You can still purchase a copy from Crain's for a dollar each. Contact Crain's at
(888) 909-9111.
You can also view all the content online and download a PDF version at
crainsdetroit.com.
The Detroit Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau has created a summer city promotion offering a $50 gas card when two or more adults stay in select Detroit metro area hotels for two nights.
Carolyn Artman, media relations manager for the bureau, says it’s one of the largest city gas promotions in the country. To take advantage of the promotion, travelers to Detroit must register on the Visit Detroit website at http://www.visitdetroit.com/ and click on the free $50 gas card package.
Participants can choose from 13 select area hotels taking part in the promotion, and can customize and reserve their stay online at the Visit Detroit Web site.
“We want people to come see what Detroit has to offer,” says Artman.
Source: Carolyn Artman, Detroit Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau
Get
yourself out and enjoy Detroit. From the Riverfront to New Center, this
is prime time to get out in the city, and there's no shortage of big
events, outdoor music, festivals, picnic spots, etc.
A few ideas:
• Catch the
International Freedom Festival fireworks
Wednesday, June 28. Pick your favorite viewing spot (Eastern Market,
Belle Isle, Hart Plaza, wherever) and pull up a lawn chair for the
biggest, the best big boomers in Southeast Michigan.
• The
Comerica Tastefest
in New Center runs June 30-July 4. There's no better place to eat,
drink, be merry, then eat some more. Plus there's a killer music
lineup, too.
• Is anybody else unable to stop humming the circa 1984 "Bless You Boys" anthem? The
Tigers are out of town, but catch the game in the shadow of the old stadium at
Nemo's in Corktown, or in the shadow of the new one at the
Hockeytown Cafe or
Cheli's Chili.• Get out to Belle Isle. Bike, swim, run, picnic, let the rugrats go on the Playscape. And there's a new
Nature Zoo for the kiddies, too.
• By land or sea, listen to music on the Riverfront.
Chene Park has national acts like Teena Marie and Brian McKnight. Plus
GM's added a concert series in front of the Renaissance Center.
Show some pride and Euro flair in the 'D' and display one of the new "DET" decals.
The
white oval with black lettering is modeled after the stickers used in
Europe to identify what country cars are from. In this country,
Americans put replicas of the European stickers on their cars to
identify their own European roots.
The Metro Detroit Convention
and Visitors Bureau has printed up 10,000 of the Detroit version, and
they gave out thousands of the free stickers to kick off their Doors
Open Detroit event in Campus Martius last Friday. While they last, you
can request one by e-mailing DETpride@visitdetroit.com or calling
1-800-DETROIT.
"We want to blanket the community with them to show our civic pride," says Renee Monforton of the bureau.
Source: Renee Monforton, Metro Detroit Convention and Visitors Bureau
Preservation Wayne is marking its 30th anniversary this week.
The nonprofit is dedicated to “promoting and protecting Detroit’s historic built environment.”
The group’s efforts aim to preserve as well as revitalize Detroit’s historic areas, promoting awareness through events, lectures and media, as well as advocating for policies and preservation-friendly development.
“We're looking to further the preservation ethic in Detroit and set the stage for efforts in Detroit for the next 30 years ... and we're looking to the community for help and input,” says Douglas McIntosh, Preservation Wayne's president.
The group offers popular walking tours of the city. The tours help introduce people to the city’s architecture, history and landmarks. For more information on Preservation Wayne, go to
http://www.preservationwayne.org.
Source: Preservation Wayne
The first Chicken Shack franchise in the city of Detroit is the latest tenant at Mack-Alter Square on the East Side, and a Cottage Inn pizza restaurant is planned to open up within a few months.
In just the few months it’s been open, the shopping center is 90 percent occupied, says Michael Curis, who co-developed the shopping center with Mark Thomas. “It typically takes from one to three years for full lease up, and we’re talking to tenants for the rest of the space, so we’re really happy,” Curis says.
The
Chicken Shack opened May 23, and has an outdoor, landscaped patio dining area. Curis says the shopping center is also home to the only President Tuxedo in the city, and the second Aldi grocery store in the city.
“We’re just really proud of it,” Curis says of Mack-Alter.
Source: Michael Curis, developer
The historic Savarine Hotel located on East Jefferson one block east of Dickerson is being developed into more than 110 market-rate apartments and 6,000 square feet of ground-floor commercial space by the Urban Innovation Group. The two- and three-bedroom apartments will rent for $500 to $800 and will range in size from 450 to 1,100 square feet.
The four commercial spaces average 1,500 square feet. UIG is "in discussions with a sit-down restaurant," says Jason Jones of UIG. Other potential tenants include a Laundromat and a boutique clothier.
UIG also owns the Island View Apartments on Field Street just off East Jefferson.
"The East Jefferson corridor is the best development corridor in the city," Jones says. "I think it's got the highest potential value for your efforts. As an investor, it's an extraordinary place to develop assets—it's not as expensive [to acquire property] as Midtown, but you can reach close to Midtown prices."
UIG plans to be able to accept residents in September and for construction to be complete by later that fall.
Source: Jason Jones, Urban Innovation Group
The Tourism and Economic Development Council will offer tours each
Saturday, May through September, due to heightened interest generated
by the Super Bowl. Designed to augment
Preservation Wayne’s tour schedule,
the tours will begin at Campus Martius at 10:00 a.m. and will include
several distinct options ranging from walking to bus to People Mover
tours.
The new types of tours will be:
• People Mover Tours, which will take participants around the People
Mover as well as into new loft developments and the Renaissance Center.
• City Living Tours are each a unique bus tour that will focus on
living options in different areas of Detroit including the Riverfront,
Lafayette Park, Downtown, University Commons-Palmer Park, Rosedale
Park, North and South Midtown, the eastside, and New Center.
• “What’s New in the D” Tours will provide an insider’s view of recent
developments downtown—including shopping, restaurants and bars, living
options, and parks.
Tours range in price from free to $10. A complete schedule is available at
http://www.theworldiscoming.com/tours.html.
Source: TEDC
Ever wonder why there isn’t a Linens ‘N Things in your neighborhood?
Cityscape Detroit is holding a forum to help Detroiters understand what
national retailers look for in deciding where to open their stores —
and hopefully, “learn what Detroit can do to get more national
retailers,” says Andrew Koper, senior officer of the organization.
The forum will take place Monday, May 8 at 6 p.m. Patty Formosa of
MapInfo — a corporation that utilizes Geographic Information Systems
(GIS), databases, and demographics to advise retailers and restaurants
where to locate — will make a presentation tailored to the Detroit
market followed by questions and answers and discussion.
The event will be held in the Bernath Auditorium of the WSU’s Adamany
Library, located at 5155 Gullen Mall. Non-members are requested to make
a $7.50 donation.
Through this and other events, Cityscape aims “to support the community
of people in Detroit who are interested in urban planning,
architecture, preservation and ‘the built environment,’ and to attract
people outside the city who are interested in urbanism…into [the]
city,” according to Koper. For more information, visit
www.cityscapedetroit.org.
Source: Andrew Koper, senior officer, Cityscape Detroit
The City of Detroit is hosting a second Environmental Forum to identify
actions that can be taken to address issues raised at the first forum
held in March. The forum will be held on from 5-8 p.m., Wednesday,
April 19, at the Northwest Activity Center at 18100 Meyers Road.
Air quality and illegal dumping ranked as priority issues based on
analysis of the first forum. Other issues raised include recycling,
water quality, abandoned buildings and lots, and green roofing.
Source: Lareina Reid, City of Detroit Department of Environmental Affairs
• Greening and Cleaning:
Greening of Detroit’s spring planting season starts Saturday, April 8,
at 9 a.m., volunteers will gather at the North Rosedale Park Community
House, located at 18445 Scarsdale.
Fifty trees will be planted on Bretton and Lancashire Streets to
replace trees lost to the emerald ash borer. “The neighborhood rallied
to raise funds to cut the trees down; we’re continuing our re-planting
efforts that we began last fall,” says Joe Sulak, Greening of Detroit’s
urban forester.
Detroit Synergy’s Project Clean
is starting off its spring season by committing volunteers to lend a
hand at the North Rosedale planting. You can sign up to volunteer for
this planting by contacting Detroit Synergy at
clean@detroitsynergy.org or by calling the Greening of Detroit at 313-237-8733.
Plantings take place every Saturday through June 10.
Click here for a full planting schedule that even includes weekday opportunities.
•
Biking: Also on Saturday,
Detroit Synergy’s Detroit Bikes! Group is hosting its first city ride
of the year. Cyclists will gather at the Millennium Bell in Grand
Circus Park at 1:30 p.m. for a 8 to 9 mile ride around downtown, along
the riverfront, to Belle Isle and back to Eastern Market for lunch
and/or shopping. The ride is at an easy pace of 8 to 12 mph.
Click here for more info. Please note that riders are required to wear helmets.
Sources: Joe Sulak, Greening of Detroit and Alexander Froelich, Detroit Bikes!
The
Greening of Detroit,
along with the city's Planning Commission and Planning and Development
Department, is holding a series of events to coordinate greenways
planning throughout the city.
The Community Foundation for Southeastern Michigan’s Greenways
Initiative has sparked "an explosion of excitement and enthusiasm for
greenspaces,” says Greening of Detroit’s Ashley Atkinson. "Now a plan
must be created to identify a unified vision and plan for linking
greenways citywide.”
The Greening of Detroit is hosting an open house from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Tuesday, March 14 at their office at 1418 Michigan Avenue. Any
organization is invited to stop by to ensure that a copy of their
greenway plan is included in the overall city inventory.
This inventory, combined with City of Detroit data, will be presented
at two workshops at the Belle Isle Casino. The first, from 5:30 p.m. to
8:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 28, will present a preliminary greenways map.
At this time, the public will be invited to identify missing projects
and share ideas for future greenways.
The second workshop from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 29, is
intended to allow city officials and other key stakeholders an
opportunity to review and discuss the preliminary map.
Greenways currently being planned or under development in Detroit
include the Corktown-Mexicantown Greenlink, Southwest Detroit-East
Dearborn Greenway, Midtown Loop, Dequindre Cut, Hamtramck Trail, the
Lyndon Greenway Project in Northwest Detroit, Conner Creek Greenway,
and the Electric Avenue Greenway in Southwest Detroit.
Source: Ashley Atkinson, Greening of Detroit
Developer
Dwight Belyue was selected to develop two parcels — Atwater North and South — in the East
Riverfront District. The parcels will be built into 480 condo units and 43,000 square feet of
commercial space.
Peter Zeiler of the Detroit Economic
Growth Corp. says Belyue’s development plan for the
9.3-acre site, to be called @water Lofts, will include building "along Atwater Street on
both sides. There will be four, five, and six stories of verticality,
creating a street-wall effect. The materials are mostly stone and
brick, which will fit in well with the character of what’s behind it on
Franklin Street.”
Belyue’s development team
includes architects Rosetti and Associates and he expects condo prices
to range in the upper $300,000s. “This is such an exciting place to be," he says, "and I’m happy to be a
part of it. The site is tied into Tricentennial Park and the RiverWalk,
which will be great amenities for our residents. Atwater will be active
and alive with retail.”
The two parcels are the third and fourth of seven parcels in the district for which
DEGC sought developers. The other two projects for
which developers have been selected are Chene West—to be developed by
former Piston Dave Bing—and Chene East—to be developed by Charles
Betters of Pittsburgh and football star Jerome Bettis, a Detroit
native. Zeiler expects the first shovel in the ground as soon as
development agreements are worked out between DEGC and the developers.
“What’s most gratifying about these three teams is that they
all want to be first in the ground. There’s some friendly competition
between the three,” he says.
For his part, Belyue sees a
picture that is bigger than just @water Lofts. “This project
will be a catalyst for development not just along the river but all
over Detroit. In lots of major cities around the country, once the
riverfront took off, the whole city took off.”
Source: Peter Zeiler, Detroit Economic Growth Corp. and Dwight Belyue, Belmar Development Group
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
A project that combines performance, mapping, walks and
international exchange is winding down in Detroit with walks and a
performance.
Walk & Squawk explores how people make their own paths; how and
why people's paths cross; and how changing patterns of movement alter
perceptions, attitudes and lives.
The project has been developed with American and South Africa-based
artists during four residencies in Detroit and KwaZulu-Natal since 2003.
Walk & Squawk is hosting "Walks Around The Block," a series of
walks that ask participants to observe, photograph, draw, write,
videotape, share stories and create personal maps of different
neighborhoods. The first walk was in Woodbridge on Feb. 18. There will
be three more: Rivertown on Feb. 25 (meet at Atwater Brewery); Cass
Corridor, March 4 (meet at the Detroit Center, 3663 Woodward); and
Heidelberg, March 11 (meet at Franklin Wright Settlements, 3360
Charlevoix). The events start at 1:30 p.m. and registration is
required. It is free, but a donation to the project is recommended.
The project comes to its conclusion with the premiere of a new
theatre piece, March 29-April 9. This will be the first theatrical
performance at the new Boll Family YMCA Downtown.
For more information go to www.walksquawk.org.
Source: Melissa Bunker, Walk & Squawk spokesperson
Tuesday, December 13, 2005
The Detroit Economic Growth Corp. (DEGC) received proposals from seven local and national development teams for the redevelopment of seven sites east of downtown, including the LaFarge, Holnam and Cemex cement silos.
Plans also were submitted for a three-block area bordered by Woodbridge, Orleans, Atwater, and Riopelle.
The DEGC plans to award projects to multiple developers rather than awarding all seven areas to a single master developer, so as to encourage diversity of design throughout the area.
The city is seeking mid-rise, mixed-use developments maxing out around 55 feet, with emphasis on creating an active street frontage set in a dense urban neighborhood. It is also intended that the new developments will link to Eastern Market via the Dequindre Cut, a planned pedestrian throughway.
The DEGC plans to award the projects in January. Construction would start this summer.
Source: Detroit Economic Growth Corp. project management staff
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
The Jefferson Avenue Housing Development Corp. is providing infill housing on the East Side, with 67 homes planned next year for the area of Jefferson to Kercheval and Fisher to Crain.
The homes will have a variety of traditional styles that are compatible with existing homes.
The homes are part of the East Village Development Plan, created in 1995, which sets out to revitalize the East Village neighborhood, located immediately east of Indian Village. The plan, covering Jefferson to Kercheval and Fischer to Cadillac, calls to add infill housing and green space while creating a safe walkable area with a strong sense of community. A total of 365 homes are planned over the next several years throughout the entire area.
The homes are designed with similar architectural styles as the original housing that once made up the neighborhood. They sit on small lots with traditional urban footprints and garages in the back.
“We want to revitalize the neighborhood, not replace it,” says Bill Swanson, executive director of the Jefferson Avenue Housing Development Corp., in regards to the style of infill housing offered in East Village.
Homes range from 1,300 to 2,200 square feet and cost from $150,000 to $250,000, with Neighborhood Enterprise Zone status. So far, three homes have been built and another two are being rehabbed. JAHDC anticipates breaking ground this fall on additional homes.
For more information visit: http://eastvillagehomesdetroit.com/
Source: Bill Swanson, executive director of the Jefferson Avenue Housing Development Corp.
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
Volunteers planted 1,000 tree seedlings on Belle Isle earlier this month to help fight pollution.
The Greening of Detroit, Detroit Recreation Department, DTE Energy and U.S. Forest Service participated in the project, part of the Super Bowl XL Carbon Neutral Initiative.
The program was designed by the NFL to help combat increased levels of carbon monoxide created during the Super Bowl festivities. The same program was initiated for last year’s game in Jacksonville, Fla.
The number of trees needed is determined by estimating the number of people that will be present at all the events and how much carbon monoxide will be generated. In addition to the 1,000 seedlings planted on Belle Isle, another 1,500 will be planted around the metro area.
“This is a step in the right direction for the NFL to be environmentally sensitive to the community,” says Ashley Atkinson, project manager of The Greening of Detroit. “They are leading by example.”
Source: Ashley Atkinson, project manager of The Greening of Detroit
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
Crosswinds Communities is currently developing a 50-acre site – located between St. Clair and St. Jean, and Jefferson and Freud – that will add 326 homes to the area.
The project began in the early 1990s with the Detroit Economic Growth Corp.’s acquisition of the land and major infrastructure reconstruction. Two years back, Crosswinds Communities starting building their first homes on the site, and in Jan. of 2005 the first buyers moved in.
“We don’t start constructing it until someone buys,” says Ehrlich Crain, vice president of business and development at Crosswinds Communities. Buyers have the opportunity to choose from 6 different floor plans and styles, ranging from a 1,400-square-foot ranch to a 3,200-square-foot colonial. Additionally, buyers have the ability to choose where their houses will be located in the development. So far, 80 homes have been sold, with 40 occupied.
“There is significant demand for single-family housing in Detroit, especially with density like this,” says Crain. “This is the largest single-family development in the city.” Crain adds that the development has an urban feel with predominately brick homes and a traditional urban street grid that fits into the fabric of the surrounding community.
The project does have Neighborhood Enterprise Zone status, resulting in twelve year tax abatements of 60 percent.
For more information visit www.crosswindsus.com/michigan/ detroit_jefferson_village/
Source: Ehrlich Crain, vice president of business and development at Crosswinds Communities.
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
Elegant Ladies Spa & Boutique is set to host their grand opening event Nov. 7 at 14423 E. Jefferson.
Lajean Adams, owner of Elegant Ladies, has lived in the area for over 30 years and says there is a demand for services such as facials and nail care, plus the clothing and accessories she will sell. She hopes to encourage others in the neighborhood to start their own businesses, too. “If I can do it, you can do it,” she says.
Elegant Ladies also will help women get on their feet. Adams is trying to get clothing vouchers so women who are seeking jobs can have the proper attire for an interview and work. She also plans to host seminars to help women feel good about themselves and find employment.
“If you look good and feel good, nine times out of 10 you will go do something positive,” Adams says.
Source: Lajean Adams, owner of Elegant Ladies Spa & Boutique
Tuesday, October 04, 2005
The Hiller Building, built in 1927, is home to a new branch of Laurena and Marty Powell’s dental practice. After outgrowing their current office on Van Dyke, the couple has expanded to the building on the corner of Jefferson and Chalmers in Jefferson East.
The Powells chose this two story mixed-use building because of the potential and opportunity they saw in the area. This area is home to several beautiful historic buildings, but lacks dental and medical practices, says Laurena Moore Powell.
The building needed renovating, but the couple has the “determination to turn it into a jewel,” Laurena Powell says. They had to fully gut the interior and undergo a major overhaul in order to refurbish the building. “It took a lot of sweat equity,” she says.
In addition to the Powells’ dental office, two other businesses are located on the first floor, with lofts under construction on the second floor. The couple says they want to maintain the historical beauty of the upstairs lofts by keeping much of the original brick exposed and preserve the urban character of the neighborhood while restoring the historical building.
Source: Laurena Moore Powell, building owner
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Ford’s building that originally was used to showcase his cars is being put to good use after being vacant for years. Josephine Marino, a local artist, recently purchased the historic building to provide a larger studio to work in. She plans on converting the first floor of the three-story, 30,000-sqare-foot building into a showcase for art and artists. Meanwhile, the top two floors will be reverted to their original purpose by serving as storage space for cars and boats.
Understanding that artists need a lot of space to work in, Marino is renting out the bottom floor to artists who also are seeking a larger workspace. Marino works with clay, metal and oil and is seeking to attract artists who will add other creative media to the list, such as glass-blowing. Studio space can be rented out for any period of time, from hourly to yearly.
The additional top two floors are used as storage space for cars, boats, bikes, etc. The original steel elevator was designed to transport cars to the top two levels. Storage units are available for immediate use, while artist space will be ready soon.
The building is located at 14801 E. Jefferson Ave.
Source: Josehpine Marino
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
Joey's Deli, opening this fall on 14447 E. Jefferson Ave., will serve soups, salads and sandwiches – all made fresh, daily. “Nothing will come out of a can or a bag,” says Joey Perkovic. “We’ll make everything from scratch and use only the freshest of ingredients. It will be quality foods and great service at affordable prices.”
An artist himself, Perkovic is currently renovating the interior as well as the exterior. The interior is being thoroughly redesigned with granite countertops and artistically painted walls, and the exterior “will be redone completely as well and will include all new bricks,” Perkovic said. The exterior will also be raised another 9 feet, to keep with the height of the surrounding buildings, an expensive undertaking.
When asked how he plans to recover the high renovation cost he has incurred, Perkovic said, “I see a real market here or I wouldn’t be putting this much money into it. I firmly believe in this location, as this side of town is going through something very special and is making real comeback.” Without a shadow of doubt, Perkovic said, “I know I will recover my investment here and be very successful.”
The deli will be open 24 hours.
— Source: Joey Perkovic, owner, Joey’s Deli, and Chris Garland, Jefferson East Business Association.
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
Trekcomputers, a computer repair, technical support and software training store, will open its doors on Sept. 9 at 14708 E. Jefferson Ave. Previously, the same store was on 14410 E. Jefferson Ave. “We were growing so rapidly that we needed a larger store,” said owner Donnie Hall.
The store is unique in that it not only repairs computers, but also assists customers with technical questions and helps train them in most software products. Within the store is also a computer lab where one can use the computers for any desired length of time. “All saved files can be burned on a CD or left on the password-protected server to be accessed anytime in the future,” Hall said. Trekcomputers also lets customers borrow a computer, whether it is for a few days or extended periods of time. “A customized annual membership based on one’s individual needs could be purchased, or an hourly fee-based option is also available for specific projects,” Hall said.
This is a store for both the technologically savvy with specialized needs, as well as for those just getting started on the basics, said Hall. “I come across a lot of people who are still afraid of using computers. But, our store, with its large windows, gets their curiosities up, that they are not intimidated to come in and ask questions.”
The façade of the store is striking because of its large glass windows and doors. When asked about safety, Hall said, “I feel totally safe here. If I didn’t feel safe, I wouldn’t keep all these expensive computers and gadgets out in the open. When you create an environment like this that looks inviting and open, people respect that and treat it with respect too.”
Donnie Hall is not alone in his thinking. There are three other retails units on the same strip as Trekcomputers. Each one of them also flaunts large glass windows and doors — making a statement that the Jefferson East neighborhood is a safe place to do business.
- Source: Donnie Hall, owner, Trekcomputers, and Chris Garland, Jefferson East Business Association.
Fit to Perfection, a specialty store for women’s custom fit undergarments, will be open later this fall.
The store will feature women’s support wear, shape-wear, hosiery, as well as conversion bras for breast cancer survivors. While there will be plenty of readymade brand-name labels to choose from, alterations and made-to-measure undergarments will also be available with the help of a seamstress.
Located on the corner of E. Jefferson and Chalmers, the store is owned by long-time Detroit resident Billie Graves, who says that when she had decided to open Fit-to-Perfection, she had to look no further than Detroit for a location. “I believe in Detroit and have seen all the ups and the downs, but I believe that Detroit is finally bouncing back,” she says.
- Source: Billie Graves, owner, Fit-to-Perfection
Environmental Protection Agency approved a grant for the cleaning and greening of Detroit. Community groups, along with the Greening of Detroit, will create maps of areas in their neighborhoods that need to be cleaned up and planted with vegetation.
- Source - Detroit Free Press
Thursday, August 11, 2005
A $100 million federal allocation will enable design and plans for a mass transit system to connect Michigan’s two premier cities: Detroit and Ann Arbor.
Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG) officials this fall "will present options for light rail, rapid bus and commuter rail lines to local leaders in the Ann Arbor-Detroit corridor. Local support is critical because the federal grant requires a local match of at least $20 million," says The Detroit News.
- Source: Read the entire article at The Detroit News
The University of Michigan this year will offer a new certificate program in real estate development that focuses on building well-designed, livable and sustainable communities with a high quality of life.
The program will enroll graduate students in a curriculum that focuses on development and redevelopment of economically, environmentally and socially sustainable places. The certificate program gives graduate students in professional programs, such as urban planning, business, architecture and law, the opportunity to take a range of courses that deepen their skills and qualifications in real estate development and related fields.
With a national advisory board of industry leaders, it aims to strengthen the curriculum in real estate development and ultimately enhance the knowledge base underlying this interdisciplinary field.
- Source: University of Michigan's Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning website
The Greater Detroit Agency, a nonprofit organization, recently received a grant for facade improvements to help clean up the business district in northwest Detroit. While sprucing up the office exterior, the Greater Detroit Agency and the Greening of Detroit decided to team up to lay the foundation of a new sensory garden.
By incorporating pussywillow and roses, the sensory garden will help the blind and visually impaired challenge their senses of touch and smell.
The garden is likely to be completed by next year.
- Source: The Detroit News
Hilton Head Properties Inc., a Houston-based real estate investment company, has bought more than 400 residential properties in Detroit from the Detroit Neighborhood Development Corp.
With most of the properties, scattered across the city, Hilton Head Properties Inc. plans to revitalize these homes and resell them.
- Source: San Antonio Business Journal
The Detroit Agriculture Network (DAN) is hosting the annual Garden Tour on August 10th, 2005. The guided bus tour is an opportunity to share gardens with neighbors from all around Metro Detroit. Visits are arranged to some old favorites as well as some new gardens. The hard work, creativity and dedication of Detroit gardeners will be at its best display during this tour.
"Over the last two years, The Detroit Agriculture Network, Greening of Detroit, Michigan State University Extension, and EarthWorks Garden at Capuchin Soup Kitchen have been working diligently to provide resources and education to Detroit's urban gardeners. The annual Detroit Agriculture Network Garden Tour is an opportunity to see all of our hard work pay off as well as to share it with the rest of the world" said Ashley Atkinson of The Greening of Detroit.
Community and backyard gardens play an important role in the City of Detroit. They provide thousands of pounds of nutritious produce for Detroit families and they improve communities by connecting neighbors, providing an alternative to vacant lots, reducing crime and improving property values.
The tour leaves from the 4H Community Center, 5710 McClellan at 5:30 on August 10th and will last approximately 2 hours. The tour will be followed by a community potluck at 4H.
- Source: Based on information provided by Ashley Atkinson, Project Manager, The Greening of Detroit
The World is Coming-Get in the Game, a public information campaign aimed at metro Detroiters, wants folks to experience the new Detroit and talk to visitors and friends in a new way. Planned Day Trips around “new developments, polished up Riverfront and renovated city landmarks and skyscrapers” give a sample of what the city and the suburbs now have to offer.
“Get Informed, Experience it, Get Involved, Spread the word and see the changes,” says the site because “we have the ability to change the conversation about Detroit, how we talk about ourselves and the pride we feel. It all begins with us. When you’re on a plane, at a restaurant, out with your friends -- spread the word about all the positive things that are happening in Detroit”.
Click here to get detailed tour information and other fun facts about the D
- Source: Information gathered from The World is Coming-Get in the Game site