When designer, Detroit booster and businessman Dominic Pangborn’s dream, the shops and restaurants of the Asian Village, is realized on the Detroit riverfront next year, it will be a chance to unite the region’s scattered Asian community and give Detroit some new cultural flavor.
Much of Corktown embodies the coolest of "cool cities" concepts, with new bars, restaurants, galleries and hangouts popping up and giving the community a strong vibe, but the northern pocket of the neighborhood hasn't always done as well. Community developers now hope a wave of new, affordable housing – built with a historic feel and decked out in a palette of strong, vibrant hues – will be the start of something bold.
Economic-development experts seem to agree: racial fighting blocks development. Diversity, on the other hand, can help spur it, says Keith Schneider, deputy director of the Michigan Land Use Institute.
Our Partners
Solutions journalism takes time, trust, and your support.
