Detroit citizens are presented with a unique chance to collaborate and negotiate community benefits in light of a $3 billion development near New Center. This collaboration between Henry Ford Health, Michigan State University, and the Detroit Pistons aims to expand hospital facilities, introduce a medical research center, and develop housing around the Lodge Freeway and West Grand Boulevard.
Given the scale of the investment and the likely pursuit of significant tax abatements, a city ordinance has necessitated developers’ engagement with residents over multiple weeks. This engagement aims to determine construction impact protections and finalize other community benefits.
For those desiring to represent their neighborhood, it’s imperative to be physically present at a community meeting slated for Oct. 10. The neighborhood advisory council, consisting of nine members, will represent adults residing within defined boundaries. Selection involves both community votes and nominations from city officials.
City Council President Mary Sheffield voiced the essence of community involvement to Bridge Detroit: “We can talk about what’s going on in Detroit, we can complain, or we can show up and be part of the solution,” and further added her gratitude, saying, “I’ve seen the long hours, the numerous documents that you all have to read and digest and so in advance, I say thank you to the residents who are going to step up and are willing to serve and represent their community.”
The first gathering, dictated by the community benefits ordinance, witnessed an impressive attendance of over 100 residents. Key concerns highlighted during this meeting revolved around potential disruptions due to prolonged construction, the pressing need for affordable housing, and queries about Henry Ford Health’s vacant buildings. This session primarily aimed to introduce attendees to the upcoming project’s process. Subsequent meetings are scheduled every Tuesday at 6 p.m. at University Prep High School, located at 610 Antoinette St.
Many attendees raised concerns, particularly about the prolonged construction’s implications, the pressing need for affordable housing tailored to low-income households, and the utilization of empty properties under Henry Ford Health’s ownership. The three collaborating organizations have distinct roles in the “Future of Health” project, cumulatively resulting in the $3 billion venture. The expected completion for these projects spans from 2027 to 2029.
Furthermore, of all the housing units, 20% (approximately 120 units) will be priced lower to accommodate those earning half of Southeast Michigan’s median income. This translates to rents of up to $828 for studio apartments, $888 for one-bedroom units, and $1,066 for two-bedroom residences.
Rich Haddad, Pistons Chief Operating Officer, communicated the project’s community-driven intentions to Bridge Detroit: “None of us are doing this to make money,” he stated, going on to explain, “The goal here is to build a center of gravity that’s going to attract more investors, more development that’s going to bring more good things to this neighborhood and to the city.” He also mentioned the overarching vision, noting, “It’s all about building an inclusive community here. Our goal is to provide housing for all the people who are going to fill all the jobs that this project is going to create.”
As part of this expansive plan, Henry Ford Health aspires to significantly enlarge its hospital campus. Their ambition is driven by a need to accommodate advanced technologies and provide a superior patient experience. Jerry Darby, vice president of planning, development, and design at Henry Ford, told Bridge Detroit: “We have outgrown our space and our ability to accommodate the newest technologies in the future,” emphasizing the potential for increased efficiency and technological advancement.
A significant part of the development is Michigan State University’s intent to establish a comprehensive research facility. Norman Hubbard, senior associate vice president of the MSU Office of Health Sciences, highlighted its core mission to Bridge Detroit: “The focus here really is driven by cancer disparities and health equity. African American males are more than twice as likely to die of prostate cancer. Black women are more than one and a half times as likely to die of breast cancer.”
In addition, the Gilbert Family Foundation has pledged a generous $375 million donation to augment the patient tower and financially back a research lab inside the MSU facility, targeting neurofibromatosis research.
Seemingly, this venture presents Detroit with an opportunity for transformative growth, merging economic advancement with community enrichment.
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