I wonder what's fueling this Detroit comeback...
Two Words: Dan Gilbert
His companies; notably Quicken Loans relocated to downtown Detroit some years ago from the burbs. His development group (Bedrock) has also been behind several renewal projects.
Here's just one story, following the 2021 announcement of 500M donated to renewing Detroit:
Quicken Loans Inc. founder said effort will focus the first $15 million on overdue property taxes homeowners owe
www.detroitnews.com
Beyond that, key factors include the Bankruptcy of the City of Detroit, which allowed it to shed a great deal of debt; Ford Motor company decided to rehab the long abandoned Michigan Central rail depot, and the large donation/bequest by the late Ralph Wilson to waterfront parkland as key items.
Michigan Central; before / after: (prior to any restoration)
Source:
https://www.bridgemi.com/urban-affa...ing-passenger-trains-michigan-central-station
Current State: (restoration ongoing)
The Park:
The Story So Far...In early 2017 the Detroit RiverFront Conservancy (Conservancy) embarked upon a journey to transform West Riverfront Park into a dynamic gathering place for all Detroiters – and a unique destination for our region and beyond.Conservancy leadership asked the question:"How can we...
detroitriverfront.org
The City now has momentum; on top of that Gordie Howe will open in the not to distant future, with many associated renewal investments in the adjacent area.
Fair credit to the current Mayor (Duggan) who has focused, post-Bankruptcy on a lot of basics (all new LED streetlights, getting lawns mowed, and trash picked up); and to the voters of suburban Detroit, who have voted for a .mil rate (dedicated property tax) to enhance regional bus services.
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For all of that, much of Detroit is empty; and much remains impoverished. Many announced developments have yet to materialize, and overall population of the area is only now stabilizing. Its a long road back from the abyss.