Revving up the Motor City : targeted neighborhood redevelopment in Detroit

Abstract

This thesis is an analysis of an ambitious redevelopment plan for a two square mile area in the city of Detroit, Michigan. This area is dominated by city-owned vacant lots, which make up half of the neighborhood. The plan, called the Far Eastside Project, is to rebuild the area with 4,000 homes and additional commercial space over the next 12 years. I analyze this plan, comparing it to strategies of neighborhood redevelopment in urban planning literature. My assessment of the plan is generally negative, showing some holes in the plan and the city strategy. I compare it to a similar sized part of the city that has had much successful redevelopment over the past five years, using this area as an example of a better revitalization strategy. I conclude with lessons for the future and suggestions for picking areas for targeted redevelopment.