Detroit Looking To Make Big Zoning Changes To Help Boost Housing Growth

City officials was to vote on Thursday on new zoning rules to spark more housing across Detroit. The plan would open up more areas for multi-unit buildings while cutting back strict parking rules that slow growth.

Deputy Chief Operating Officer Andie Taverna stressed the focus on R2 zones - a quarter of city lots that sit unused. "It's universally acknowledged across any city department that works on development that the city's current zoning rules stand as a barrier to redeveloping vacant parcels and structures in R2," Taverna told the Planning Commission on September 18.

To take effect this year, the City Council must approve these updates by November 25. The changes would let property owners add extra units and adjust size limits, making it easier to build on empty lots.

Transit chief Robert Cramer backed the initiative in a September 15 memo. "Allowing for increased density — both of housing and of amenities like retail — along key transit corridors would make it more viable to operate bus rapid transit by increasing the number of passengers within easy walking distance of transit," he wrote.

Meanwhile, officials supported Detroit Pistons owner Tom Gores' plans for a waterfront sports hub at the old Uniroyal location. This space would serve as headquarters for a future WNBA team set to play at Little Caesars Arena in 2029.

Council Member Scott Benson drafted support for the project, which calls for tennis courts, tracks, and water sports facilities. Just one voice opposed - Council Member Latisha Johnson wanted more project specifics before moving forward.

Last year's failed plans for shops and homes at Uniroyal gave way to this sports complex idea. The shift aims to strengthen Detroit's bid for a WNBA team.

In other news, Rouge Park got approval for a $198,974 contract with livingLAB to create its next master plan. The work will mix public input with environmental care to upgrade Michigan's largest city park.

The century-old, 1,181-acre space keeps growing better. Workers fixed up 60 acres of prairie land and walking paths. Any changes should consider the Friends of Rouge Park's 2022 suggestions.