The great thing about the Detroit redevelopment boom, compared to other midwestern cities outside of Chicago, is the enormous INVENTORY of prewar buildings that can be rehabbed. Detroit reached 2 million people 50 years ago, and the size of the city and its construction still reflects that. Although there has been a lot of demolition, this stands as a HUGE advantage for Detroit.
The only thing I don't understand is how these people moving into these condos are going to get around. Are there more mixed-use developments with ground level retail forming in some of these new condos? I'm guessing people will basically be driving, but what really needs to be done is a comprehensive agreement that "hey, we need transit services", although I realize that is years away.
I like that Jennifer Granholm has been supportive of Detroit's rebirth. I just worry that if Michigan gets a Republican Governer again, it'll be in trouble
|