Detroit's housing landscape is seeing a tangible boost as Central Detroit Christian Community Development Corporation and 360 Detroit have put shovels in the ground for "West Euclid Gateway." This rehab project, on the initiation turf, will transform eight vacant duplexes and a 4-plex into 20 affordable housing units within the Virginia Park neighborhood. As highlighted by an announcement from the Mayor's office, this development is geared towards families earning at or below 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI).
During the ceremonial groundwork, Mayor Mike Duggan, flanked by Detroit City Council members and LISC Detroit representatives, expressed his optimism for the project. "Thanks to our funders and the Detroit Housing for the Future Fund, we can continue building a city where people of all income levels are able to live in any neighborhood. These properties will bring life back to the community and provide quality affordable family housing in a neighborhood that is starting to see a lot of new investment," Mayor Duggan told detroitmi.gov. Sustained affordability is a highlight of the endeavor, with a guarantee in place for the next 11 years.
A significant financial infusion for West Euclid Gateway comes from the Detroit Housing for the Future Fund (DHFF), in partnership with LISC Detroit, and contributions from organizations like the Gilbert Family Foundation. Together, they're nurturing a neighborhood once marred by disinvestment. According to the announcement by LISC, “By aligning private capital with community organizations, we’re creating quality, affordable housing and driving sustainable growth in historically underserved neighborhoods. This project reflects our commitment to inclusive development, ensuring Detroit remains a city where residents of all income levels can thrive,” as noted by detroitmi.gov.
Residents of the new units can expect 1,000 to 1,200 square feet of renovated space, tailored with modern amenities like new kitchens and laundry areas. In addition to domestic comfort, the project promises connectivity to local services including the Joseph Walker Williams Recreation Center and Henry Ford Health System. Pulling back further, West Euclid Gateway is but one piece in a $30 million effort encompassing 15 single-family home rehabilitations nearby. "The transformation we are seeing and will continue to see as housing units come on line is amazing," Lisa Johnson, founder & executive director of CDC, told detroitmi.gov.
Rich in implications, the initiative bucks the trend of urban disrepair, a promise shared by George Adams, Jr., the founder of 360 Detroit. Reflecting on the past struggles of the neighborhood, he stated in the news release, “Nearly a decade later, we now have the opportunity to be part of their revitalization—an effort that will reshape the neighborhood and leave a lasting impact for generations to come.”
