• Residents invited to help shape vision for their neighborhood at October 16 visioning workshop

The City of Detroit’s Planning and Development Department (PDD) is inviting residents of the Denby, Moross-Morang, Outer Drive-Hayes and Yorkshire Woods neighborhoods to participate in the first community meeting for the new Denby/Whittier Neighborhood Framework Plan. The visioning workshop will take place on Thursday, October 16, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Heilmann Recreation Center (19601 Brock Ave).

The framework planning process will build a long-term, community-driven vision for the area, focusing on strategies that strengthen housing, encourage new investment, support neighborhood businesses, and enhance parks, streetscapes, and public spaces. Through a series of meetings and engagement sessions, residents will have the opportunity to identify priorities and share ideas that reflect their vision for the future of Denby/Whittier.

“This process is about listening to residents first,” said Alexa Bush, Director of the Planning and Development Department. “Every successful neighborhood plan in Detroit starts with the voices of the people who live there, and we want to ensure that the Denby/Whittier communities have a strong hand in shaping the vision for what comes next.”

At this first meeting, residents will participate in interactive visioning activities and group discussions about their neighborhood’s strengths, challenges, and opportunities. All ages are welcome, and food and refreshments will be provided.

The Denby/Whittier plan will build upon the City’s ongoing investment in the neighborhoods through housing, infrastructure, and community development programs. Once completed, the framework will guide future decisions on land use, streetscapes, housing development, commercial corridors, and green spaces, ensuring that new investments align with community priorities.

The City encourages all residents, business owners, and community stakeholders to attend and share their ideas for the future of the Denby/Whittier area.  

Event Details - 

What: Denby/Whittier Neighborhood Framework Plan – Community Meeting #1

When: Thursday, October 16, 2025 | 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Where: Heilmann Recreation Center, 19601 Brock Ave., Detroit, MI 48205 

Who: Hosted by the City of Detroit Planning & Development Department

Contact: Sherelle Streeter, East Region Planner City of Detroit Planning & Development Department Email: [email protected] | Phone: 313-224-1295

Residents can learn more and sign up for updates at: 👉 detroitmi.gov/denbywhittier.