Holcomb School FAQs

Would deconstruction of the school building be permitted in place of demolition?

No, proposals must include adaptive reuse of the Holcomb Building.

 The diagrams on page 6 of the RFP and in Attachment D show additional lots incorporated into the campus plan that are not shown in the “Holcomb Grounds.” Should they also be included in proposals?

Proposals must incorporate at least the 12 parcels listed in Attachment C, including the larger lot on Karl Street and the 11 contiguous lots on Westbrook Street. Respondents may also propose acquisition of additional publicly-owned parcels beyond those specifically identified in the RFP, such as those shown in the campus concepts. 

 Do any of the properties have a set price?

No minimum prices have been established. All proposals must include a bid price for the properties included in the RFP.

 Can proposals include additional program elements, such as assisting existing homeowners with home repair?

If respondents have additional proposal elements beyond the minimum submission requirements, the City welcomes ideas that will differentiate proposals and provide additional benefits to the community.

 Who is responsible for removing blight from the property?

All properties included in the RFP will be sold as-is. 

 Is the title clear for the school property?

The City is not aware of any title issues with the Holcomb property, which was previously owned by Detroit Public Schools. The selected developer will be responsible for undertaking any title research and securing a commitment for an owner’s policy of title insurance. 

 Is there a list of residential properties available for sale in the Holcomb vicinity?

 

The list of structures currently owned by the Detroit Land Bank Authority available for sale through the Old Redford Neighborhood Revitalization RFP is provided in Attachment B to that RFP. The City does not maintain information on any properties that may be listed for sale through the private market.