State of the City

Rise Higher Detroit!

Mayor Mary Sheffield gave her first State of the City address on March 31, 2026 at Mumford High School, reflecting on Detroit’s remarkable transformation and the road ahead.

Subscribe to the Mayor Sheffield's weekly Update to Residents newsletter or receive information emails from City of Detroit Departments here: GovDelivery Sign-Up.

Detroit’s Plan for People: Real Investments, Immediate Benefits — Here’s what to know after Mayor Mary Sheffield’s first State of the City and how you can get involved.

In her first year in office, Mayor Sheffield announced major steps to make life more affordable, safer, and more connected in every neighborhood. Below is a breakdown of the new programs, what they mean for you and your family, and what’s next.

Move Detroit Incentive

What’s happening: New incentive offers up to $15,000 toward home purchase plus $1,000 relocation bonus for moving into designated Detroit neighborhoods.

What it means for you: If you’re considering moving to Detroit—or buying here—this subsidy can significantly lower your upfront costs and make homeownership more attainable.

What’s next: Check out MoveDetroit.com for more information on eligibility and for info on how to apply.

Living Wage for City Employees

What’s happening: City of Detroit’s minimum compensation for city employees will increase to $44,616 annually on July 1.

What it means for you: More city workers will receive higher, stable pay—boosting household budgets and supporting local businesses through increased spending.

What’s next: For city employees: check HR communications for paycheck updates and FAQs. For residents and job seekers: learn about related job openings online here: detroitmi.gov/opportunities/jobs.

Ride to Rise: Show ID, Students Ride Free

What’s happening: Free bus rides for K–12 students, every day of the year, starting April 1.

What it means for you: Lower daily child transportation costs, easier access to school, activities, and summer programming—no fare required for students.

How it works: Students simply present their valid school-issued ID to the bus operator upon boarding — no app, no pass, no paperwork required. The program covers all standard city bus routes, any time of day, seven days a week.

Who qualifies: Any K–12 student enrolled in public, charter, or private school with a valid school-issued ID.

When it's valid: 7 days a week and 365 days because learning doesn't stop at 3 p.m. or on summer vacation

RxKids Program

What’s happening: The RxKids program has paid out $1.6 million and approved 1,200+ applications to cover prescription costs for eligible kids.

What it means for you: If you have children who need prescription meds, you may qualify for reduced or fully covered costs right away.

How to apply: Check eligibility and apply online here: rxkids.org/communities/detroit.

Brighten Up the Block

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What’s happening: Plan to install 3,000 mid-block streetlights across Detroit neighborhoods.

What it means for you: Improved safety, better-lit sidewalks and sidewalks, and stronger neighborhood presence at night.

What’s next: Before finalizing the lighting plan, the City of Detroit and the PLA will host a series of community input meetings in every City Council district during the month of April. Find the full schedule here: detroitmi.gov/news/mayor-announce-restore-mid-block-lighting-city.