North End Plan

Overview

The North End has experienced many transitions in recent years. As new development continues in the area, residents worked with together with city staff during the planning process, from July 2022 to December 2023, to determine future growth and development in the neighborhood. The planning process engaged residents to produce strategies providing guidance on integrating the deep cultural heritage and historic nature of the North End while tackling affordable housing concerns, reactivating Oakland Avenue as a commercial corridor, and addressing quality of life and safety issues related to vacant lot activation, recreation, and safer streets. The outcome is a plan focusing on five main areas: Cultural Heritage & Historic Preservation, Parks & Open Space, Housing & Neighborhood Stabilization, Streets for People, and Commercial Activation.

The North End planning area is bounded by East Grand Boulevard to the South, the City of Highland Park to the North, I-75 and the City of Hamtramck (northern portion of the east boundary) to the East, and Woodward Avenue to the West.

FAQ

What is the North End planning framework?

The North End planning framework is a guiding document to support equitable and inclusive growth and the stability of the North End neighborhood. It was created through a participatory planning process involving residents and community members of the neighborhood over 16 months, from July 2022 to December 2023. The final document includes goals and specific strategies working to improve the quality of life for all current and future residents.

How will the framework be implemented?

The Planning and Development Department (PDD) is not ultimately responsible for fully implementing the Framework. Instead, it is a tool used by other City departments, governing bodies, agencies, and organizations for implementation - identifying where and what types of investments are needed.

PDD will only directly implement recommendations that are functions of our department including zoning, design guidelines, and community engagement. However, PDD supports the implementation of the framework by working directly with other city departments to ensure new development in the neighborhood reflects the framework, advocate for the prioritization of capital improvements (such as street trees and improved sidewalks), and form partnerships to pursue grants for neighborhood improvements when they become available. Additionally, PDD is working on identifying ways it can collaborate with North End residents, stakeholders, and businesses to empower them to work together towards full implementation of the framework.

How does the City’s Master planning process fit in within neighborhood plans?

The City of Detroit’s Master Plan of Policies is a roadmap for Detroit’s future. It assesses where we are now, proposes a shared vision for Detroit’s future, and identifies the policies and actions needed to realize that vision. The Master Plan looks at the city as a whole and will not provide the level of detail specific to neighborhood plans. Neighborhood plans empower communities to identify specific policies, action items, and strategies to improve their neighborhoods in alignment with the city-wide policies identified in the Master Plan. Click here to learn more information on the Master Plan of Policies update.

How do I receive updates on implementation?

Sign up to the project mailing list for updates. You can also email Melanie Batke at [email protected] with any questions or concerns.

City of Detroit

Overview

Click to access the plan here.

News & Events

FAQ

Documents

Infill Development Opportunity Sites

North End Newsletter - September 2024

North End Framework Plan

Framework Plan Boards - Community Meeting #4

North End 3rd Community Meeting Feedback

North End Newsletter - June 2023

Contacts City Directory