The Detroit Futures studio addresses two main issues within the East Warren/Cadieux area of Detroit. It concentrates on converting abandoned architectural gems into active community areas, and addressing the abundance of vacant lots to design family-friendly, walkable communities. The studio is made up of four groups to formulate different approaches in this redevelopment.
Group 1: Young families increasingly favor dense, walkable communities, prompting multi-family development in Downtown Detroit. To retain these households our proposal enhances quality of life through four areas: housing, food & culture, recreation, and youth programming.
Group 2: The plan includes three phases: converting the Alger Theater into a music venue with various commercial uses, establishing the Hotel Alger to celebrate the city’s music history, and adding affordable residential units financed through LIHTC.
Group 3: The East Warren neighborhood exemplifies the need for revitalization, as residents advocate for the preservation of the historic Alger Theater while addressing vacant residential lots. Our proposal aims to foster economic growth and community stability.
Group 4: The Cultivation Corridor Development Plan focuses on enhancing infrastructure in East Warren/Cadieux, addressing challenges like low graduation rates and vacant properties. This plan aims to create welcoming spaces for all ages and foster community growth. The site plan features areas for various initiatives, such as a theater, home repair workshops, rental unit development, and profitable farming, including flowers and mushrooms for beautification and income.