DEARBORN – The city is presenting developers an opportunity to be part of the continued revitalization of its west end downtown commercial district.
A 70-foot by-116-foot vacant lot at the northeast corner of Michigan Avenue and Howard owned by the city is for sale for the development of a catalyst project that will amplify other investments in the district and spur additional activity.
The minimum bid is $20,000, and other criteria must be met under the request for proposal. Responses are due April 24.
The property, at 22190 Michigan Ave., is zoned for the highest intensity of commercial use.
Downtown west Dearborn is a traditional, walkable destination with historic significance and the site of more than $100 million in new investment in the last 20 years. The nationwide financial crisis in 2008 slowed momentum in the district, but recent opportunities have positioned the district for the next wave of redevelopment.
The city acquired the property from Wayne County through the foreclosure process. Another property on Michigan Avenue offered for sale under similar circumstances is the focus of a hotel project, along with several new restaurants and businesses.
Those submitting proposals for 22910 Michigan Ave. will be able to take advantage of infrastructure improvements to the district, including the resurfacing of Michigan Avenue, the redesign and resurfacing of all city-owned parking areas in the district, upgrades to a pedestrian and bicycle path, and the construction of a new intermodal passenger rail station.
It is one of the busiest commercial districts in southeast Michigan, and is 1.5 miles from the Southfield Freeway. There are 50,000 vehicles per day on Michigan Avenue and about 100,000 vehicles per day on the Southfield Freeway that travel near this property.
The district also is close to Ford World Headquarters, Fairlane Town Center, the University of Michigan-Dearborn and Henry Ford Community College.
The Henry Ford is adjacent to the business district, and it attracts nearly 2 million visitors per year.
City officials said that while the submitted price will be one factor, the design and catalytic integrity of the proposed redevelopment, financial capacity and redevelopment experience of the project team, and the ability to complete the project according to the city’s schedule are even more important criteria.
Interested developers can contact Purchasing Agent Rae Townsel at 313-943-2209 or email her at rtownsel@ci.dearborn.mi.us for details and an information packet.