Suburban downtowns
There was an interesting article in yesterday’s Free Press about the increasing trend amongst Detroit’s second and third-ring suburbs (i.e., Novi, Royal Oak, etc.) to build downtown areas of their own. The article mentioned the fact that West Bloomfield passed a vote earlier this week which will amend its township’s master plan to allow for commercial developments in certain areas within the city.
Like the author of the article, I am also interested in finding out what effect this new suburban trend will have on Detroit.
In addition, I am also wondering why the suburbs, which have continuously marketed themselves around their serene environments and maze-like subdivisions (which are specifically designed to keep everyone but their homeowners out), now want to be part of the busy and high-strung environment that characterizes a city?
Are Metro Detroiters finally beginning to see what Detroiters love so much about living in the city?
The suburbs are trying to make up for lost revenue, a “downtown” brings people, which bring business, which brings money. Most of the “downtown”s are isolated to one main drag, and away from residential areas.
But I am concerned of what this could mean for the real downtown. The suburbs need Detroit as much, if not more so than Detroit needs the suburbs. If Detroit falters any more in any way, it could spell disaster for the suburbs as well.
I agree, Lance. I just wish the suburbs would figure that out. Thank you for the comment.