DETROIT – A Detroit Montessori school has filed a lawsuit against Chick-fil-A and a local developer over traffic concerns related to a new restaurant location under construction on Mack Avenue.
The Giving Tree Montessori School’s lawsuit was filed against both Chick-fil-A and Verus Development Group, arguing the development violates city zoning laws.
The dispute centers on a city ordinance that prohibits fast-food restaurants from being built within 500 feet of schools. While The Giving Tree Montessori School wasn’t officially registered as a school until June 2024 - after the project’s approval - the lawsuit argues Chick-fil-A should be required to request a land use change before continuing construction.
“This obviously isn’t going to be appropriate for the safety of our children,” said school owner Renee Chown. “As you can see through the fence, how far back they have come, how much space we have lost, and bottom line is, it’s not going to be safe.”
The school’s playground is now fenced off as construction continues on the adjacent property. Site plans show the restaurant’s drive-thru will extend to the school’s property line, raising concerns about student privacy and safety.
The city initially rejected the Chick-fil-A proposal in 2023 due to traffic concerns. The Detroit Board of Zoning Appeals overturned that decision in March 2024, with the requirement that drive-thru entrances and exits be put on Mack Avenue rather than Marseilles Street, where the school faces.
Chown worries traffic will still spill over onto her street, where the school’s pick up and drop off is located.
“They can build anywhere but here,” Chown said. “Chick-fil-A can go anywhere but here.”
Verus Development Group did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the lawsuit.
