When Detroiters think about the long-term health and stability of their communities, quality housing is always at the top of the list. But as housing prices increase throughout the city, some residents are concerned about affordability and accessibility.
It’s a challenge that the North Corktown Neighborhood Association set out to address with support from the Gilbert Family Foundation. Recently, the two organizations announced a new effort that will provide high-quality and attainable homes for Detroiters to own.
“For years, we’ve heard from our residents that North Corktown needs diverse housing options, and this project is one solution to address the housing gaps,” said Tricia Talley, NCNA executive director. “We appreciate the support of residents who are proud to call North Corktown home and want to collaborate on bringing the project to life.”
That effort, called Tomorrow’s Housing Innovation Showcase, will engage up to nine different manufacturers, each of which will build a modern, energy-efficient home.
According to the Gilbert Family Foundation, NCNA will establish a community land trust to manage the project. This will ensure the homes are developed in alignment with the community’s needs, as well as guarantee local renters and first-time homebuyers get the opportunity to own the homes.
Laura Grannemann, executive director of the Gilbert Family Foundation, said the parcels that will be used for the project have been vacant for decades and will now be put to good use.
“At one time in our history, Detroit built more housing than any city in the world, but today, Detroit lacks quality, affordable housing solutions,” she said. “This investment will showcase the next generation of housing solutions, putting Detroit at the center of housing innovation and attracting future jobs and investment to our city.”
Grannemann said the foundation aims at fostering an inclusive Detroit where all residents can prosper.
NCNA leaders said the association has engaged with Tribe Development for the project. The real estate development, which focuses on creating holistic community solutions, plans to facilitate community engagement meetings through the middle of 2024.
NCNA and Gilbert Family Foundation leaders said North Corktown residents will be asked to provide feedback on the community land trust governance, design considerations and other important areas, as it will play a critical role in defining the direction of the project.
According to NCNA and the Gilbert Family Foundation, the factory-built homes will be unveiled in late 2024.
“We are grateful for this opportunity to lay the groundwork for a more stable housing ecosystem alongside our partners at North Corktown Neighborhood Association,” Grannemann said.
For more information about NCNA, click or tap here.
For more information about the Gilbert Family Foundation, click or tap here.