In the heart of Detroit, where resilience meets opportunity, a transformative initiative is reshaping the landscape of the city, one neighborhood at a time.
The Strategic Neighborhood Fund (SNF), a collaborative effort between the City of Detroit, Invest Detroit, neighborhood residents and corporate benefactors, serves as a guiding light of hope and progress in the Motor City’s ongoing revitalization journey.
Launched in 2016, SNF was conceived as more than just a revitalization program -- it’s a testament to the power of community engagement and partnership.
SNF focuses on four key areas: park improvements, streetscape enhancements, commercial corridor development and affordable single-family home stabilization. It places residents at the forefront of decision-making to ensure projects align with the unique needs and aspirations of each individual neighborhood.
With a current footprint that spans across 10 communities, including Jefferson Chalmers, Islandview/Greater Villages and Southwest/Vernor, SNF has presented an opportunity for positive change, as it leverages both public and private investments to breathe new life into Detroit’s urban fabric.
The impact of SNF: Building stronger communities
The impact of SNF is tangible and far-reaching.
“In its first two phases, the SNF raised $75 million, matched by $110 million in public sector funding for its programs,” said Jermaine Ruffin, vice president of Neighborhoods, Invest Detroit.
That resulted in a total investment of more than $262 million. The substantial infusion of capital has yielded notable outcomes:
- 78,000 square feet of new retail space: Vibrant commercial corridors are essential to the economic vitality of any neighborhood. SNF has facilitated the creation of new retail spaces, which fosters entrepreneurship and job opportunities.
- Renovated parks and streetscapes: Green spaces and well-maintained streetscapes are the lifeblood of thriving communities. SNF has revitalized parks and streetscapes, which provides residents with safe and inviting public spaces to gather and connect.
- Affordable housing initiatives: Access to affordable housing is fundamental to ensure the inclusivity and diversity of Detroit’s neighborhoods. SNF has spearheaded the development and rehabilitation of housing units, addressing the critical need for both affordable and market-rate options.
Ruffin said analysis has revealed significant decreases in poverty and residential vacancies in all 10 neighborhoods currently targeted by SNF.
“Population has actually increased in six of the 10 SNF neighborhoods,” he said.
This seems to point toward a renewed sense of optimism and confidence in Detroit’s future.
The next phase of SNF
As SNF embarks on its third phase, the Gilbert Family Foundation has emerged as a pivotal partner, committing $15 million as the lead funder. This contribution is part of the foundation’s broader commitment to invest $500 million over 10 years, in collaboration with the Rocket Community Fund, to empower Detroit neighborhoods and create pathways to opportunity.
The infusion of funding will enable SNF to expand its reach and deepen its impact, building upon the successes of the first two phases. With a renewed sense of purpose and momentum, SNF 3.0 is poised to accelerate the revitalization efforts, ensuring that all Detroit residents have access to vibrant, thriving communities they can proudly call home.
As the city of Detroit continues its resurgence, SNF helps to pave a path toward a more equitable, inclusive and prosperous future for all.
If you would like to donate to directly support SNF’s initiative, click or tap here.
To learn more about SNF, click or tap here.