Olympia Development of Michigan (ODM) announces the contribution of $100,000 to the Detroit Downtown Development Authority (DDA) for a future development planning study for the lower Cass Corridor and Grand River Corridor. The study will lay the groundwork for optimal development that best benefits the community.

“As we continue the development of The District Detroit, we want to ensure we are developing in a way that is most beneficial to Detroiters,” said Keith Bradford, President of Olympia Development of Michigan and The District Detroit.  “We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with the Planning Department and we look forward to working closely with them on a masterplan for these important neighborhoods.” 

The planning study will outline a vision and recommended land use strategies to support future development. The planning study is expected to begin next year. In consideration for this contribution and to support development in accordance with the study, parcels located within the study area will have their development agreement deadline extended to five years from the completion of the study.

Antoine Bryant, Director of Planning and Development shared, “One of our central beliefs as a city is that residents and businesses should have a say in how their neighborhood develops and we provide that opportunity through our neighborhood planning studies.  The Lower Cass Corridor is about to be at the center of a significant amount of development and we are very appreciative that Olympia Development is helping to fund the effort to seek meaningful community input as we move forward.”

The updated agreement was approved by the DDA board at its meeting earlier today.

“We are pleased to continue collaboration with the City and Olympia Development of Michigan on this important planning study for the lower Cass Corridor. It’s critical that as downtown continues its revitalization, we properly allocate resources and opportunities to benefit the city’s residents,” said Kenyetta Bridges, chief operating officer for the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation. “This study will help ensure development offers amenities that serve the community.”

Olympia Development is committed to development of The District Detroit and progress continues on multiple sites. Current or future development projects include the restoration of seven historic buildings on Henry Street that is expected to being this year; Bagley Development Group’s restoration of the Residences@150 Bagley (formerly the United Artists Building) that is expected to be completed next year, and multiple dining options that have opened including Basan, Frita Batidos, Good Cakes and Bakes Detroit, JoJo’s ShakeBAR and Sahara Restaurant and Grill.  In addition, a pop-up experience at 44 W. Columbia Street in celebration of Miguel Cabrera’s legendary and lengthy Major League career will be open on select days throughout September and prior to the Detroit Tigers’ regular season finale on Sunday, Oct. 1.