News & Blog

The pandemic has created many challenges that have disrupted everyone’s way of life. From social outings and travel to work and education, life looks different now. 

At the beginning of 2020, many Americans struggled with paying bills, buying groceries, and other financials, and by July 2020, approximately 31 million people reported that they were unable to work due to pandemic-related issues. In 2021, the Department of Labor reported millions of people facing financial hardships, such as the inability to pay rent or buy groceries.  

Now, in 2022, many businesses are transitioning back to “business as normal” with the increase of people getting vaccinated. Michiganders can visit a movie theatre, get their hair and nails done, and dine-in at local eateries. In addition, most educational institutions have adapted to a hybrid model, allowing students and faculty to work in-person or remotely. Cities have also been able to resume construction projects as an increasing number of employees return to work. 

The city of Detroit is also bouncing back after the turmoil caused by the ongoing pandemic. In the coming year, the city is planning to expand housing and increase available listings, boost employment, and rejuvenate some amazing parks and trails. 

Detroit’s New Development Projects 

1. Joe Louis Greenway: A 27-mile loop for biking and hiking, starting at the Detroit Riverfront and passing through Dearborn, Hamtramck, and Highland Park. 
2. Ford’s Mobility Innovation District: A walkable 30-acre Corktown campus next to the renovated Michigan Central Station that will serve as the automaker’s hub for research and development for a range of new mobility products, from self-driving cars to non-gas vehicles. 
3. Love Building: Once this space is completed, the Allied Media Projects will share it with Detroit Community Technology Project, Detroit Disability Power, Detroit Justice Center, Detroit Narrative Agency, and Paradise Natural Foods to promote unity and social justice in the community. 
4. Dreamtroit: A mixed-use development with 81 apartments and 38,000 square feet of commercial space. 
5. Osi Art Apartments: A colorful, four-story, 30-unit housing complex in Woodbridge, half the units are set aside for people with household incomes of less than $60,000 and commercial space is available for rent.
6. Former Michigan State Fairgrounds turn to Amazon Distribution Center: 142 acres, 78 of which are currently being leased to Amazon, will be turned into a distribution center that will employ approximately 1,200 workers. 

Learn more information about these projects here. 

The development projects are not the only change the city is making. During the COVID-19 pandemic, real estate listings dropped by 4.4% statewide, but in 2021, listings increased by 5%. Through construction developments and market changes, real estate experts believe that some neighborhoods are going to become hotspots for future homebuyers, which will in turn boost local economies and job markets.  

Various real estate companies have discovered a few Detroit neighborhoods with upcoming developments that you will not want to miss. Although Detroiters are currently living through a pandemic, there is light at the end of the tunnel. 

Neighborhoods to Watch  

• Houses on the Eastside are hitting their 100-year marker this year, promoting them to historic titles 
• O’Conor Real Estate reports listings less than $100,000 in Corktown 
• Kevin Hill of the Detroit Realtor reports new townhomes in Bush Park  

Learn more about the real estate changes in Detroit here. 

Written by Ainsley King, Detroit Regional Chamber