An Ambitious Revitalization Partnership in Detroit

As part of continued efforts to extend Detroit's revitalization beyond the downtown core, a group of stakeholders has come together in the Fitzgerald neighborhood to rehabilitate the area. Serena Maria Daniels writes, "the Fitzgerald effort is part beautification project, part jobs training, part blight removal campaign, and aims to create work opportunities for residents."

Announced in early April, Fitz Forward intends to "redevelop some 300 parcels in the neighborhood. The city and philanthropic foundations have committed $4 million to the project. If successful, the deal — which includes the rehabilitation of vacant homes, and 'green infrastructure' like a 2-acre park — may serve as a model in the city."

Project backers also appear cognizant of the potential for displacement. "At the event announcing the partnership, city officials expressed a desire to revitalize the neighborhood without displacing longtime residents."