Potential development would support Dearborn Historical Museum

The City of Dearborn is inviting the public to view preliminary concepts for the potential development of vacant property at Michigan Avenue and Brady during an open house at 4-7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 30 at the Dingell Transit Center, 21201 Michigan Ave.

The high-visibility parcel is considered a gateway into downtown west Dearborn, and surrounds the Dearborn Historical Museum.

Any future development of the parcel would preserve the museum’s McFadden-Ross House, create an enhanced space for historical exhibits and archives, and generate revenue for the ongoing needs of the museum.

The land is not currently for sale, nor is there a specific developer in mind.

The preliminary concepts are meant to guide future development proposals, and have been shaped with input from the Dearborn Historical Museum and other stakeholders. Preliminary concepts envision multiple uses for the vacant land, including new housing options.

Residents attending the April 30 open house will be able to view displays outlining three different development concepts, ask questions and offer input. The goal is to finalize a preferred concept in by late May.

The City has been provided predevelopment technical assistance as it explores potential developments for this site because it’s a Certified Redevelopment Ready Community (RRC) under the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).

Its RRC status meant the City qualified for a special grant, which has funded the creation of the concepts by the Williams & Works team, led by Lynee Wells of Aligned Planning. Also involved is Ryan Schmidt of Indigo Properties and development manager at ICCF.

This team is highly skilled in architecture, planning, and real estate market analysis and is assisting the City in engaging stakeholders, building consensus, generating realistic development options and preparing materials to potential seek a development partner for the site.

The City has already hosted meetings with groups associated with the Dearborn Historical Commission, as well as the Dearborn Chamber of Commerce and other business advocacy groups, and the nearby neighborhood association.

Revenue from the potential use of the vacant land will be directed to the Dearborn Historical Museum.