Dearborn Seeks Developer for Catalyst Project in Busy Corridor

The City of Dearborn is presenting developers an opportunity to be part of the continued revitalization of its west downtown commercial district.  

A desirable 70-foot-by-16-foot vacant lot in the west downtown owned by the city is for sale for the development of a catalyst project that will amplify other significant investments in the district and spur additional activity.

The minimum bid is $20,000, and other criteria must be met under the request for proposal.  Responses are due April 24.

The property is at 22190 Michigan Ave., at the northeast corner of Howard Street. It is zoned for the highest intensity of commercial use.

Dearborn’s west downtown is a traditional, walkable destination with historic significance and the site of more than $100 million in new investment in the last 20 years.

The nationwide financial crisis in 2008 slowed momentum in the district, but recent opportunities have positioned the district for the next wave of redevelopment.

The city acquired the property at 22910 Michigan Avenue from Wayne County through the foreclosure process.  Another property on Michigan Avenue offered for sale under similar circumstances now is the focus of hotel project, along with several new restaurants and businesses.

Those submitting proposals for 22910 Michigan Ave. will be able to take advantage of infrastructure improvements to the district, including the resurfacing of Michigan Avenue, the redesign and resurfacing of all city-owned parking areas in the district, upgrades to a popular and well-used pedestrian and bicycle path, and the construction of a new intermodal passenger rail station.

It is one of the busiest commercial districts in southeast Michigan, and is close to the Southfield Freeway. There are 50,000 vehicles per day on Michigan  Avenue and about 100,000 vehicles per day on the Southfield Freeway that travel near this property.

The district is also close to Ford World Headquarters, Fairlane Town Center, the University of Michigan-Dearborn and Henry Ford Community College.

Notably, The Henry Ford: America’s Greatest History Attraction is adjacent to the business district, and it attracts nearly 2 million visitors per year, as the largest tourist destination in the state.   

Those interested in developing this property should know that while the submitted price will be one factor, the design and catalytic integrity of the proposed redevelopment, financial capacity and redevelopment experience of the project team, and the ability to complete the project according to the city’s schedule are even more important criteria.

Interested developers are asked to contact Purchasing Agent Rae Townsel at (313) 943-2209 or email her at rtownsel@ci.dearborn.mi.us for details and an information packet.