Starting in 2004, the Michigan Suburbs Alliance worked closely with our member communities to create Redevelopment Ready Communities (RRC), a certification program that adds predictability and transparency to permitting processes, making it easier for developers to choose to develop infill sites in existing population centers rather than sprawl development.
The program was transferred to the State if Michigan in 2012 and is now being administered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.
The first of its kind in the nation, the Redevelopment Ready Communities program was designed to support and accelerate the adoption of professional practices that cities, developers, business leaders and citizens alike can count on. Using a set of nationally-vetted best practices and standards, RRC helps municipalities build deliberate, fair and consistent development processes from the inside out–and to effectively communicate them to potential investors. The program taps the vision of local residents and businnes owners to shape a community-supported plan for growth. Built-out cities have the advantage of RRC’s uncommon resources of private and public sector expertise as they work towards becoming better attractors for redevelopment.
When a city becomes a certified Redevelopment Ready Community, it signals that it has effective development practices. An RRC community has clear development procedures, a community-supported redevelopment vision, an open and predictable review process and much more compelling sites for developers to locate their latest projects. RRC cities know what kind of city they want to be.
Today, we launch not only a showcase of our work and talented group of experts, but also a home for stories about regional collaboration and the wonderful places that make up metro Detroit.
Press Release: All metro Detroit residents are invited to participate in public meetings this month to provide input into the planning process for rapid transit along Woodward. For the first time in decades, the region will see a rapid transit line to serve those who live and work in the area.
Millennials are underrepresented in local government. They account for 23% of the population in our 22 member cities, but only hold 6% of board and commission seats. The Congress has selected the issue of Millennial representation (or underrepresentation) as its next protocol.