Highland Park Invites Public to Help Shape the City’s Future During Economic Strategy and Branding Open House

June 12, 2025

Highland Park, Michigan hosted an Economic Strategy and Branding Open House on June 10, 2025, to gather community feedback for updating the city's Economic Development Strategy, Master Plan, and Zoning Ordinance. Led by Principal Planner Donavan Smith, this event marked the third public engagement effort in a series designed to revitalize the former industrial hub. The initiative comes at a critical time as Highland Park works to establish a new identity focused on innovation, culture, and sustainability, with key developments including the Joe Louis Greenway project supported by $20 million in American Rescue Plan funds and a $10.

Who is affected

Highland Park residents and business owners
Community members who use public spaces and infrastructure
Local stakeholders represented at the event (including Mama Shu of Homework House and Martell Mason of Sepia Coffee)
Neighborhood communities connected by the Joe Louis Greenway
Users of active transportation systems in the area

What action is being taken

City officials are hosting community engagement events to gather feedback for economic development planning
The Joe Louis Greenway Partnership is implementing a 1.6-mile trail system through Highland Park with federal funding
The city is developing a new branding initiative to tell Highland Park's story
Mayor McDonald is implementing "The City in Motion" plan that includes new lighting infrastructure
Officials are conducting stakeholder events with state-level partners to bring resources to the city

Why it matters

Highland Park's Master Plan hasn't been updated in over a decade, despite significant changes in housing patterns, economic pressures, and environmental priorities
The city is transitioning from its industrial past to a new identity focused on innovation, sustainability, and community resilience
Infrastructure issues like water, streetlights, and road conditions have been ongoing concerns for residents
The Joe Louis Greenway represents a major investment in connecting neighborhoods and providing equitable access to transportation
Community input ensures development plans reflect residents' needs and priorities

What's next

Additional community engagement events will take place throughout summer and fall 2025
Youth workshops will be conducted to include younger residents' perspectives
Neighborhood walking tours will be organized to assess community needs firsthand
Pop-up events at local businesses and community centers will continue gathering input
Implementation of feedback will guide the completion of the updated plans

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle