Exciting Changes Ahead for Farmington Hills with New Master Plan
Farmington Hills is buzzing with excitement as the city unveils its first new master plan since 2009! This fresh plan lays the groundwork for the future development of our vibrant community and is packed with a vision that balances growth with the needs of residents.
What is a Master Plan?
You might be wondering, “What exactly is a master plan?” Great question! Master plans serve as a blueprint for how a city develops over time. They provide guidance on land use, transportation, infrastructure, and even community services. Think of it as a roadmap that helps local leaders navigate the complex landscape of city planning.
A Collaborative Effort
The new master plan was unanimously approved by the City Council on August 12 and is the product of countless discussions and input from the community. Charmaine Kettler-Schmult, director of the Planning and Community Development Department, captured the essence perfectly. “The master plan is a reflection of all of our efforts communicating with the community, the Planning Commission, and finally, our City Council,” she noted. “It’s about creating places that matter, quality redevelopments, and a good mix of housing and economic development.”
What’s Included in the Plan?
The master plan consists of 59 objectives that aim to shape the city over the next 50 years. In the plan, a strong emphasis is placed on affordable housing as well as preserving existing neighborhoods. Providing various housing options will accommodate different demographics, including our older residents.
Another exciting element in the plan is its focus on nonmotorized transportation. Many community members expressed a desire for increased walkability and bike-friendliness. Jill Bahm from Giffels Webster, the planning consultant for the city, highlighted this need during the City Council meeting and described the demand as something “really resonating with people.”
Corridors at the Center of Development
As the city gears up for potential growth, the master plan identifies three main corridors that will be the focus of future developments:
- The 12 Mile corridor between Orchard Lake Road and Haggerty Road
- The Orchard Lake Road corridor from north of 12 Mile Road to 14 Mile Road
- The Grand River corridor extending from Farmington’s limits to Inkster Road
These corridors are seen as areas ripe for development, and Kettler-Schmult indicated that they’re currently working on zoning regulations to facilitate the changes, fueled by upcoming market studies. The insights gained from these studies will ensure that developments meet the needs of our community.
Community Engagement is Key
The journey to this new master plan has involved a lot of community engagement. Bahm mentioned how important it was to hold open houses and workshops to gather input. The overwhelming participation showcased how much residents care about shaping their environment.
City Councilman Jon Aldred is also optimistic about the objectives outlined in the plan, particularly the emphasis on mixed-use redevelopment. “There’s 59 objectives, which is a big number,” he stated. “In some areas we can have a combination of business and residents, where it makes sense.”
Next Steps and Implementation
With the master plan approved, the city aims to start moving forward with the necessary ordinance amendments to make these visions a reality. “It’s taken us three years to get to this point,” Kettler-Schmult said, emphasizing the importance of making the needed regulatory changes.
An Invitation to Stay Informed
It’s an exciting time for Farmington Hills, with new opportunities on the horizon! If you’re interested in exploring the details further, a full copy of the master plan is available for public viewing. It’s a wonderful chance for everyone to stay informed and engaged as our city embarks on this journey of transformation!
With collaboration, community input, and clear objectives, the state of Farmington Hills is poised for a bright and appealing future. The new master plan isn’t just a document—it’s a commitment to the values and desires of the people who call this city home!
