Here’s What’s Going on with the Society Hill Development in Novi

You may have heard the buzz about a big, new housing development happening at our neighborhood corner at 12 1/2 Mile Road and Novi Road. Well, here’s the deal. The land’s owner, E & M Holdings LLC, also known as Society Hill, has had the go-ahead to build on the property for 25 years now.

Although the wetlands in this space will be replaced by homes, the decision isn’t about whether the development will happen, it’s about what kind of plan they’ll use for it. We’re talking about a choice between the original plan from 1999 and a freshly proposed 2024 plan.

The developer always had the approved 1999 site plan and could start construction with it anytime. So, this much is clear – something will be built. The question is, what would we prefer, the old design or the new?

The 1999 plan involves popping up 312 large-sized apartments in 23 two- to three-story buildings on the 33.89-acre space. Sounds fair, but these won’t have any private outdoor space or shared facilities like pools or playgrounds.

On the other hand, the 2024 proposal introduces 463 new homes, most of which will have private outdoor spaces. These residences will be set up in 21 buildings, some even reaching up to five stories. Plus, it plans for community amenities like two pools, a soccer field, a tennis court, a playground, a dog park, and 2 miles of walking trails.

What Different Sides are Saying?

Our City mayor views the new proposal as potentially better for Novi than the current plan. On the contrary, some says they have reservations about the increasing building and population density. Don’t forget, residents living nearby have expressed concerns over the disappearance of the wetlands and increased traffic in the area.

The city’s staff and attorneys are revising and reviewing both plans to bring before the council again. Jordan Sasson, from E & M Holdings, has assured they will take into account any questions or concerns raised and will work closely with the city staff to advance the new plan forward.

Exciting as this sounds, whatever happens next is yet to be seen. The final decision will be brought forward in a council meeting at a later date.