Westland, MI (May 7, 2019) - On Monday, May 06, 2019, City Council approved a resolution of intent for the Westland to participate in the Redevelopment Ready Communities (RRC) Program with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).
The RRC Program was designed by the MEDC to improve on the processes for economic redevelopment within communities and streamline efforts for attracting new business and development to communities. In doing so, it will signal to potential developers that Westland is a community that has removed restrictive red tape and is cooperative with developers. Participating in this program will identify areas in need of improvement to remove obstacles for potential developers that may otherwise deter their efforts.
The MEDC has developed RRC 'Best Practices' that establish and idealize ways for communities to attract and improve upon the quality of businesses and business districts. Among these 'Best Practices' are ways to involve input from many stakeholders in the community, such as residents; previously established business owners; various government entities; and other potential developers. This Practice was enacted to increase the overall quality of the community by utilizing as much input as possible. Other Practices include the review of current regulations and establishing "Redevelopment Ready Sites" for developers.
The RRC Program not only focuses on economic development, but overall community development as well. Some examples of this would include, increased use of non-motorized transportation methods; new housing suggestions to increase fellowship in the community; and increase resident involvement with the improvement of their own backyard.
There is no cost to participate in the RRC certification program and additional state funding will be available once the community becomes officially engaged in the program.
With the city's ambitious redevelopment plans to establish a new neighborhood on the Ford Rd. Corridor and a City Centre District around the Westland Shopping Center, it is important for us to examine our policies and procedures to ensure we are poised to attract new development and to further the adopted Master Plan and overall general welfare of the City.," commented Economic Development Director, Aubrey Berman. "Having attended the required training sessions and passing the resolution of intent, we will now complete a self-evaluation that will officially engage us in the program, making us eligible for technical and financial assistance from the State of Michigan as we work towards certification."
For more information, please call Kathy Suchora at (734) 467-3200
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