Working to Beautify Detroit

The Cities of Promise is an interagency initiative led by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) that aims to redevelop communities and reduce poverty. The cities which were selected are those that are experiencing sometimes, devastating conditions because of declining population, extreme poverty, loss of industry and jobs, crumbling infrastructure, and blighted neighborhoods. The cities include: Benton Harbor, Detroit, Flint, Hamtramck, Highland Park, Muskegon Heights, Pontiac, and Saginaw.

 As part of Detroit’s Cities of Promise Strategy, NDNI focuses on several strategic initiatives, including “Neighborhoods In Bloom”.  This initiative includes blight elimination, vacant lot reclamation, and safe routes to school. 

  Currently, there are thousands of abandoned or vacant parcels scattered throughout our NDNI neighborhoods creating eyesores and safety concerns.  NDNI has created a strategy to include community organizations and volunteer participation to reclaim these vacant lots and beautify our blocks.  In September, nine community-based organizations were awarded mini-grants up to $2,000 each as part of ‘Neighborhoods In Bloom’ to clean up and maintain vacant lots, purchase tools and supplies, beautify public spaces and increase volunteerism. 

 “NDNI recognizes that many of the block clubs and community groups maintain vacant lots  within their respective neighborhoods to the best of their ability every day because they care.  We wanted to make sure they have the necessary resources to continue their volunteer efforts”. 

 Now through December, look for community banners being installed along the corridors and more people out participating in clean-up beautification activities. 

-Monica Smith