For the first couple weeks here on Michigan Ave, my work has revolved around plans.
First — A protocol, written by a national organization, describing a plan to create ecodistricts around the country.
Then, I dived into 700+ pages of a Detroit Future City strategic framework as a immediate, short, and long term plan to rebuild the city of Detroit.
I’ve also been working on the HOPE Village strategic framework (in conjunction with Detroit Future City) on their plan.
And reading about the West Village Sustainability Framework, which is their long-term plan to create a sustainable neighborhood.
So basically, a lot of talk.
But finally, instead of just talking the talk, this week I’ve gotten a chance to walk the walk.
I went to a “Dreaming and Designing” workshop for residents who own or are considering buying a vacant lot. This was the first workshop of the “Eco-D” project – something that has been in the planning stages for two years. Finally, the project is getting off the ground, and I’m happy to be a part of it.
The picture is a sketch by one of the residents on what he would do with a vacant lot. We worked with Dean Hay of Greening of Detroit, as well as a UM architect who showed up, on coming up with creative ways to repurpose land.
The other community engaging I did was a meeting on Monday night with the West Village Sustainability Committee. It was a group of young people who were all living together in this super-sustainable home in West Village, complete with solar panels on the garage. Getting feedback on our planning from the community, and presenting my work to them was very rewarding after a couple weeks of primarily office work. We were able to set dates on things, and we’re moving forward.
I can’t wait to keep doing this kind of work, and talking to people within the community. And next time I’ll take more pictures!
