Source Joan Nelson via Lansing City Pulse
As we ponder our downtown these days, most of us think of government offices (drastically reduced by the exodus of 30,000 state workers since COVID); the traditional central business district with its slowly and steadily growing retail and restaurant offerings; emerging arts and entertainment entities (Grewal Hall and, under construction, the Ovation); well-regarded colleges such as LCC; and, most exciting, significant new residential development.
Current and pending housing projects promise the most dramatic and impactful changes to our downtown. The recently completed Comprehensive Marketing Analysis, prepared by LandUseUSA, prioritizes residential development, along with commercial growth, and creation of more public outdoor gathering spaces. Regarding residential development, the study reads: “Demand is high for downtown housing, catering to different family structures and income levels, and amenities that are accessible within a 15-minute walk.”
The study advises decision makers to “avoid over-building new detached houses for owners and explore alternative formats like side-by-side duplexes and townhouses.” The plan sets goals for townhouses, condos, and, of course, more apartments — “up to 1,127 new units throughout the downtown each year, including 910 lofts, walkups, and courtyard apartments. Diversify the choices with 123 new for-lease townhouses with private entrances and stoops; and 94 accessory dwellings, small cottages, and units in small apartment houses.” (These are welcome words to this shared-use housing advocate!)
Downtown Lansing Inc. was deeply involved in the market study and has been hard at work advancing the priorities. “I am very excited about the major focus on housing,” Cathleen Edgerly, DLI’s executive director, said. “We saw what happens when you put all of your eggs in one basket and rely on state day workers to maintain a vibrant downtown.”
