Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield holds a microphone while announcing the new Neighborhood Beautification program at a recent press conference. | City of Detroit Government/Facebook
Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield holds a microphone while announcing the new Neighborhood Beautification program at a recent press conference. | City of Detroit Government/Facebook
The Neighborhood Beautification Program, spearheaded by City Council President Mary Sheffield, was announced last week in alliance with the Housing and Revitalization Department and the Department of Neighborhoods.
“When I created the Neighborhood Improvement Fund, I had one goal in mind, which was bringing resources and assistance to neighborhoods outside of downtown and Midtown. The Neighborhood Beautification Program is a manifestation of that vision, and I am thoroughly excited to bring this opportunity forward, allowing our neighborhoods to directly benefit from tax abatements downtown,” said Sheffield in a news release.
The release reported that the alliance unveiled how interested block clubs and neighborhood associations can apply for grants moving forward.
“I, along with the other members of the Field Street Block and Islandview community, have been looking for ways to aesthetically improve our neighborhood and enhance our Community Garden and Fridge. The announcement of the Neighborhood Beautification Program represents a path forward in those endeavors and an example of Council President Sheffield honoring her commitment to the residents of Detroit,” said Jennine Spencer, president of the Field Street Block Club.
Sheffield established the Neighborhood Improvement Fund to provide community benefits that were agreed upon when the city approved the construction of the Detroit Piston's new headquarters and training facility in District 5, according to the city.
“The Duggan administration is committed to making sure that every neighborhood has a future and combined with blight-elimination and single-family stabilization efforts, this fund will go a long way to making those neighborhoods stronger and more beautiful places to live and raise a family in our city,” said Tamra Fountaine Hardy, director of HRD’s Neighborhood Services Division.
The city reported that funding will come from tax revenue generated from Detroit Pistons home games played at Little Caesars Arena, along with the salaries of employees with the Pistons and Palace Sports & Entertainment.
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