In 2009, DDP worked in concert with the DEGC and Invest Detroit to facilitate the completion of a Downtown Detroit West District Reinvestment Strategy, which resulted in a physical and economic development agenda for the district, and specifically the Capitol Park Development Initiative. This strategy serves to link investment projects such as the Westin Book Cadillac Hotel and Residences and Washington Boulevard improvements and Capitol Park. It will support existing properties while attracting additional investment. The strategy identified potential for 1,000 new housing units and new commercial space. This development, along with intended first floor retail and entertainment venues, will provide for a sustainable, vibrant and walkable neighborhood in the West District / Capitol Park area. DDP participated in concert with the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, the State Land Bank, Invest Detroit, and the DEGC for the acquisition of three catalytic properties surrounding Capitol Park (1145 Griswold, 1212 Griswold and the Farwell Building) as part of the initial implementation of this strategy.
In 2010, DDP in partnership with Invest Detroit and the DEGC engaged a nationally recognized retail consulting firm to perform general programming and mapping of retail. This resulted in a parcel-specific Downtown Retail Strategy focused specifically on Capitol Park and the connector streets to and including Woodward Avenue. The report emphasized the importance of linking retail for Capitol Park to Woodward Avenue to provide the best opportunity to leverage the economic impact of M-1 Rail, the Creative Corridor, Live Downtown and other significant initiatives and major employers creating a critical mass. The West District / Capitol Park strategy calls for major improvements to the Capitol Park District through renovations, new construction, and new initiatives. Timing for the implementation of the retail plan is critical to advance the development of the purchased properties and ensure the success of the targeted areas.
