Ypsilanti, December 18, 2025
The Ypsilanti City Council has approved plans to redevelop the contaminated 38-acre Water Street area, aiming for a vibrant mixed-use development. Environmental cleanup is underway, addressing historical contamination, and a community meeting is set for January 2026 to gather public input. The city plans to attract developers through a Request for Qualifications by August 2026, emphasizing community collaboration and integration with the neighboring areas.
Ypsilanti City Council Approves Development for Water Street Area
Significant steps taken toward redeveloping 38-acre site contaminated by industrial use.
Ypsilanti, Michigan – The Ypsilanti City Council has officially approved plans to redevelop the 38-acre Water Street area along East Michigan Avenue and the picturesque Huron River. This positive development comes on the heels of near-completion of environmental cleanup efforts, which have successfully addressed contamination stemming from lead and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) related to the site’s industrial history. With an eye toward revitalization, the city is setting the stage for further growth by preparing to release a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) in August 2026 to attract potential developers. A community participation meeting is already slated for January 21, 2026, to gather valuable public input on the redevelopment plans.
Background
The Water Street Redevelopment Area is marked by a legacy of industrial use, resulting in extensive contamination that hampered previous redevelopment initiatives. A report from environmental consultants in 2023 highlighted severe contamination levels, prompting the current remediation efforts aimed at transforming the site into a vibrant area that integrates seamlessly with the historic Downtown and Depot Town neighborhoods. By emphasizing community input and collaboration, the city has brought together consultants and staff to guide the redevelopment process.
Next Steps
As the environmental cleanup nears its completion, city officials plan to release the RFQ in August 2026, inviting interested developers to explore the site for potential investment. This structured approach ensures that an ad hoc committee will engage with prospective firms and present a well-rounded recommendation to the council in the fall of 2026. Aligning redevelopment efforts with community needs underscores a commitment to foster local economic growth and resilience.
Community Engagement
The significance of community involvement cannot be overstated, which is why the city will host a community participation meeting on January 21, 2026. This event aims to facilitate discussions about the redevelopment plans and gather insights from residents. As part of a broader strategy, these focus group sessions are essential for empowering the community to have a say in shaping the future of the Water Street area, emphasizing the collaborative spirit central to local progress.
Conclusion
The Ypsilanti City Council’s recent approval of the redevelopment plans represents a pivotal milestone in breathing new life into the Water Street area. With remediation efforts well underway, the city is poised to transform this 38-acre site into a lively mixed-use development, enhancing community vibrancy and contributing meaningfully to Ypsilanti’s economic growth. As this project takes shape, local residents should stay engaged and supportive, as their input will be crucial in realizing a vision for the future that benefits everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Water Street Redevelopment Area?
The Water Street Redevelopment Area is a 38-acre site along East Michigan Avenue and the Huron River in Ypsilanti, Michigan. It has a history of industrial use, leading to significant contamination.
What contamination was present on the site?
The site was contaminated with lead and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), substances associated with its industrial past.
What is the city’s plan for the site?
The city plans to redevelop the site into a mixed-use area that complements the historic Downtown and Depot Town neighborhoods. This includes releasing a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) in August 2026 to attract developers.
When is the community participation meeting?
A community participation meeting is scheduled for January 21, 2026, to gather public input on the redevelopment plans.
How can residents get involved?
Residents can participate in the community participation meeting and other focus group sessions to provide input on the redevelopment plans.
Key Features of the Water Street Redevelopment Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Site Area | 38-acre site along East Michigan Avenue and the Huron River in Ypsilanti, Michigan. |
| Contamination | Lead and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from industrial use. |
| Redevelopment Plan | Transform into a mixed-use area complementing Downtown and Depot Town neighborhoods. |
| RFQ Release | Scheduled for August 2026 to attract developers. |
| Community Meeting | Scheduled for January 21, 2026, to gather public input. |
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