Author(s): Center for Community Progress
Vacant lots make up the majority—over 75 percent—of public vacant property inventories across the country, and in Michigan.
Without intervention, hundreds of thousands of lots across the state would be left in limbo, not adding value to their neighborhoods and actively detracting from residents’ quality of life. Many Michigan communities from Marquette to Muskegon and from Detroit to Kalamazoo recognize the incredible opportunity presented by vacant land and are actively repurposing lots to improve their neighborhoods. Land is one of our greatest assets, and most finite resources. Stewardship of vacant land can address some of our most pressing challenges:
Vacant land stewardship is the comprehensive repurposing and maintenance of vacant lots in service to community needs, priorities, and goals. Lots can become everything from well-maintained side yards to vegetable farms to pollinator habitats to solar fields. As communities move towards stewardship, they reap direct benefits for residents. Neighborhoods with repurposed and maintained lots realize an increase in property values, a reduction in crime, deepened resident engagement, and higher quality of life for residents.
Topic(s): Local Analysis, Vacant Land Stewardship
Published: November 2022
Geography: Michigan
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