Housing Development in Detroit’s West Village Faces Community Opposition
A contentious affordable housing development near Detroit’s West Village neighborhood is moving forward despite strong objections from local residents. After over 10 hours of deliberation and public comment spread across two meetings, the city’s Board of Zoning Appeals conditionally approved the four-story, 48-unit housing development at 7737 Kercheval on March 30th. The project will also include ground-level commercial space.
Community Concerns and Objections
The board dismissed a formal objection from Toyia Watts, president of the Charlevoix Village Association. Watts and other residents expressed concerns about the development utilizing a portion of the Butzel Family Recreation Center’s parking lot and outdoor park space. “We don’t need to be squeezed in,” Watts stated, emphasizing the impact on community access to recreational areas.
Another resident, Teresa Davis, voiced a desire for the project to be located elsewhere, while others worried about increased traffic congestion on Kercheval Avenue. A significant concern revolved around the true affordability of the units, with some fearing it would contribute to “gentrification” in the neighborhood.
Resident Taura Brown highlighted the issue of affordability, stating that rents labeled as “affordable” can still be inaccessible to many. “Affordable housing means if the highest rent is $4,000 or $5,000, your affordable rent is only $2,000 or $3,000 — that is not affordable,” she explained during a public hearing.
Developer’s Response and Project Details
Zach Kilgore, of Arrive Community Development, the nonprofit firm behind the project, assured the community that lost park space and parking spots would be fully replaced. He emphasized that all 48 units would be offered at below-market rents under a 45-year deed restriction, catering to individuals earning between 30% and 70% of the area median income, with rents starting around $500 per month. Furthermore, the building’s five commercial spaces will also be offered at below-market rates to support local Detroit businesses.
Kilgore acknowledged the community’s distrust, stating, “I know what this is really about is trust — and I get it. There have been so many developers that haven’t kept their promises.” He differentiated his project from others, asserting its genuine commitment to affordability.
Board Approval and Future Steps
The Board of Appeals approved the project with two conditions: modifications to preserve parking off Kercheval and future community engagement meetings held at the Butzel center. Opponents, however, have vowed to appeal the decision, with the next step likely being Wayne County Circuit Court.
Project Timeline and Funding
This housing development marks the first project for Kilgore’s Arrive Community Development, selected from four proposals by Detroit officials. Kilgore is co-developing the project with Ethos Development Partners, with a projected groundbreaking in late 2027 or early 2028, followed by an estimated 18-month construction period. The project will utilize the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program.
Community Support
The project also has its supporters, including Pastor Leon Stevenson of Mack Avenue Community Church, who emphasized the critical need for affordable housing in the area. “It’s good that the city is doing something right,” he said. “They are trying to use their land to help people who need housing.”
Learn more about affordable housing initiatives: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
