Mixed-Use Development Breaks Ground on East Warren

Officials celebrate the groundbreaking of The Ribbon. Image courtesy of the city of Detroit

Principal developer of The Ribbon, Edward Carrington. Image courtesy of the city of Detroit

It was a joyous occasion as I stood shoulder to shoulder with Eddy Carrington of Flux City Development, Mayor Duggan, funders, community leaders, and neighbors to celebrate the momentous groundbreaking ceremony of "The Ribbon." This remarkable event marked a significant milestone in developing a new mixed-use project in East English Village!

This dynamic development will provide 18 affordable housing units on E. Warren Ave, answering the pressing need for affordable housing options within our beloved community. We have not seen this kind of development in decades; and never has a project like this been led by a local Black developer. Detroiters do development differently, as evidenced by the deep affordability in a market of rising rental rates and property values.

I have lived two blocks from this location for 18 years, and I can remember so many years when this was a blighted corridor, and we were doing everything we could to salvage properties.

We probably thought it was all for naught, but we're here today. We all came together collectively and intentionally to ensure we revitalize our neighborhood commercial corridors. I can't wait for the completion of the project, and I look forward to Gajiza Dumplings opening and providing a muchneeded sit-down restaurant in the community.

Our unwavering commitment to affordability ensures that "The Ribbon" will provide residents with comfortable homes while ensuring long-term financial sustainability. Moreover, this transformative project includes first-floor retail spaces, fostering economic growth and creating opportunities for community engagement.

The support "The Ribbon" received from the Strategic Neighborhood Fund (SNF) and the Detroit Housing for the Future Fund (DHFF) exemplifies our collective dedication to uplifting communities and crafting enduring solutions for affordable housing that cater to the diverse needs of Detroit residents. These partnerships signify a shared vision for fostering inclusive neighborhoods and driving sustainable development. I'd be remiss if I didn't take a moment to give a special THANK YOU to Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan; without their support the E. Warren resurgence might be light years away.