The "Downtown" is targeted for the 24 Mile and Van Dyke area and could take shape over the next five years, says Skip Maccarone, the township supervisor. Neighboring Macomb Township and nearby Warren are also working on various "Downtown" creation plans.

The Shelby Center development will encompass all four corners of the intersection and will feature two- and three-level condominiums, retail locations, walking paths and parking garages. The idea, Maccarone says, is to create a pedestrian-friendly environment.

Planning firm Birchler Arroyo Associates of Lathrup Village has been working with the township's planning commission to come up with a design concept. And the planning commission has approved plans by Clinton Township developer Guy Rizzo of GTR Builders to build a health club, up to 116 condominiums and a CVS Pharmacy on eight acres on the northwest corner of the intersection.

Rizzo owns property on all but the northeast quadrant, Maccarone says. Plans from other developers for the northeast corner are under review by the Planning Commission, he says.

One proposal for the northeast corner, called Crystal Plaza, would include 7,800 sf of retail space. Another, Studio Hill, would comprise about 24 condominium units on 1.8 acres with 15,000 sf of retail space. A third proposal, called Providence Park, would include retail space along 24 Mile and attached and detached condominiums.

Township officials have created new zoning for the prospective development. "It allows denser residential construction, more open space, attention to walkways, paths and allows height of buildings to go up a little bit more," Maccarone says.

Instant Insights /

Suburbs All Want a Downtown of Their Own

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