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Detroit’s Higginbotham School to be Redeveloped

The Higginbotham School, a historical landmark in Detroit, is being redeveloped into affordable housing.

News Summary

In a significant move for Detroit’s Eight Mile-Wyoming area, city officials plan to transform the historic William E. Higginbotham School into a hub for affordable housing and community activities. This $36.4 million redevelopment aims to address the urgent need for affordable housing by creating 100 units for residents earning 30% to 80% of the median income. This initiative not only revives a landmark but also sustains the community’s spirit and pride, promising a brighter future ahead.

Detroit’s Historic Higginbotham School Set for Transformation

In a move that promises to breathe new life into the Eight Mile-Wyoming area of Detroit, city officials are gearing up to convert the iconic William E. Higginbotham School into a vibrant hub for affordable housing and community activities. After years of sitting vacant, this historic school building, which opened its doors back in 1926, is about to embark on an exciting redevelopment journey, costing around $36.4 million.

A Rich History Rediscovered

The Higginbotham School was not only a place of education for over eight decades but also a cornerstone of the community, having served as an all-Black elementary school. With its rich history, the school stands as a testament to the resilience and strength of the local population, many of whom faced discriminatory housing practices. Over the years, this area has fought against overcrowding in schools, making the revival of such an educational institution all the more significant.

Affordable Living for Many

The redevelopment project is set to create 100 affordable housing units, which will cater to residents earning anywhere from 30% to 80% of the neighborhood’s median household income. With construction slated to begin next month, the completed housing units will be available by early 2026. To help fund this project, officials secured $14.1 million in Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and $8.4 million from the American Rescue Plan Act.

Community Faces New Opportunities

Local community leaders see this transformation as a golden opportunity for revitalization. Through this project, they aim to not only provide housing but also foster a sense of pride in the community. The architectural beauty of the Higginbotham School, with its Mediterranean Revival-style design and stunning Spanish tile roof, adds a charming touch to the area, promising a lovely space that residents can be proud of.

Support for Long-term Residents

The initiative has gained support from those who have long believed in the potential of their neighborhood. This redevelopment is a critical step in addressing the acute need for affordable housing within Detroit. The city has been facing an ongoing challenge with blight and vacancy, but through projects like this, hope and community spirit are being rekindled.

Broader Impact on the City

It is not just the Higginbotham School that is undergoing transformation. Other sectors of the city are also looking to convert unused school buildings into supportive housing. The St. Mary of Redford Parish is also engaging in similar endeavors, creating better housing solutions for low-income residents. In fact, partnerships with other local organizations, such as St. Matthew Parish and Transfiguration, illustrate a growing trend of repurposing vacant schools within the Archdiocese of Detroit.

Preserving Educational and Historical Legacies

Projects like these not only help those in immediate need of housing but also honor the educational and historical legacies of the community. The transformation of former schools into inclusive environments reflects a deeper commitment to support underprivileged populations throughout Detroit.

Looking Toward a Better Future

In a city with a pressing need for housing solutions, the redevelopment of the Higginbotham School stands out as a promising journey of change. This project is more than just a construction effort; it symbolizes the hope of revitalization, making way for a brighter future for long-time residents and new community members alike.