Here are a few of the stories we're reading this week:
City sues over Census undercount
The City of Detroit is suing the U.S. Census Bureau over undercounting the city's population by 7,000, especially Black and brown residents. The city is missing out on substantial federal funding due to this.
“The Census Bureau used a formula to estimate Detroit’s population that showed the city losing more than 7,000 residents from just one year prior,” said Mayor Mike Duggan Tuesday during a press conference at Detroit Police Headquarters. “Any formula claiming the city is still losing population defies facts and common sense, given the thousands of newly constructed and renovated housing units in the city, as well as increases in residential utility connections. Activity like this does not happen when more people are leaving the city than moving in.”
What to do with the CPA Building?
When Ford announced the redevelopment of Michigan Central Station, there was hope that some of the other buildings around or near it would be rehabbed as well. The CPA Building sits across Michigan Avenue, still vacant after all these years. The owner recently put an RFP out for the property, due February 1. It is only open to vehicle companies, and the owner says they could do much more than just office space. Let's hope something actually happens this time around. Crain's Detroit Business
Homework House in Avalon Village
Shamayim "Mama Shu" Harris has been working on transforming a city block in Highland Park into a community space called Avalon Village. After six years, one of the main parts of the village is now open. The Homework House has books, games, and musical instruments for young people. Next month, it will also include free meals and tutors. Highland Park has experienced significant hardships; in 2015, the only high school shut down and students must go elsewhere for education. Detroit Free Press
