An affordable housing development in North Corktown took another step forward today. The Preserve on Ash was awarded $750,000 from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) for brownfield site remediation.
The development will bring about 100 mixed-income apartments and commercial space over six new buildings to the neighborhood. It's located on three acres of a vacant lot at 15th and Ash Streets. The EGLE grant covers "transport and disposal of contaminated soil, and the installation of a vapor mitigation system in the new buildings."
The Preserve on Ash was part of an announcement for Low Income Housing Tax Credits over seven developments in the city two years ago. It was also part of the Choice Neighborhoods grant for affordable housing in Corktown received in 2021. The development is part of the city's Greater Corktown Plan.
According to a press release from EGLE, the site was once home to a gas station, auto service center, dry cleaner, and manufacturing.
“The city of Detroit greatly appreciates the partnership with EGLE in providing $750,000 in cleanup funding for the Preserve on Ash redevelopment project,” said David Bell, director of Detroit’s Buildings, Safety Engineering, and Environmental Department. “This funding will be used to prevent exposure to hazardous substances and address environmental conditions for a much-needed affordable housing and commercial space.”
The development is led by Community Builders. After all the funding is in place, it's expected to break ground in the spring and be completed in 2025.
