Foundations, city at brink of plan to shrink Detroit

[MotownSpartan]

"In four to six months, Detroit could have the broad-brush outlines of a land use plan that encompasses the principles of shrinking the city by consolidating investment in key neighborhoods — if Detroit Mayor Dave Bing accepts an offer from a metro Detroit foundation to fund the creation of such a plan."
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http://www.crainsdetroit.com/article...301249965/1069

“There is such a high level of interest in Washington about how to work with Detroit . . . I strongly believe that in the next two to four months we will figure out a way to have a much elevated conversation with the city of Detroit and the federal government.” - Rip Rapson, President of Kresge Foundation.

[Stosh]

"In four to six months, Detroit could have the broad-brush outlines of a land use plan that encompasses the principles of shrinking the city by consolidating investment in key neighborhoods — if Detroit Mayor Dave Bing accepts an offer from a metro Detroit foundation to fund the creation of such a plan."
-
http://www.crainsdetroit.com/article...301249965/1069

“There is such a high level of interest in Washington about how to work with Detroit . . . I strongly believe that in the next two to four months we will figure out a way to have a much elevated conversation with the city of Detroit and the federal government.� - Rip Rapson, President of Kresge Foundation.

I'd have to think that this move is inevitable. It's really nice of the Kresge Foundation to make that offer. They should try and work that deal and something for the rest of the region as well. Maybe a common dialog in terms of true regional planning.

Maybe they can get something done to right size the water department then. The rate increases are abominal. And due to less water consumption. If they consolidate Detroit, perhaps maintenance on vast stretches of water line can be eliminated. With any shred of fairness, maybe then the DWD can cut their rates?