By STEVE NEAVLING
FREE PRESS STAFF WRITER

Some called them crazy.

But as outsiders declared Detroit all but dead, a passionate network of nonprofits, local developers, small-business owners, universities and hospitals poured cash and sweat into culturally rich areas that are emerging stronger and more popular than before the brutal economic downturn.

Hotels, theaters, art galleries, charter schools, condos and dozens of restaurants have opened, primarily in abandoned buildings, in the past year or are to open this year in the Midtown, New Center and Woodbridge neighborhoods.
"We are onto something great in this city," Detroit artist and muralist Jennifer Quigley said. "People who want art and culture are gravitating here."

The revitalization is being driven by generous grants, new state tax credits and more investor confidence in the city's ability to attract young professionals, art enthusiasts and others, said Sue Mosey, president of the University Cultural Center Association, a nonprofit community group based in Midtown.

At least seven major condo and apartment projects -- most in ornate, restored historic buildings -- are planned to begin this year to meet an increasing demand for housing.


Vibrant Detroit enclaves, investment attract newcomers to city

Their friends and family gasped at the news.

You're moving to Detroit? Are you crazy?

A year ago, Blake Vanier and Rachel Perschetz, both 29, vacationed in the Motor City out of curiosity. Instead of finding the dangerous wasteland often depicted on TV and in the national media, the best friends discovered a city with friendly people, eclectic hangouts and great potential.

Enamored by the city, Vanier, who works in finance, moved from New York City to a loft in Midtown near Wayne State University in mid-October with a new job. A few weeks later, Perschetz joined him from Washington, D.C., to continue working as a real estate consultant.

They are considering opening a bar or restaurant in Midtown in the near future.
"In New York or D.C., you feel insignificant," Perschetz said, sipping a beer at a bar near her loft. "But here, we bump into nice people. It's a very uncomplicated existence."


Community collaboration

Powerhouse institutions -- WSU, the Henry Ford Health System, the Detroit Medical Center and the College for Creative Studies -- are joining forces and building schools, condos and commercial space for restaurants, coffeehouses and specialty shops.

Last year, for example, foundations spent $125 million to $250 million to spur development, more than anyone can remember.



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