The statewide CEO group Business Leaders for Michigan has launched a project to develop strategies that the state can use to aid urban redevelopment.
The Urban Strategies Initiative is being conducted by the Lansing public-policy think tank Public Sector Consultants Inc. and the Washington-based Brookings Institution, in collaboration with Gov. Rick Snyder’s administration, Business Leaders said today.
“We are excited to work with the Brookings Institution on this project to identify a number of innovative and creative approaches the state can take to help local communities redevelop their urban areas,” Business Leaders President and CEO Doug Rothwell said in a news release.
He said his group’s members “recognize the importance of vibrant cities to growing the state’s economy,” as evidenced by their inclusion of that objective in the group’s broad economic revitalization plan for Michigan.
The project includes:
• Reviewing data for Michigan’s metropolitan statistical areas and comparing with regions nationally.
• Reviewing best practices around the country.
• Assessing key existing Michigan and federal urban policies and programs, as well as philanthropic priorities, and looking at how they align with goals and strategies of Michigan metropolitan leaders, foundations and others.
• Recommending changes to state and federal policy.
The project is expected to be completed by year end.
By Amy Lane, Crain’s Detroit
