North End Neighborhood Framework
The North End of Detroit is a diverse and historic neighborhood with strong community and arts organizations, varied housing typology distinct from other neighborhoods, and plentiful open space left behind from recent and historic demolitions. JIMA, working with SmithGroup, developed an open space strategy for the neighborhood plan to be utilized and implemented by the City of Detroit. This planning process took over 12 months to complete, which included robust community engagement, GIS and spatial data analysis, and conceptual design for strategic locations. JIMA was responsible for research and design related to open space and cultural place making.
Client
City of Detroit
Location
Detroit, Michigan
Year
2022 - 2023
JIMA Studio’s existing conditions analysis located both formal and community parks that contribute to the area’s overall open space network.
Team
Ujijji Williams | Shandra Bernath-Plaisted
Location
Detroit, Michigan
Credits
Lead Planner: SmithGroup
Economic Development: Ideas & Action
Community Engagement: Detroit Collaborative Design Center
Team Support: Know Allegiance Nation
JIMA Studio defined several typologies of site activation for vacant lots within the North End that reflected the values and priorities of residents in the neighborhood. Each offered an opportunity to incrementally occupy vacant land and share stewardship amongst willing groups in the area.
The community engagement process focused on meeting neighbors where they were, which included local parks, churches and community based headquarters. The JIMA Studio team focused on how cultural heritage and placemaking could work together in the plan.
The JIMA Studio team also explored how public infrastructure could communicate both safety and cultural relevance. The team evaluated opportunities for the Detroit DDOT bus shelter system to incorporate imagery of the neighborhood’s past, present, and future, while being responsive to bus riders who depend on the public system to get around the city.
