After a decade, the blighted corner at Seven Mile and Farmington has been transformed, enhancing the quality of northwest Livonia.
The Livonia City Council, on Monday night, unanimously approved the construction of a 70,000-square-foot Meijer Grocery Store and 102 townhouses. Council President Brandon McCullough stated, "While not a perfect plan, it is a really good plan."
Initially, the Schostak Brothers' proposal met with confusion, community opposition, and Council objections, casting doubt on the benefits it would bring to a long-vacant lot. However, after undergoing the planning process, public hearings, and council revisions, the proposal was unanimously approved.
McCullough acknowledged the Council's efforts in enhancing the original plan, including unique features to improve the area. He expressed gratitude towards Councilwoman Carrie Budzinski for ensuring a $30,000 art budget for outdoor art at the site.
Furthermore, the Council secured an agreement for GPS tracking on grocery carts to prevent them from leaving the property and for the creation of walkable green spaces.
McCullough concluded, "With this new plan, I anticipate economic growth and business prosperity in that part of the community. We did not settle for the initial proposal and, after collaborating with Schostak, we have achieved a win-win for the community."
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