community development

There was a time when many thought of libraries as simplay a place to check out books and to study quietly. No more. While you can still do both of those things, libraries have become much more. They are a center of community engagement and have programs designed to inspire a love of lifelong learning. WEMU's David Fair talked with Ypsilanti District Library director Lisa Hoenig about its growing role in the community.

The volunteers working to turn the old Federal Screw Works in Chelsea into a city park are getting more help from the state. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

On November 4, voters will decide between two candidates running to replace incumbent Mayor Jane Pacheco, who is not seeking reelection. Kate Henson currently serves on the City Council and points to her background in civic leadership and community engagement as qualities that will serve her well as mayor. WEMU’s Caroline MacGregor talked to Henson about her run against opponent Julianne Chard.

Experts on artificial intelligence are coming to Washtenaw Community College to discuss the future impact of the technology. WEMU’s Ana Longoria reports.

The City of Saline is getting a $1.5 million matching grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation to help pay for the development of a downtown public square. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

The City of Dexter has made some changes to its Master Plan by adopting a Housing Readiness Amendment. The move is designed to increase the city’s housing stock. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

The Ypsilanti City Council approved plans to build a new community center near Depot Town. WEMU’s Ana Longoria reports.

If the City Council gives its blessing tonight, a long vacant Ypsilanti church is a step closer to being converted into a Community Learning and Resource Center. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

The Ypsilanti Downtown Development Authority's "Explore Ypsi" Initiative finished its third year this holiday season. It is a program in partnership with EMU intended to help new students and faculty get off campus to explore Ypsilanti and get connected with local business owners. For this week’s “On the Ground Ypsi,” Concentrate Media’s Rylee Barnsdale is joined by Ypsilanti DDA executive director Elize Jekabson to explain how the program works, how it has evolved in its third year and what the future may hold.

Washtenaw County officials recently finalized the purchase of the 26-acre plot of land the former Cheney Elementary School sat on with the intent to build a state-of-the-art community and recreation center in the school's place, leading some Ypsilanti residents wondering how this new initiative will uphold the legacy of Willow Run Schools, as well as the school's namesake. Concentrate Media's Rylee Barnsdale discusses everything that led to this project becoming a reality with Ypsilanti Community Schools trustee Jeanice Townsend.