Plans to redevelop the iconic Renaissance Center in Detroit passed a major hurdle on Tuesday night. Members of a Neighborhood Advisory Council voted 8-1 to move forward with the $2.2 billion redevelopment. In a more than 2-hour-long fiery meeting, dozens of delegates, including residents and community organizations, voiced both opposition and support for the project. Bedrock and GM have proposed a sweeping refresh to about 18 acres of land, which they’ve stated will require the demolition of the two southernmost towers. Criticism of the redevelopment focused on financial transparency, whether the towers needed to be demolished, and a potential reliance on taxpayers to provide tax incentives. Casting the lone vote against, Teron Haynes, a member of the council, said the agreement as written doesn’t represent the “desires of Detroiters.” “I believe the developer when they said this was the only path forward because it was the only option they were going to give us. Make no mistake, Detroiters were threatened. You either give me half a billion, or I will make your city a monument to blight,” said Haynes. The redevelopment, which would include a hotel, a year-round entertainment space, and housing, is not a done deal as it will need approval from Detroit City Council. As part of an agreement, the deal would include $45 million in community benefits and investments in small businesses and affordable housing. Tuesday’s meeting marked the end of a series of consultations with the public to discuss their desires for the space. Loud comments of disapproval with the decision rang out as members of the council voted in favour. “I respect the opinions of the Detroiters who spoke out here today about this agreement. I think that you guys have to understand that we are Detroiters, too, and the same way you think you’re doing what’s best for the city through this process, we do too. We just have differences of opinions,” said Jamaine Dickens, the chair of the council. Media organizations in Detroit have reported a report to city council could be received before the end of November
