Embark with me on an incredible journey as we transform dreams into reality!

Livonia is ready to shine with a dynamic four-step plan that brings anticipation and positive change to our beloved town. No more kicking the can down the road; Livonia is reclaiming its glory days with the unwavering support of our residents and visionary leadership that drives this incredible transformation.

Livonia has always been a trendsetter—building a YMCA, acquiring city-wide parkland, establishing a Library, and constructing a Recreation Center. Our neighbors once aspired to follow in our footsteps, and now, we're set to inspire once again.

Imagine a time when Livonia boasted 36 bustling neighborhood centers. Each square mile had a park, multiple churches, and a shopping plaza. Rosedale was the most densely populated area with 10,000 residents, and Sheldon Center was proudly marketed as our downtown shopping destination with pictures of the annual carnival at Plymouth and Farmington. Our Independence Day parade illuminated Plymouth Road with vibrant celebration.

Times have changed, and so have our community needs. The parks, the library, and the recreation center have evolved to meet these needs. It's time to move on and to attract new, young families. The long-discussed city center project is moving from “let's do it” to a definitive “we are doing it.”

Livonia is set to embrace the future with confidence and vigor. Starting today and for the next three Mondays, Musings will explore a different aspect of this incredible journey; sharing details, planning documents, actual draft proposals, and information for you, the reader of Musings, to have at your fingertips so that you can be ready to engage and take ownership.

Step into Livonia’s Vision: Transforming our City Center

into a Walkable, Thriving Community Hub

Creating a walkable, livable City Center district transforms a town, offering numerous benefits that resonate deeply with residents and visitors alike. Picture Livonia’s vision, where urban planning meets community spirit, resulting in a district that’s not just about buildings and streets but about people and experiences.

A walkable city center promotes an active lifestyle, encouraging residents to ditch their cars and embrace walking or cycling. Imagine tree-lined streets and wide sidewalks that invite people to stroll, jog, or ride bikes. This shift to more physical activity can lead to improved public health, reducing rates of obesity and heart disease, and fostering a healthier, happier community.

Experience the Magic: Livonia’s New Festival Avenue Bursting with Shops, Green Spaces, and Family Fun!

Renderings showcase a Fesitval Avenue coming in off Farmington Road with retail shops aligning both sides of the tree-lined streets leading in one direction--toward a green space filled with entertainment, families gathering, a park-like setting--a city center area not at all unlike Kellogg Park in Plymouth City.

Social interactions create a sense of belonging

But it’s not just about physical health. A pedestrian-friendly city center fosters social interactions, turning streets into lively public spaces where neighbors meet, friends catch up, and strangers become acquaintances. It brings a sense of belonging, reducing the isolation associated with car-dependent suburbs. Local parks and plazas become the heart of social life, hosting festivals, and community events that strengthen the fabric of the community.

New residents establish support for hometown businesses

From an economic standpoint, walkable districts are a boon to local businesses. When people are out walking, they’re more likely to shop locally, supporting small businesses and keeping money within the community. A vibrant city center attracts more of our neighboring community residents further boosting the economy. Restaurants, cafes, boutiques, and artisanal shops thrive in such environments, creating jobs and promoting entrepreneurship.

Green spaces and tree-lined streets provide environmental benefits

Environmental benefits are substantial, too. Green spaces, street trees, and urban gardens within the district beautify the area and help combat urban heat island effects, making the city center more comfortable during hot summers.

A liveable downtown creates accessibility and inclusivity making all feel welcome

Furthermore, a livable city center emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity. Well-designed public spaces are accessible to people of all ages and abilities, ensuring that everyone, from young families with strollers to seniors with mobility aids, can navigate the area safely and comfortably. It creates an inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated and everyone feels welcome.

Citizen input create a sense of engagement and ownership

In the case of Livonia, the redevelopment of Five Mile and Farmington exemplifies this vision. With the new Livonia Senior Wellness Center leading the charge, the city is taking bold steps to create a city center that embodies these principles. By integrating community feedback into the planning process, Livonia ensures that its city center development aligns with the needs and desires of its residents, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the community.

As Livonia moves forward with this ambitious project, the benefits of a walkable, livable city center will become increasingly evident, transforming our hometown into a place where health, happiness, and prosperity are within everyone’s reach. So, get ready, Livonia—exciting times are ahead!

Livonia showcases how creativity will improve quality of life

Heads are turning across the region as our hometown celebrates

Livonia 75 with major plans to rebuild Five and Farmington

Livonia moves forward to the implementation of Vision 21

Vision 21 is indeed an exciting initiative for Livonia, and it's fantastic to see our hometown dreams taking shape. 

Livonia's ambitious Vision 21 plan is more than just a blueprint for urban development; it’s a testament to the city’s commitment to turning dreams into reality. This vision, deeply rooted in community input and extensive planning, is now moving from conceptual stages to tangible progress, promising to reshape the city’s landscape and enhance the quality of life for all its residents.

Over the past several years, Livonia has actively sought the voices of its community. Numerous surveys, public meetings, and feedback sessions have ensured that every step of the Vision 21 plan aligns with the aspirations and needs of the people who call Livonia home. Studies for the Master Plan for Greenmead, public opinion on the Bennett Library, and the development of Vision 21 itself were all driven by a desire to listen and respond to residents’ ideas and concerns.

The Senior Wellness Center will become a reality without increasing Livonia taxes thanks to our leaders in Washington, Lansing and Wayne County!

$3,000,000

earmarked with support from then Livonia Congresswoman Haley Stevens, pictured here with Mayor Maureen Brosnan, Councilman Brandon McCullough, and Parks Superintendent Ted Davis.

$4,500,000

earmarked with the support of our Lansing delegation here with Mayor Brosnan, Representatives Pohutsky, Young & Koleszar and Senators Polehanki and Cavanagh

$8,000,000

earmarked with support of our County Commissioners Terry Marecki and Glenn Anderson, here with the City Team--Dave Varga, Ted Davis, Mark Taormina, County Team--Hassan Sheikh, Assad Turfe, Dave Schreiber.

An additional $1.25 million was earmarked with the support

of our current Congresswoman, Rashida Tlaib.

All of this teamwork helped the city reach its monetary goal of having funding on hand to start and finish the Wellness Center.

With a strong foundation of community support, Mayor Maureen Brosnan is now guiding Livonia from planning to action. The redevelopment of Five Mile and Farmington marks the beginning of this transformative journey. The construction of the new Livonia Senior Wellness Center is already underway as this aerial photograph shows, serving as a catalyst for Vision 21. This center, funded through a combination of county, state, and federal grants along with the city's capital improvement funds, is a shining example of how strategic investment can spur economic growth and community development without increasing taxes or requiring a dedicated project millage.

As Livonia embarks on the various phases of Vision 21, each step brings the city closer to a future where economic vitality, environmental sustainability, and community well-being coexist harmoniously. Phase One, set to be completed in 2025, includes the opening of the Wellness Center, a facility that promises to enhance the health and wellness of Livonia's aging population.

Phase Two: Livonia’s Next Big Leap: Modern City Hall Set to Rise in 2026,

Fully Funded for Community Growth!

In 2026, Phase Two will see the construction of a new City Hall, replacing the outdated structure with a modern facility that better serves the needs of the residents and our city’s administration.

This project is fully funded through the city's capital improvement fund, ensuring that it moves forward without placing additional financial burdens on the community.

Phase Three: Elevating Livonia’s Safety: A New Police Station and Fire Station Upgrades Set for 2028, With Citizen Approval, Fully Funded for Excellence!

Phase Three, scheduled for 2028, involves the construction of a new police station and renovations to all fire stations to be financed through a millage election emphasizing the city's commitment to maintaining high standards of public safety. Additionally, think a central gathering area and bikeable/walkable streets.

Phase Four: Revitalizing Livonia: With public/private partnership along with private development look for New Housing, Shops, and Dining Set

to Transform Five Mile & Farmington into a Thriving Hub

Finally, Phase Four will usher in new multi-family residential units, retail spaces, and restaurants, transforming the southeast corner of Five Mile and Farmington Roads into a bustling hub of activity.

This public/private partnership and private development will not only provide new housing options but will also boost the local economy by attracting businesses and creating jobs.

Livonia's Vision 21 is more than just a plan; it’s a manifestation of the city’s dedication to its residents and their future. By integrating community input at every stage, Livonia ensures that its development is reflective of the people’s will and works towards building a city that is vibrant, inclusive, and resilient. As Livonia moves forward with this visionary plan, the city is poised to become a model of modern urban living, where progress and community go hand in hand.

Get ready, Livonia—exciting times are ahead! We stand at the brink of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to transform a blank canvas into a thriving masterpiece. As Five Mile and Farmington come to life, Livonia is poised to once again become a trendsetter, inspiring neighboring communities with our bold vision and unwavering commitment. The future is bright, and together, we will paint a picture of progress, prosperity, and unparalleled community spirit.

Let's seize this moment and make history!

Mail Address

19514 Bainbridge 48152

E-mail address

rwilliamjoyner@gmail.com

Cell address

734-674-5871

Archive--Bill Joyner's FridayMusings