$2.34M in Tax Credits Approved for UM-Dearborn Housing Project

student housing is another step closer to reality after the Michigan Economic Growth Authority on Tuesday approved $2.34 million in tax credits for the project.

According to the Detroit Free Press, the MEGA board said the project could generate $47 million in new investments and create up to 20 permanent full-time jobs.

The project—a brownfield redevelopment plan being constructed in place of vacant Ford Motor Co. offices on Town Center Drive—is expected to be constructed in two phases and will include several dorms, as well as a student union to be used for activities, eateries and more. Details on the plans were discussed at before Dearborn City Council.

The estimated $44-million project is also expected to create construction job opportunities starting as early as this fall, as well as 55 permanent jobs upon completion of the project.

State Rep. George Darany (D-Dearborn) applauded the project.

"Establishing more student residency in Dearborn will help bring additional economic activity to our city," Darany said. "Creating local jobs and increasing economic development in our community is one of the most important things we can do, and this project will help us make substantial progress toward that goal. We are showing that we are committed to doing whatever it takes to improve our economy and continue to make Dearborn a great place to live."

The university, for its part, has stayed relatively quiet on the status of the project. Representatives claim they are reluctant to celebrate until student housing is a certainty.

"UM-Dearborn remains committed to providing students with campus housing options," Ken Kettenbeil, marketing director, told Dearborn Patch in July. "There are many options currently being explored that will best serve the campus and our students. At this time, the University does not have any signed agreement or final decisions regarding housing."