Title
Resolution to Vacate a Portion of the South University Avenue Public Right-of-Way (525 S. State St.) (CPC Recommendation: Approval – 8 Yeas, 0 Nays; 8 Votes Required)
Memorandum
The University of Michigan has initiated a petition to vacate a 26.5 foot-wide strip of South University Avenue from South State Street to East University Avenue, near 525 South State Street. The public right-of-way in this area is unusually wide (100 feet) and this reduction will bring the right-of-way into alignment with the existing City infrastructure, including sidewalks and utilities, while leaving room for future transportation improvements.
Staff reviewed the request and recommended approval. On March 17, 2026, the Planning Commission held a public hearing and voted unanimously to approve the proposed vacation.
The University provided evidence of notice to the private utility and telecommunication companies. These companies noted that there are no utilities located in the area to be vacated.
Staff recommend approval of this right-of-way vacation because all parcels adjacent to it are owned by the University, the vacation will have no impact on vehicular or pedestrian access, and there are no public or private utilities in the area to be vacated. The vacation aligns ownership with the current infrastructure and use of the public right-of-way.
Staff
Prepared by: Emma Berger, City Planner
Jill Thacher, City Planner
Brett Lenart, Planning Manager
Reviewed by: Jordan Roberts, Public Services Administrator
Derek Delacourt, Community Services Area Administrator
Christopher Frost, Senior Assistant City Attorney
Approved by: Milton Dohoney Jr, City Administrator
Body
Whereas, The South University Avenue public right-of-way between South State Street and East University Avenue is 100 feet wide;
Whereas, The University of Michigan has initiated a petition for vacation of the northern 26.5 feet of said public right-of-way;
Whereas, The vacation will not impact the City’s pu...
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