Title
Resolution to Endorse the Use of a Broker for the Sale and Development of the Kline's Lot
Memorandum
The City of Ann Arbor has a long history of attempting to develop the Kline's Lot site, spanning over many decades. Beginning in the late 1980s, shortly before the permanent closure of Kline's Department Store, attempts to redevelop the site have been discussed that are diverse in vision, use, and scope, but all have ultimately been unsuccessful. Notable past plans for the site have included:
* In 1988 the DDA identified the Kline's Lot as a site that suitable for a larger multi-use development including residential units and street level retail;
* From 1988-1991, the City attempted to build a municipal parking garage on the site, however after activism from the community to prevent this proposal it was ultimately scrapped by the Council in a 6-5 vote;
* In 2005 the City intended to issue an RFP for the development of the Kline's Lot site, along with two other downtown parking lots, however after various objections about the future of the site and its potential as a green space the Kline's Lot was never successfully redeveloped;
* In 2010 an unsolicited proposal for the Ashley Promenade was made that would have included retail, residential, a conference space, and a hotel, however the development never progressed past the proposal phase due to its lukewarm reception from some stakeholders;
* In 2013, the Connecting William Street Plan suggested the development of a City owned parking structure on the site, in addition to office, residential, ground floor retail, and a performing arts space, however the proposal never made it past the planning phase;
* In 2019, the City Council directed that the site be used to build affordable housing, however no specific plans have been proposed for this use on the site thus far based in part on the Ann Arbor Housing Commission's belief that this site is less suitable for affordable housing than others in the downtown;
* ...
Click here for full text