Community Development

Coverage of community groups bringing about changes, innovations, and solutions in their community.

Schools on the brink: Centers of small-town life, some districts face financial emergencies

Public schools are sources of pride and launching points for lives and careers. But in Ohio, an arcane, unfair system of funding schools persists.

Latest in Community Development
Metro Detroit schools see progress in reducing chronic absenteeism. Here’s how they’re doing it

Statewide chronic absenteeism rates remain above pre-COVID-19-pandemic levels, but Metro Detroit schools are tackling chronic absenteeism by removing barriers to attendance and creating enriching, fun school experiences for students.

On-Demand Coaching helps Michigan municipalities and their small businesses build a winning team

Program helps municipalities connect small businesses and entrepreneurs with existing capital and technical assistance. 

As housing costs rise, CEDAM’s TIF guide frames the way for communities to utilize and personalize tax incentives to meet housing needs

CEDAM has released a new housing TIF guide to help Michigan communities understand and apply tax increment financing as a tool to support local housing development and affordability goals.

How one ailing mall found a new strategy for success

Midland Mall has reached full occupancy, but its focus extends beyond retail. By curating a mix of tenants and experiences, the mall is positioning itself as a shared community space where people can gather, connect, and spend time, not just shop.

Pilot in two Michigan cities will guide strategies for lead pipe replacement across the nation

New project help municipalities secure funding for lead service line replacement.

An ambitious vision, the Triangle Trail would connect more than a dozen communities. It’s making progress.

The 42-mile path would improve access to recreational opportunities in communities through the Mill Creek Valley.

Washtenaw County Director of Elections Rena Basch stands next to a voting machine.
Where county officials say local elections are secure despite Trump calls to ‘nationalize’ them

Washtenaw County elections officials say they're well-prepared to protect against fraud in this year's midterms and any other election. We interviewed them about their system and President Trump's statement that elections should be "nationalize[d]."

Mt. Pleasant line dancing
How a community dance movement fuels connection, wellness and economy

Backyard Boots & Beats is not only bringing people together through line dancing—it’s creating consistent foot traffic, supporting local venues, and building an ecosystem where community-driven entrepreneurship can thrive.

A new view from the saddle: Midland Police introduce mounted patrol

Midland’s first-ever mounted patrol unit is bringing a quieter, more approachable form of policing to community events, creating new opportunities for connection.

Our Partners

WKKF logo
Kresge Foundation logo
IFF logo
JP Morgan Chase logo
Ford Foundation logo
Delta Dental Foundation logo

We want to know what's on your mind.

Close the CTA

Don't miss out!

Inspiration and ideas in your inbox every week.

Close the CTA

Already a subscriber? Enter your email to hide this popup in the future.