Historic long-vacant Higginbotham school to be transformed into affordable housing, community space
On November 19, 2024, officials and community members gathered to break ground for the Higginbotham Art Residences, a transformative project that will convert the historic William E. Higginbotham School into 100 units of affordable housing. Located in Detroit’s Eight-Mile-Wyoming neighborhood, the $35.9 million redevelopment will preserve an important cultural city landmark while addressing critical affordable housing needs.
Constructed in 1926, the Mediterranean Revival-style Higginbotham School served as an all-Black elementary school during an era of restrictive housing practices, symbolizing resilience and community solidarity. With support from Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, Historic Tax Credits, MSHDA funding, and City ARPA funds, the project will breathe new life into the building, creating affordable homes and fostering community-oriented spaces for Detroit residents.
The Higginbotham Art Residences reflect URGE Development Group’s mission to incorporate art and celebrate local artists in every project. The property will feature an outdoor sculpture garden and showcase artwork throughout the development, produced by Detroit artists. By blending affordable housing with vibrant cultural elements, the project creates a space where art and community intersect.
Garlin Gilchrist II, Lieutenant Governor of Michigan, emphasized the impact of preserving such landmarks while advancing Detroit’s housing goals. “Governor Whitmer and I are committed to growing access to affordable housing in every community, including right here in Detroit,” said Gilchrist II. “I am excited to be here at the groundbreaking for the Higginbotham School, which will begin new life as 100 units of affordable housing 100 years after it was built. The state of Michigan was proud to provide critical support getting this project across the finish line. Since taking office, we have invested double what we did in the previous 8 years to build or rehabilitate 34,000 housing units, and we will keep standing tall for affordable housing across Michigan.”
Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan highlighted the importance of affordable housing as a cornerstone of community development. “Today’s groundbreaking is about more than a building; it’s about creating a future that respects our past and supports our neighbors. The Higginbotham Art Residences will provide quality, affordable housing that meets the needs of Detroit’s residents and fosters community pride.”
“I firmly believe that investing in our neighborhoods is the key to uplifting our entire city,” said Detroit City Councilmember Angela Whitfield Calloway. “By focusing on development where people have lived and worked, we ensure that residents can remain in the neighborhoods they love. The Higginbotham Art Residences not only contributes to the revitalization of this area but also addresses the urgent need for safe, affordable housing.”
The Higginbotham Art Residences will consist of 100 affordable units available to households earning between 30-80% of the Area Median Income, providing quality housing that Detroit residents can afford. The project will also create spaces for nonprofit and community organizations, fostering a hub for community engagement and support.
The project, led by URGE Development Group in partnership with Cinnaire, Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), and the City of Detroit, is designed to serve as a model for preserving historic buildings while meeting Detroit’s housing and community needs.
“MSHDA is proud to support this project with more than $24 million in financial resources, a commitment that reflects our dedication to creating safe, affordable housing for Michigan residents,” said Amy Hovey, MSHDA Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director. “By partnering on restoration of this cultural landmark, we’re not only expanding access to quality housing but also strengthening communities and providing a foundation for Detroiters to thrive. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this project will have for years to come.”
“The Higginbotham Art Residences is a love letter to the neighborhoods of Detroit. We are creating an example of what can be done to breathe new life into our vacated school buildings. By weaving affordable housing into a campus emersed in art (both inside and outside of the building), we are showing a future of what neighborhood centric development can look like.” said Hardamon, CEO of URGE. “We are excited for the support of each of our partners for this transformative project.”
Teresa Moon, President of the 8 Mile/Birwood Emerge Neighborhood and a Higginbotham alumnus, reflected on her time at the school. “I learned a lot here. This is where I developed into the person I am today. Now, Mr. Rod Hardamon came into our community and talked to us honestly about what he was going to do with this school. I’m just overjoyed.”
Cinnaire Community Connection Senior Vice President Sherita Smith spoke to the collaborative effort behind the project. “This effort is a testament to the power of partnerships. Through collective commitment, we’re turning the vision of affordable housing and community enrichment into reality at Higginbotham, contributing to a stronger, more inclusive Detroit.”
Funding Highlights:
- Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC): $14.1 million
- Historic Tax Credits: $2.7 million
- MSHDA First Mortgage: $4.6 million
- MSHDA CERA: $5.9 million
- City ARPA Funds: $8.4 million
About URGE
URGE is a firm that commits to inclusive and intentional place-keeping, leveraging our expertise in real estate advisory, development, and investment to catalyze systemic growth. By innovating new financial solutions, we broaden opportunities for underrepresented developers strengthening the ecosystem in order to foster the development of generational firms. URGE develops and advises projects to enhance communities sustainably and equitably. Our collaborative approach through deep community engagement, fosters long-lasting benefits, welcoming new residents while honoring long-term inhabitants, in a manner that ensures equity for all stakeholders.