MSU Extension New Urbanism Tour

Cherry Hill, Caton MI| Camden & Saratoga, Novi MI| Town Commons, Howell MI

Cherry Hill , Canton MI

Overall Density: 4 units/acre
Open Space: 25%
ALL roads & parks private
Average price of home in Canton Area $400K, these homes run $30-$40k more to build
Price range: $170k-$800k
Lot size 40x100 (Cottage - alley loaded) , 55x110 (Village), 80x120 (Estate)
House size - 1400 sq ft up to 7000sq ft (avg 2300sq ft)

Notes:

Multiple builders, all designs must be approved by LRK (firm hired to review)
Phase 1 completed, 80% occupied, phase 2 started, 3 planned to start in fall
Houses are raised 3' to create feeling
All models are built around park because you have to walk it to feel it
No school planned within housing portion of development. One will be across the street.
Required to build out as designed, sunset 15 years
Developer commented that people want traditional but some have to learn tolerance of mixed housing options (apt next door single family)
Four day charrette was held to plan community performing arts building
Use easement on adjoining property to make a usable side yard on one side.
No sign of kids, one group saw some riding bikes. There is no room for swings on individual properties. Community would have to provide them or alternative play structures at the parks (squares).
Commercial built but not leased yet. Big concern over viability of commercial.
www.cherryhillvillage.com

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Camden & Saratoga , Novi MI

Overall Density: 4 units/acre

Open Space: 20%

'Affordable housing' for area $280k+

42x110

3200 sq ft livable space

Maximum distance between structures 12'

Staggered privacy areas

Notes:

56 houses on 14 acres

Flag comes with every home

Double fronted homes

Some walkouts, garage faces front

Saw one basketball backboard, otherwise no sign of kids

www.srj.com

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Town Commons, Howell MI

Overall Density:

Open Space: 20%

475 total living units

175 single family

80 senior housing (assisted living & Alzheimers)

300 ROW housing or apartments

1400 sq ft home cost $236k, condos from $170k

Notes:

30,000 sq ft commercial not doing well, commercial was built first so people knew what to expect. Good restaurant!

Office & apartments above commercial

Play structure in a park. Saw a kid on a scooter!

School is across the street (state trunk line) from development

Development statement includes wording that structures must file scale & detail of a traditional MI main street

Terminating views are very important - what are you looking at the end of the road

www.towncommonsllc.com

Notes taken by Jane McGookey, City of Kentwood, City Commissioner
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