Destination Districts Project

The Destination Districts Project, which started in October 2008 by the Tourism Economic Development Council of the Detroit Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau, is an asset-based approach to place-making targeting five areas in the southeast Michigan region. These regions, called “Destination Districts,” feature concentrations of urban, walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods, downtowns, major institutions and other key assets.

The identified areas are South Oakland (Ferndale, Royal Oak, Birmingham, Troy); North Oakland (Pontiac, Rochester, Auburn Hills); Downriver (Dearborn/Wayne); Macomb (Mt. Clemens/nautical mile), and downtown Detroit. Phase one of the project saw each district bring together its own group of public and private sector leaders to devise a strategy that leverages that districts unique assets to attract new investment.

As it enters its second stage under the Foundation, the strategic direction for the project is to assist metro Detroit to build a strong and viable future, both physically and economically. It aims to do this by
mobilizing key leaders to bridge political and organizational boundaries to ensure long- term regional stability.