DETROIT – Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) is moving forward with major improvements across several schools, backed by a $79 million investment approved by the Board of Education.
The funds come from surplus revenue and will support priority projects outlined in the District’s Facility Master Plan.
The investment is drawn from the District’s $212.8 million unrestricted general fund balance at the end of fiscal year 2025, which is available for one-time expenditures.
The Board approved the allocation during its February regular meeting.
Despite lacking annual facility funding, DPSCD continues to invest strategically in its buildings, focusing on fencing, paving, athletic fields, and other critical upgrades.
The District is currently implementing a $700 million facility investment plan that includes modern HVAC systems and new school buildings.
The approved funding invests in 10 priority areas to upgrade school facilities, improve the school experience for students, staff, and families, and fully fund special projects for students.
Key allocations from the $79 million include:
- Demolition of vacant school buildings ($32 million): Accelerating the demolition of 20 vacant properties, including nine Facility Master Plan buildings and 11 additional non-FMP sites. This effort addresses rising demolition costs and reduces blight, safety risks, and violations of city ordinances.
- Vacant building security ($900,000): Boarding up 11 empty properties to prevent trespassing, fires, and emergency response costs while long-term demolition plans proceed. Some buildings may be reused based on demographic needs.
- Paving improvements at 36 schools ($8 million): Bringing an additional 33% of district schools into compliance with paving standards, improving safety, drainage, and site access.
- Fencing repairs and upgrades ($1.2 million): Increasing schools’ meeting fencing standards from 20% to nearly 50%, enhancing safety around playgrounds, parking lots, and athletic fields.
- Health hub additions at Pershing and Cody High Schools ($3.5 million): Adding wraparound health hubs with family resource centers to support physical, mental, and dental wellness.
- Davis Aerospace High School renovations ($7.4 million): Addressing increased construction costs due to the unique needs of the City Airport campus.
- Charles Wright Academy roof replacement ($2.5 million): Funding a full roof replacement following updated assessments.
- Detroit Lions Academy athletic field renovations ($9 million net): Creating a new multi-sport field, bleachers, a field house, and parking. The field will serve Detroit Lions Academy students, Cass Tech’s track teams, and city youth games.
- Cooley Phase II athletic complex ($15 million): Building a new high school athletic complex at the former Cooley High School site, including a track, multi-sport field, lighting, seating, and support facilities for Cody High School, K-8 students, and community youth teams.
The investments aim to improve safety, reduce blight, and enhance the overall school experience for students, staff, and families across Detroit.