Whatโs that on State Street? New downtown Ann Arbor plaza gets festoon lights
ANN ARBOR, MI โ The Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authorityโs makeover of State Street is continuing and some finishing touches for phase one were completed this week. A crew from J. Ranck Electric Inc. works to install new festoon lighting for a new downtown Ann Arbor plaza along State Street at North University Avenue on Jan. 9, 2023.Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor NewsThe new festoon lights, once turned on, will be lit up year-round, Thomson said. They are the last piece of phase one of the Street Street redesign and reconstruction project that has included various changes this past year, including a new curbless design. Downtown Ann Arbor's new plaza at State Street and North University Avenue on Jan. 10, 2023.Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor NewsThe focus of this yearโs State Street overhaul was the stretch from William Street up to North U. The city also will be doing water main work and street resurfacing extending an extra block north to Huron Street.
mlive.comJim Bradyโs Ann Arbor to permanently close, owner says
ANN ARBOR, MI -- An Ann Arbor restaurant known for its selection of seafood and downtown-Detroit feel is permanently closed, the owner announced on social media. Jim Bradyโs is shutting down shop at its Ann Arbor location, 209 S. Main St., owner Tom Brady announced on Instagram Wednesday, Jan. 4. โWhat began as an exciting expansion to Downtown Ann Arbor instead became the tale of the pandemic and how our world has changed,โ Brady wrote on Instagram. The restaurantโs Royal Oak location will remain open and accept gift cards purchased at the Ann Arbor location. โJim Bradyโs Royal Oak is still rocking and looking forward to seeing some of our Ann Arbor guests in the future.โRead more from The Ann Arbor News:โBe careful on the ice,โ Washtenaw County sheriff warns2023 antique tractor parade across Mackinac Bridge canceledMini roundabouts, bike lanes planned for northeast Ann Arbor road
mlive.comThese Ann Arbor businesses closed during 2022
ANN ARBOR, MI -- Although Ann Arbor saw more than 30 businesses open in 2022, it also saw a handful close. From planned-out anniversary closures to abrupt closures noted only by signs on doors, these Ann Arbor businesses shuttered their doors in 2022. Downtown Ann Arbor salon closing after 30 yearsAdventures in Homebrewing closed its Ann Arbor location, 6071 Jackson Road, in late March 2022.Jordyn Pair | jpair@mlive.comAdventures in HomebrewingAdventures in Homebrewing, 6071 Jackson Road, permanently closed its Ann Arbor location in March. Adventures in Homebrewing closes Ann Arbor locationA pizza vending machine serves hot or cold pies at PizzaForno on South University Avenue in Ann Arbor on Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2022.Jacob HamiltonPizzaFornoAlthough PizzaForno opened its vending machine pizza concept in Ann Arbor in January 2022, it closed after less than a year, pulling the machine in September. New Standard to close Ann Arbor location, transfer ownership to new dispensaryThe interior of Chatime Bubble Tea Shop, Tuesday, May 7, 2019 in Ann Arbor.
mlive.comFeds willing to learn about Ann Arborโs ideas for downtown federal site
ANN ARBOR, MI โ The federal government is willing to hear Ann Arborโs ideas for reimagining the Federal Building site downtown, but itโs not making any other promises yet. We have not been contacted by the city but are willing to learn about their objectives,โ the GSA added. South of the Federal Building on the same block, the city now has plans for an 18-story high-rise development. The Federal Building includes a U.S. Post Office, U.S. District Court and offices for the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Demolition of the Masonic Temple in downtown Ann Arbor in September 1975.Cecil Lockard | Ann Arbor News archives courtesy of OldNews.AADL.orgEven if it was possible to save the temple, commissioners acknowledged in 1974 there were other obstacles, including finding a suitable use for it.
mlive.comWhatโs that on Miller Avenue? New Ann Arbor bikeway has special instructions
ANN ARBOR, MI โ Downtown Ann Arborโs newest bikeway is now open and it comes with special instructions for users. The two-way protected bikeway runs along the south side of Miller Avenue/Catherine Street for several blocks, creating a new east-west thoroughfare for cyclists and scooter riders from First Street through Kerrytown to Division Street. To avoid westbound cyclists and scooter riders continuing into the eastbound bike lane, signs are posted advising them to follow a two-step process. Downtown Ann Arbor's new Miller-Catherine bikeway open on Nov. 28, 2022.Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor NewsStep one: Westbound cyclists and scooter riders are instructed to cross First Street when signals say pedestrians can cross. Downtown Ann Arbor's new Miller-Catherine bikeway open on Nov. 28, 2022.Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor NewsOnce on the north side of Miller Avenue, cyclists and scooter riders can continue west on the one-way bike lane there.
mlive.comAnn Arbor imagines higher-density redevelopment of federal site downtown
ANN ARBOR, MI โ With interest in seeing more high-density development downtown, Ann Arbor officials are imagining a redevelopment of the Federal Building site. The site also includes a large parking lot for postal vehicles and federal workers behind the building. The raised plaza in front of the Federal Building, which has steps leading up to the main entrance, has been the site of countless public protests on many issues over the years. The way the site is configured, itโs not terribly inviting to pedestrians and itโs kind of a trip hazard, said Disch, D-1st Ward. Mayor Christopher Taylor said there have been musings for years about the Federal Buildingโs utility.
mlive.comAnn Arbor aims to accelerate development of downtown public restrooms
ANN ARBOR, MI โ Ann Arbor officials have described downtown as the cityโs living room. Noting a lack of public restrooms downtown means people sometimes pee in downtown alleys, two outgoing City Council members โ Ali Ramlawi and Jeff Hayner โ sponsored a resolution last week to encourage development of more public restrooms in the downtown area. Downtown Ann Arbor's Main Street on June 4, 2022.Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor NewsIn a 10-0 vote, council directed City Administrator Milton Dohoney to put public restrooms in the cityโs capital improvement plan and look for creative ways to accelerate their development. The Ann Arbor District Library and Blake Transit Center in downtown Ann Arbor on June 9, 2022.Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor NewsThough there are public restrooms in facilities such as the downtown library, the Blake Transit Center and city hall, theyโre only open certain hours, Ramlawi has noted. The burden of providing downtown public restrooms shouldnโt be on the library, Ramlawi said.
mlive.comLook for Tag Day fundraisers hitting streets in early December
ANN ARBOR, MI --Downtown Ann Arbor streets will soon be filled by a crowd of medical students all after one thing โ your charity. Galens Tag Day, Dec. 1-3 this year, is an annual fundraiser benefitting a variety of area childrenโs charities. Roughly 100 medical students from the University of Michigan will be stationed on Ann Arbor street corners, soliciting donations and donning donors with colored tags. The Tag Day fundraiser, now in its 96th year, is run by the Galens Medical Society, a nonprofit based in the University of Michigan Medical School. โWeโre excited for that, and weโre excited to share in the holiday and the spirit of generosity.โLearn more about Galens Tag Day or donate online or on social media.
mlive.comTraffic watch: Road construction round-up for Washtenaw County, Oct. 30
Southbound Platt Road traffic will detour east on Washtenaw Avenue, south on South Huron Parkway and then return to Platt Road. Read more: Utility installation at site of new sustainable development will close Ann Arbor roadsSouth University Avenue and East University Avenue: South University Avenue between Church Street and East University Avenue, along with East University Avenue between South University Avenue and Willard Street, is seeing utility construction for a new 13-story high-rise building. Westbound South University Avenue traffic will detour south on Church Street, to Hill Street, north on Tappan Street and then back to South University Avenue. Those traveling east on South University Avenue will detour south on East University Avenue, east on Hill Street, north on Church Street and then back to South University Avenue. Liberty Road: The road between Zeeb Road and Knight Road will face intermittent lane closure from Monday, Oct. 24, to Wednesday, Nov. 30.
mlive.comParked cars, trucks block new downtown Ann Arbor bike lanes
ANN ARBOR, MI โ Two freshly painted bike lanes in downtown Ann Arbor are already seeing high use โ from automobiles parking in them. A vehicle parked in one of the new bike lanes on North University Avenue in downtown Ann Arbor on Oct. 26, 2022.Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor NewsFor westbound traffic, there is a new car parking lane between the bike lane and car travel lane, which some are using, but more were using the bike lane to park on Wednesday, Oct. 26. Vehicles parked in a new bikeway that's not yet complete on Catherine Street in downtown Ann Arbor on Oct. 26, 2022.Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor NewsA DDA-hired contractor also is working to complete a new two-way protected bikeway along Miller Avenue/Catherine Street through the Kerrytown district. An Amazon delivery truck parked in the First Street bikeway in downtown Ann Arbor on Oct. 26, 2022.Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor NewsOfficials have said they canโt install more posts to keep cars and trucks out of the bikeways because there needs to be room for city maintenance equipment to access the lanes. MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:Downtown Ann Arbor street closure coming for 19-story high-rise project10 great Ann Arbor nature areas perfect for fall trail hikingAnn Arbor residents behind on water bills can get up to $650 under new programAnn Arbor buying flood-prone site previously used for urban flower farmStarbucks accuses Ann Arbor union of unfair labor practices
mlive.comAnn Arborโs new curbless-design State Street opens to traffic
ANN ARBOR, MI โ Downtown Ann Arborโs first curbless street is now open to vehicle traffic. As the first phase of a major State Street redesign and rebuild winds down, the Downtown Development Authority announced the streetโs reopening Saturday, Oct. 8, after four months of construction. The DDA has cautioned there will be intermittent lane closures on State Street necessary for the contractor to complete remaining work items. And from next April through Labor Day 2023, State Street from North U to Washington will close for the second phase of full reconstruction with curbless design. MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:Fall color is here in the Ann Arbor area.
mlive.comSottiniโs Super Sub can defeat lunch-time hunger for under $10
ANN ARBOR, MI โ Itโs 11 a.m. in downtown Ann Arbor and Iโm ready to eat something that will not only keep you going for the rest of the day, but also taste magnificent. Downtown Ann Arbor has many great lunch options, but for this weekโs dish of the week I could think of no better option to satisfy my hunger than The Super Sub made by the fine folks at Sottiniโs Sub Shop on South 4th Avenue in the heart of downtown.
mlive.comTailgaters gather outside Michigan Stadium ahead of season opener against Colorado State
ANN ARBOR, MI -- Downtown Ann Arbor was once again teeming with fans wearing maize and blue as the University of Michigan Wolverines prepared for their home opener against Colorado State on Saturday, Sept. 3. Gary has been tailgating outside of Michigan Stadium for 44 years as his family has had three generations attend the University of Michigan. For the Miller family, the 2022 season opener was marked with some sadness, as it was the first game they had tailgated at without their grandfather Bob Miller, who passed away on Christmas Day 2021. He had never missed a game, and been a season ticket holder since the late 1960s, so the family prepared a small memorial for him as they enjoyed this yearโs opener. The Miller family holds a sign in honor of their grandfather Bob Miller while tailgating outside of the Big House ahead of Michigan's home opener game against Colorado State on September 3, 2022.Ryan Sun | rsun@mlive.comRead more on MLive:Michigan vs. Colorado State live updates: Wolverines out to an early leadMichigan football missing two starters vs. Colorado StateHow to watch Michigan vs. Colorado State: Live stream, TV channel, kickoff time
mlive.comStreet through Ann Arborโs Kerrytown closing for months-long bikeway installation project
ANN ARBOR, MI - A new protected bikeway is coming to downtown Ann Arbor, alongside infrastructure improvements to a street running through the Kerrytown district. It is the fourth and latest in a series of Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority bikeway projects. Vehicles headed north on Fourth Avenue will be detoured via Ann, Ashley and Kingsley Streets, while southbound cars will travel around the closure on Kingsley Street, Fifth Avenue and Ann Street. More from The Ann Arbor News:Downtown Ann Arborโs third 2-way protected bikeway now openWhatโs in store for the unofficial mountain biking loop in Ann Arborโs backyard? See where Ann Arbor plans to spend $474K planting 1,000 more treesAnn Arbor Muffler to reopen more than a year after fire
mlive.comShimmy Shack owner seeking buyer for vegan, gluten-free food truck
Levantrosser owns Shimmy Shack, a vegan and gluten-free food truck serving the Ann Arbor and Detroit areas, and recently put out a call for buyers for the business. The sale does not include Shimmyโs Cupboard, a food pantry serving vegan and gluten-free food. Shimmy Shack serves a variety of vegan and gluten-free foods, including a soy-based coney dog, a falafel pita, nachos and cookies. An ideal buyer would have a passion for gluten-free and vegan food, Levantrosser said. Read more from The Ann Arbor News:Downtown Ann Arbor street reduced to one lane for bikeway projectDoorDash driver killed in Detroit during first day on the jobAnn Arbor Skyline names former Michigan football player Andre Criswell new athletic director
mlive.comAnn Arbor mayor, council candidates lay out platforms in 3-minute videos
ANN ARBOR, MI โ Candidates for Ann Arbor mayor and City Council are continuing to make their platforms known with the Aug. 2 primary less than a month away. There are contested council races in wards 1, 4 and 5 this year, in addition to the citywide mayoral race, and early absentee voting began recently. All candidates in the running are Democrats competing for four-year terms. Mayor Christopher TaylorMayoral challenger Anne Bannister1st Ward candidate Cynthia Harrison1st Ward candidate Angeline Smith4th Ward incumbent Elizabeth Nelson4th Ward challenger Dharma Akmon4th Ward challenger Mozhgan Savabieasfahani5th Ward incumbent Ali Ramlawi5th Ward challenger Jenn CornellRead more Ann Arbor-area election coverage. MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:3 Democrats running in new Michigan Senate district covering Ann Arbor, Jackson4 vying to be next 14A District Court judge in Washtenaw CountyThe Firefighter Spray Park cools the community after Fourth of July paradeRappel down the side of an Ann Arbor skyscraper for this fundraiserDowntown Ann Arbor street reduced to one lane for bikeway project
mlive.comEnjoy Thursday music, Sunday brunching with A2 Summer Streets
ANN ARBOR, MI -- With street closures and the newly opened social district, downtown Ann Arbor was already set for a summer in the sun. But the Main Street Area Association wants to kick Main Street into even higher gear with a string of weekly events featuring live music, free activities and downtown brunch specials. The downtown street closures have been โsuper successful,โ Sandra Andrade, Main Street Area Association executive director, said, adding she is excited to expand the areaโs offerings. On March 21, Ann Arbor City Council approved closures for 2022 running from May 5 until Oct. 31. Related: Ann Arbor OKs social district with open alcohol to operate 7 days a weekThe addition of the A2 Summer Streets will hopefully entice more people downtown, Andrade said.
mlive.comMan accused in ham and bagel shop burglaries was on probation for 6 break-ins
ANN ARBOR, MI โ A man who was accused of breaking into six Ann Arbor business and was later sentenced to probation was arrested Thursday accused of breaking into three more. Matthew Jonathan Gibbings, 43, was arraigned Friday, May 13, on new breaking and entering charges after being arrested on suspicion he broke into three Ann Arbor businesses in quick succession. Police were called at 9:35 p.m. Thursday, May 12, to the Vitamin Shop, 3365 Washtenaw Ave., for an alarm reporting a break in, according to the Ann Arbor Police Department. While on scene, officers saw the nearby Honey Baked Ham shop appeared to have been broken into as well, police said. About 30 minutes later officers were called to another nearby alarm reporting a break-in at Bagel Fragel and went to the scene to investigate, police said.
mlive.comHello, Ann Arbor: Shake off the winter blues with new restaurants; election season is here
With that said, there are a couple of new joints to check out in Ann Arbor. This cafรฉ and bar coming to Ann Arbor focuses on neighborhood atmosphereA new business owner is on a mission to liven up a less developed area of Ann Arbor with a walkable neighborhood bar. TOP will run from June 10 to July 3 at Ingalls Mall, 881 N. University Ave. in Ann Arbor. About โHello, Ann Arborโ: Each week, we deliver the big headlines straight to your inbox via our Friday 3@3 Ann Arbor newsletter. MORE โHELLO, ANN ARBORโ:Hello, Ann Arbor: Government dysfunction spreads west; fighting darkness with FOIAHello, Ann Arbor: Big plans afoot for Briarwood Mall area; save the bees, donโt mowHello, Ann Arbor: Hash Bash is here; protesters chain themselves to machines to save the treesHello, Ann Arbor: Saline bar featured in TV show; Michigan Stadiumโs $41M scoreboard projectHello, Ann Arbor: Common Grill to stay open; the Dexter tornado 10 years laterHello, Ann Arbor: Hash Bash plans for 50th; Dimoโs could be yours for $1MSchool board finally meets; Michigan football benefactor dies: Ann Arbor headlines Feb. 25-March 3
mlive.comAnn Arbor OKs social district with open alcohol to operate 7 days a week
ANN ARBOR, MI -- Downtown Ann Arborโs social district โ an area where visitors can walk around with alcoholic drinks โ will soon be operating seven days a week, thanks to a resolution passed by Ann Arbor City Council on Monday. The social district, which launched in December 2021, is currently open from 4 to 11 p.m. Thursday through Sunday in downtown Ann Arbor. And despite the early morning start time for the social district, only โone or twoโ of the participating restaurants are open at 10 a.m., she added. We had the social district in play for (Midnight Madness) and it went really, really well,โ Andrade said. Read more from The Ann Arbor News:New restaurant opening in former Banfieldโs space in Ann ArborFederal judge dismisses excessive force lawsuit against Ann Arbor police officersAnn Arborโs $15M plan to ramp up street repairs means more construction coming
mlive.comAnn Arbor opens applications for Class C liquor licenses
ANN ARBOR, MI -- Ann Arbor has opened up a handful of applications to fill new spots available for Class C liquor licenses. An additional eight Class C licenses, which allow a business to sell alcohol for consumption on the premises, have become available after the release of 2020 Census data, which shows that the cityโs population grew from roughly 119,000 residents to around 124,000 residents. The city is now allowed 83 retails Class C licenses. Applications will remain open until 5 p.m. on Friday, April 22 and require a $150 processing fee. Read more from The Ann Arbor News:Downtown Ann Arbor street closures for restaurants to return in MayMichigan hockeyโs โold veteranโ ready for one last ride in NCAA TournamentMichigan redistricting was fraught.
mlive.comLightning strike causes $150K in damage to Ann Arbor home
ANN ARBOR, MI โ An Ann Arbor home sustained a sizable amount of damage when it was struck by lightning during Wednesdayโs thunderstorm and caught fire. Fire crews were called to the home in the 2500 block of Bunker Hill Road at 4:50 p.m. March 24, according to the Ann Arbor Fire Department. With the additional support, crews were able to bring the fire under control and extinguish the blaze, saving the home, officials said. The Ann Arbor Township Fire Department assisted at the scene. More from MLive:Downtown Ann Arbor street closures for restaurants to return in MayAnn Arbor School Board meeting delayed after attendees remove masksEMU students organize non-partisan rally to support Ukraine, protest Russian invasion
mlive.comDowntown Ann Arbor street closures for restaurants to return in May
ANN ARBOR, MI -- Main Street closures will be returning to downtown Ann Arbor this summer, thanks to a resolution recently passed by City Council. Although Ann Arbor has seen a variety of street closures over the past two years, it was previously unclear if the closures would continue into 2022. Related: Downtown Ann Arbor street closures to continue through Nov. 1But on Monday, March 21, Ann Arbor City Council passed a resolution that allows the closures to resume on May 5 and run until Oct. 31. Closures start at 4 p.m. on Thursdays and end at 6 a.m. on Mondays and will be located at:Main Street from William Street to Washington StreetWest Liberty Street from Ashley Street to Main StreetEast Liberty Street from Main Street to Fourth AvenueWest Washington Street will be closed from Ashley Street to Main Street full-time. Read more from The Ann Arbor News:Savvy Sliders to slip into former Ypsilanti pizza spotDefense objects to โsnitchโ invoking Fifth Amendment in Gov.
mlive.comConnect with a stranger, become actor and audience in theater experiment at UM art museum
ANN ARBOR โ An experimental theater presentation that transforms two guests into both actor and audience is returning for its first in-person performance at the University of Michigan. โA Thousand Ways, Part Two: An Encounterโ opened Tuesday, March 8, at the University of Michigan Museum of Art. But this time guests meet in person in the museumโs glass-walled gallery. The in-person exhibit allows for a different take on the seriesโ exploration of human connection, Christopher Ankney, UMMA director of marketing and public relations, said. The in-person exhibit runs from March 8 to April 24, and guests can sign up for a 90-minute slot on A2SFโs website.
mlive.comAnn Arbor author covers Michigan beer history from Prohibition to brewpubs in new book
ANN ARBOR, MI -- Whether you drink Miller Lite or brew your own stouts, one Ann Arbor teacherโs new book is set to teach you about Michiganโs boozy history. Patti Smith, a teacher with the Ann Arbor Public Schools, recently published โMichigan Beer: A Heady History,โ her fifth traditionally published book and fourth historical book. Smith has also written โVanishing Ann Arbor,โ โDowntown Ann Arborโ and โA History of the Peopleโs Food Co-op Ann Arbor.โโMichigan Beerโ starts with Michigan immigrants in the mid-1880s and goes through what she calls โthe new waveโ of beer with the return of brewpubs to the state in the 1980s. While the book covers primarily Michigan beer history, there is also something for those who are less interested in brewing or specialty beers, Smith said. Despite her familiarity with both beer and historical books, the process for writing โMichigan Beerโ was different than she expected.
mlive.comDowntown Ann Arbor sandwich shop permanently closes
ANN ARBOR, MI -- Downtown Ann Arborโs Which Wich Superior Sandwiches has permanently closed, according to a sign pasted on the restaurantโs door. Which Wich, 301 East Liberty St., came to downtown Ann Arbor in 2015 and launched another location a year later in Briarwood Mall. Besides both Ann Arbor locations closing permanently, several other Michigan locations are temporarily closed. A sign on the door saying the store has โpermanently closedโ offered no further explanation. Which Wich Superior Sandwiches did not respond to a request for comment.
mlive.comAnti-Israel activist announces campaign for Ann Arbor City Council
ANN ARBOR, MI โ Mozhgan Savabieasfahani, an anti-Israel activist and staunch critic of Ann Arborโs City Council, said sheโs running for council in the 4th Ward again. Dharma Akmon, an Ann Arbor District Library trustee and University of Michigan assistant research scientist, previously announced her campaign. โWhy does this City Council fill the streets with luxury housing while doing nothing about public housing?โ she said. MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:Ann Arbor mayor pro tem announces she wonโt seek reelectionAnn Arbor is one of Michiganโs great cities, so why is its government such a mess? Downtown Ann Arborโs third 2-way protected bikeway now openDingell moving to Ann Arbor to run in newly drawn congressional districtHow they voted: Ann Arbor City Council vote breakdown for December 2021
mlive.comYpsilanti landmark could become marijuana facility, hairstylist opens dream salon: Ann Arbor headlines Dec. 18-23
ANN ARBOR, MI โ An Ypsilanti landmark may be becoming a marijuana facility in the near future. Dream comes true for Ann Arbor hairstylist who opened downtown salonDowntown Ann Arbor has welcomed a new hair salon with a creative twist dedicated to the community. While this 1,800-square-foot salon is new to the historic Kerrytown area, its owner and Ann Arbor family man Addison Foote is a well-seasoned hairstylist whoโs following his dreams in opening his own studio. Foote, 32, opened the doors of One Eleven Salon on Dec. 7 โ just in time for the holidays. 4-story housing development proposed near Trader Joeโs in Ann ArborA major new housing development is in the planning stages near Trader Joeโs in Ann Arbor.
mlive.comDream comes true for Ann Arbor hairstylist who opened downtown salon
ANN ARBOR, MI โ Downtown Ann Arbor has welcomed a new hair salon with a creative twist dedicated to the community. While this 1,800-square-foot salon is new to the historic Kerrytown area, its owner and Ann Arbor family man Addison Foote is a well-seasoned hairstylist whoโs following his dreams in opening his own studio.
mlive.comMeet 7 local artists at Ann Arborโs downtown holiday pop-up gallery
ANN ARBOR, MI โ Downtown Ann Arborโs holiday pop-up art gallery will be hosting a โMeet the Artistsโ day after adding seven new artists to the event. โThe gallery has helped these local artists a lot and it feels so good to be a part of that,โ said Moran. While visiting, guests have the opportunity to support Ann Arborโs artists by purchasing holiday gifts of handmade art and ceramics, poetry, paintings, purses and greeting cards. It would be great to be able to do this again next year.โThe gallery will remain open from now until Christmas Eve on Tuesdays-Sundays, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.To learn more about the holiday pop-up art gallery, visit the website. MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:2-way bikeway included in Ann Arborโs plan to improve State and Hill streetsDense โnew urbanโ development near Ann Arbor can move forward after township OK$40 million expansion of Rackham building in Detroit approved by University of Michigan regentsAnn Arbor businesses check IDs for alcohol sales 4% less than state average, new report says
mlive.comLate-night holiday shopping, live entertainment part of downtown Ann Arbor events
ANN ARBOR, MI -- Downtown Ann Arbor is making shopping for holiday gifts easy with upcoming events that will see stores staying open late. Midnight Madness and Moonlight Madness, hosted by the Main Street Area Association and State Street District Association, respectively, will feature late-night hours, specials and entertainment on Saturday, Dec. 3, with hours varying by location.
mlive.comDelivery robot out of service, how people get by without broadband: Ann Arbor headlines Oct. 16-21
ANN ARBOR, MI โ A robotic delivery service that roamed the streets of Ann Arbor for the last year will no longer be bringing people tasty goods. Robotic delivery service pulls commercial fleet from Ann Arbor streetsAn Ann Arbor โlast mileโ technology company has pulled its commercial operations out of the city due to an expansion in Texas. Gibbings, 42, is accused of breaking into six downtown Ann Arbor businesses in a two-block area, smashing his way into each business and stealing cash after breaking open cash registers, according to the Ann Arbor Police Department. Ann Arbor School Board member removed from committees for social media useAnn Arbor School Board member Jeff Gaynor has been removed from his committee duties for the remainder of the year. Ann Arbor OKs plan to cut down hundreds of trees for 57-home luxury subdivisionCity officials have OKโd plans for national homebuilder Toll Brothers to cut down hundreds of landmark trees and develop a 57-home luxury subdivision in a wooded area in northeast Ann Arbor.
mlive.comAnn Arbor DDA beginning work on new Division Street bikeway
ANN ARBOR, MI โ A third protected bikeway is coming soon to downtown Ann Arbor. The Downtown Development Authority is moving forward next week with installing a two-way bikeway along the east side of Division Street. Construction for the Division Street bikeway is being broken down into two parts and first is the section north of Huron Street, said Maura Thomson, DDA interim director. The easternmost lane of Division Street from Huron to Catherine is closing for construction starting Monday, Oct. 11, and Division Street will be reduced to one lane of northbound traffic. MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:Ann Arbor OKs design costs for new Border-to-Border Trail tunnel pathwayDowntown Ann Arbor lot long envisioned as future green space gets new coat of asphaltHow they voted: Ann Arbor City Council vote breakdown for September 2021Ann Arbor offering free home improvements to income-qualified seniorsProposed Ann Arbor law requires large buildings to disclose energy data
mlive.comLooking for a place to take in fall foliage? Check out this new nature preserve near Ann Arbor
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI - Looking to get outdoors this fall? The Southeast Michigan Land Conservancy bought the property for $693,000 with funding from Superior Township, Washtenaw County and the City of Ann Arbor in late 2019. Washtenaw County holds a conservation easement on the land and Ann Arborโs Greenbelt land preservation program helped with the purchase. The location โmakes it easily accessible for the local area as well as the Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti communities. More from The Ann Arbor News:Downtown Ann Arbor streets to close for return of annual Green FairMastodon tooth found by 6-year-old on a hike.
mlive.comYear-long maintenance project set to begin at popular Ann Arbor dog park
ANN ARBOR, MI โ Ann Arborโs Swift Run Dog Park is set to undergo a year-long improvement project. Starting Monday, Oct. 4, half of the large-dog portion of the park at 4000 Platt Road will close for extensive maintenance. โThe year-long project will include new fencing, replacing turf and allowing the turf to establish over the winter and spring,โ the city stated in a news release. The plan is to always keep one side of the large-dog area open during the project, and the small-dog area will not be impacted and will remain open, officials said. Under a new law approved by City Council, dogs in Ann Arbor can be labeled dangerous if they have โprovokedโ people or other dogs, which can result in $500 tickets for owners.
mlive.comAnn Arbor vaccine mandate will be โas strict as we are legally able,โ city administrator says
ANN ARBOR, MI โ The enforceability of Ann Arborโs vaccine mandate for city employees remains uncertain after Gov. City officials are still determined to keep the mandate in place, but just how strict it can be is the question now. Ann Arbor officials are now looking into the legality of continuing to require all city employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or face potential termination. Acting City Administrator John Fournier updated city employees on the issue via email Thursday, Sept. 30, noting City Council passed a resolution unanimously supporting the cityโs vaccine mandate and directing the city attorney to provide legal options in response to the state legislation. Still, the vaccination rate among city employees is nearing 75%, Fournier said.
mlive.com5 things to know about the return of Ann Arbor-Detroit express bus service
ANN ARBOR, MI โ Hourly express bus service between Ann Arbor and Detroit is making a comeback. The Ann Arbor stop is near the corner of Fifth Avenue and William Street across from the downtown library. The pilot bus service is a partnership between the Regional Transit Authority of Southeast Michigan and the Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority, also known as TheRide. The D2A2 buses will be operated by Michigan Flyer, a company that officials say is known for friendly drivers, comfortable buses and dependability. Ann Arbor Mayor Christopher Taylor said heโs excited about the return of the service.
mlive.comNew condo development proposed in downtown Ann Arbor
ANN ARBOR, MI โ As Ann Arbor continues to see more and more population and housing growth, another new condo development is proposed downtown. โItโs going to look a bit unique and bit more modern and pretty nice for downtown,โ he said. As for whether heโs still bullish on the Ann Arbor condo market, โThings are really starting to pick up after a year of not much happening due to COVID and so on,โ he said. The project involves demolishing an old brick house on land now used as an office and staging area for construction Fitzsimmons is doing on another condo building next door. MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:Downtown Ann Arbor lot long envisioned as future green space gets new coat of asphaltAnn Arbor aims to lead by example while promoting sustainable, plant-based dietsDozens of landlords sue Ann Arbor over new renter rights lawAnn Arbor plans to spend over $100M to ensure continued reliable drinking waterAnn Arborites asked to share ways city can become more bicycle-friendly
mlive.com2 finalists in running for Ann Arbor interim city administrator job
ANN ARBOR, MI โ Ann Arbor has narrowed its search for a new interim city administrator to two finalists. City Council voted unanimously at a special meeting Monday night, Sept. 13, to interview Peter Burchard and Milton Dohoney, both external candidates, for the temporary job of leading city hall for possibly a year or longer. Dohoney has decades of experience working in municipal government in Arizona, Ohio and Kentucky, including eight years as city manager in Cincinnati and seven years as assistant city manager in Phoenix. The city is looking to fill its top executive position following councilโs recent decision to part ways with City Administrator Tom Crawford over offensive remarks. MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:Dozens of landlords sue Ann Arbor over new renter rights lawAnn Arbor aims to lead by example while promoting sustainable, plant-based dietsDowntown Ann Arbor lot long envisioned as future green space gets new coat of asphaltโLiterally power to the people.โ Ann Arbor group gearing up for ballot campaignAnn Arbor home of late Black poet Robert Hayden could get historic designation
mlive.comDozens of landlords sue Ann Arbor over new renter rights law
ANN ARBOR, MI โ A group of local landlords is suing the city of Ann Arbor over a new renter rights law. โThey donโt give a damn about us.โ Debate over Ann Arbor renter rights heats upThe new law gives renters several extra months before landlords can force them to renew or lose their apartments for the next year. Together, they own thousands of apartments in Ann Arbor. The Washtenaw Area Apartment Association represents 310 members, including 122 with a combined 16,528 rental properties in Ann Arbor, according to the lawsuit. MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:Ann Arbor aims to lead by example while promoting sustainable, plant-based dietsDowntown Ann Arbor lot long envisioned as future green space gets new coat of asphaltNew Ann Arbor law aims to protect night skies from light pollutionโLiterally power to the people.โ Ann Arbor group gearing up for ballot campaignAnn Arbor gives final OK to relaxing rules for home-based businesses
mlive.comAnn Arbor aims to lead by example while promoting sustainable, plant-based diets
ANN ARBOR, MI โ Ann Arborโs A2Zero carbon-neutrality plan calls for spending over $200,000 promoting plant-rich diets over the next decade to get residents eating less meat. Ramlawi proposed adding UM to the list of entities with which the city administrator should collaborate, at which point Acting City Administrator John Fournier pushed back and asked council to give him more flexibility. โA lot of the food choices that we highlight here can potentially impact the cost of the food as well,โ he said. โAnd I want to make sure that we identify that.โThose concerns are valid, but bad food choices result in more disease and medical costs, Ramlawi said. MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:How a vegan diet could fit into Ann Arborโs carbon-neutrality planDowntown Ann Arbor lot long envisioned as future green space gets new coat of asphaltโLiterally power to the people.โ Ann Arbor group gearing up for ballot campaignNew Ann Arbor law aims to protect night skies from light pollutionAnn Arbor homeowners use solar backup batteries to weather power outages
mlive.comMan accused of sexual assaults in downtown Ann Arbor says he wonโt fight the charges
ANN ARBOR, MI โ A man facing several felony sexual assault charges after being accused of committing a string of assaults against women in downtown Ann Arbor is heading to trial. In the span of three days -- July 16, 17 and 18 -- three women were assaulted in downtown Ann Arbor. Police believe the same person committed all three assaults, according to the Ann Arbor Police Department. Holloway is scheduled for his first pretrial hearing Sept. 15 before Washtenaw County Trial Judge Archie Brown. Anyone with information about the assaults is asked to contact Ann Arbor Police Det.
mlive.comAnn Arbor surpasses Lansing for fifth-most populous Michigan city
ANN ARBOR, MI - Years of new housing developments have reaped expected rewards for Ann Arborโs population growth. Ann Arbor passed Lansing, its neighbor an hour-drive north on I-96, for the No. Lansing now stands as the sixth-largest city in Michigan, ahead of Clinton Charter Township by more than 7,000 residents. Read more: Downtown Ann Arbor on the rise: Latest look at development projects taking shapeThis is despite Ann Arborโs rising housing costs. โAnn Arbor is a walkable, bikeable, and diverse community with a great downtown and great neighborhoods.,โ he said to MLive/The Ann Arbor News.
mlive.com5 biggest population climbers, fallers in U.S. Census for Washtenaw, Livingston counties
Here are the top-five climbers and fallers in population in both Washtenaw and Livingston counties over the last decade. 7 Drone photos of Ann Arbor developments - June 2021Washtenaw County ClimbersAnn Arbor, plus 9,917 residents, grew 8.7%In terms of raw numbers, no city has grown as much as Ann Arbor in either Washtenaw or Livingston counties. Read more: Downtown Ann Arbor on the rise: Latest look at development projects taking shapeThis is despite Ann Arborโs rising housing costs. โAnn Arbor is a walkable, bikeable, and diverse community with a great downtown and great neighborhoods.,โ he said. โWe work hard to maintain a high quality of life and so weโre not surprised to see people moving into town and helping to grow our community.โOthers:Pittsfield Charter Township, plus 4,484 residents, grew 12.9%Ypsilanti Charter Township, plus 2,308 residents, grew 4.3%Superior Township, plus 1,774 residents, grew 13.6%Salem Township, plus 1,391 residents, grew 24.7%A 43-acre luxury lot is available for purchase in the Delhi Metropark area of Scio Township off Delhi Road.
mlive.comStorms flood Washtenaw County, downtown assault suspect charged: Ann Arbor headlines Aug. 7-12
ANN ARBOR, MI โ A wave of storms hit Washtenaw County Thursday knocking power out for thousands of homes and businesses. Downtown Ann Arbor serial assault suspect arraigned on criminal sexual conduct chargesA man suspected of committing a string of assaults against women in downtown Ann Arbor has been arraigned on several sexual assault charges. Pierre Antonio-Deshant Holloway, 35, was arraigned Tuesday, Aug. 10, on two felony warrants stemming from a string of sexual assaults committed against women walking alone in downtown Ann Arbor in mid-July. Pickleball passion: New business brings dedicated court, love of the sport to Ann ArborA recently opened pickleball court in Ann Arbor is bringing the sport โ and peopleโs passion for it โ to the area. $20M power grid upgrade coming as Ann Arbor prepares for electrified futureMajor power grid upgrades are needed if Ann Arbor is going to shift to all-electric buildings and electric cars powered by 100% renewable energy.
mlive.com5-story Fairfield Inn and Suites slated to rise in downtown Ann Arbor
ANN ARBOR, MI โ A five-story hotel planned on the west side of downtown Ann Arbor is now approved for development. โItโll be catered to the overnight business and leisure traveler,โ Samir Patel, senior manager of development for Hawkeye Hotels, said of the proposed Fairfield Inn and Suites. The new hotel planned in downtown Ann Arbor is one of the companyโs most-exciting and high-profile projects, he said. During construction, sidewalk access along Huron Street will be maintained to the greatest extent possible, Van Ryn said. MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:Downtown Ann Arbor on the rise: Latest look at development projects taking shapePlans submitted for 561-unit housing development on Ann Arborโs north sideA birdโs-eye view of Ann Arborโs north side housing boomAnn Arbor OKs high-density zoning for transit corridors, but not without drama3 more apartment buildings proposed on Ann Arborโs west side
mlive.comAnn Arbor OKs high-density zoning for transit corridors, but not without drama
ANN ARBOR, MI โ Ann Arborโs future tallest building could rise somewhere outside of downtown under new high-density zoning approved for the cityโs major transit corridors. After much debate and amid allegations some council members are doing favors for campaign donors, City Council voted 8-3 to approve the new TC1 zoning Tuesday night, July 6. The three who voted against the TC1 zoning were Kathy Griswold, Jeff Hayner and Ali Ramlawi. Hayner, D-1st Ward, pushed back on that, saying money can be made by developers anywhere in Ann Arbor. MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:Ann Arbor mayor proposes 20-year tax to fight climate changeNearly $50K in private funding raised for future downtown Ann Arbor central parkA birdโs-eye view of Ann Arborโs north side housing boomAnn Arbor City Council to hold hearing on Jeff Haynerโs use of the n-wordDowntown Ann Arbor on the rise: Latest look at development projects taking shape
mlive.comAnn Arbor Muffler fire suspected to have started in a vehicle
ANN ARBOR, MI - Crews in Ann Arbor responded to a structure fire Monday morning at a local auto care shop. Engines 1- 3 of the Ann Arbor Fire Department were alerted at 6:12 a.m. on Monday, July 5 for an automatic fire alarm at Ann Arbor Muffler at 2333 Jackson Ave., according to the department. Engine 1-3 arrived to find a commercial structure fire with heavy fire showing from one of the service bays. Firefighters were able to quickly extinguish the fire, according to the department, which was suspected to have started in one of the vehicles and spread to the building. More from MLiveA birdโs-eye view of Ann Arborโs north side housing boomWater main break damage closes Maple Road in Ann Arbor until AugustTeacherโs 51-year career wraps up at the Ann Arbor elementary she attended as a childAnn Arbor dry cleaner faces wrecking ball under pollution cleanup planGreat Clips location coming to Ann Arbor areaKnightโs expands with market on Ann Arborโs south sidePhotographerโs basement studio ruined by flooding in Ypsilanti neighborhoodSonic Lunch returning to downtown Ann Arbor in AugustIllustrator unveils conceptual design for downtown Ann Arbor central parkFree waste pick-up available to Ann Arbor residents affected by floodingDowntown Ann Arborโs west side rebranded as cityโs Creative DistrictAmazing drone video and photos of Fourth of July fireworks from across MichiganHealthy Streets initiative given immediate OK by Ann Arbor councilYpsilanti requesting public insight on new affordable housing project
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