DOWNTOWN ANN ARBOR

The One North Main building has new ownership.

ANN ARBOR, MI – 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.

The city is partnering with the DDA to expand its EV charging network downtown.

Free concerts are scheduled for Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. between June 2 and August 25.

Celebrate summer in the heart of downtown Ann Arbor.

The Taste of Ann Arbor returns with live music, kids activities and plenty of food this June.

Street closures will resume in the downtown area on Thursday.

The event is organized by the Michigan Ovarian Cancer Alliance.

With that said, there are a couple of new joints to check out in Ann Arbor. This café 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 “Hello, Ann Arbor”: Each week, we deliver the big headlines straight to your inbox via our Friday 3@3 Ann Arbor newsletter. MORE ‘HELLO, ANN ARBOR’:Hello, Ann Arbor: Government dysfunction spreads west; fighting darkness with FOIAHello, Ann Arbor: Big plans afoot for Briarwood Mall area; save the bees, don’t 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 Stadium’s $41M scoreboard projectHello, Ann Arbor: Common Grill to stay open; the Dexter tornado 10 years laterHello, Ann Arbor: Hash Bash plans for 50th; Dimo’s could be yours for $1MSchool board finally meets; Michigan football benefactor dies: Ann Arbor headlines Feb. 25-March 3

City Council approved the expansion of the Main Street Ann Arbor Social District earlier this week.

ANN ARBOR, MI -- Downtown Ann Arbor’s social district — an area where visitors can walk around with alcoholic drinks — 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 “one or two” 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,” Andrade said. Read more from The Ann Arbor News:New restaurant opening in former Banfield’s space in Ann ArborFederal judge dismisses excessive force lawsuit against Ann Arbor police officersAnn Arbor’s $15M plan to ramp up street repairs means more construction coming

Curious where people are dining right now in Ann Arbor?

On Sunday, giant puppets and revelers paraded between South University Avenue and William Street.

Mad Hatters, Cheshire cats and playing card guards came out in droves on Friday as part of the annual Fool Moon celebration.

Several events are happening this weekend which means road closures and extra traffic.

Active Against ALS is partnering with Phi Delta Theta, a fraternity at the University of Michigan, to bring back a fundraising Box Car Derby to downtown Ann Arbor on April 10.

Starting May 5, several roads will be closed downtown so that diners and shoppers can stroll the streets.

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 city’s 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 hockey’s ‘old veteran’ ready for one last ride in NCAA TournamentMichigan redistricting was fraught.

ANN ARBOR, MI – An Ann Arbor home sustained a sizable amount of damage when it was struck by lightning during Wednesday’s 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

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 ‘snitch’ invoking Fifth Amendment in Gov.

Members and supporters of the Tree Town chapter of Take Back the Night will take to the streets of Ann Arbor after its annual rally against sexual violence on April 7.

Here's which sidewalks and roads will be under construction this year, according to the City.

ANN ARBOR – 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. “A Thousand Ways, Part Two: An Encounter” opened Tuesday, March 8, at the University of Michigan Museum of Art. But this time guests meet in person in the museum’s glass-walled gallery. The in-person exhibit allows for a different take on the series’ 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 A2SF’s website.

Organizers of the annual event have shared that this year’s fairs will take place between July 21-23.

Between 2-6 p.m., job seekers can stop by Ann Arbor Regent Hotel & Suites, at 2455 Carpenter Rd., to apply in person.

The 60th Ann Arbor Film Festival will take place online and in person.

Downtown residents are needed to fill open positions on Ann Arbor’s Citizens Advisory Council.

Until the end of March, visitors to the Main Street cannabis retailer can drop off new winter essentials including socks, gloves, hats and warm sweatpants.

Get your heart pumping and race around Tree Town during the annual Shamrocks and Shenanigans 5K on Sunday, March 13.

Sections of two streets in downtown Ann Arbor will be closed this week due to the need for crane work on construction projects.

ANN ARBOR, MI -- Whether you drink Miller Lite or brew your own stouts, one Ann Arbor teacher’s new book is set to teach you about Michigan’s boozy history. Patti Smith, a teacher with the Ann Arbor Public Schools, recently published “Michigan Beer: A Heady History,” her fifth traditionally published book and fourth historical book. Smith has also written “Vanishing Ann Arbor,” “Downtown Ann Arbor” and “A History of the People’s Food Co-op Ann Arbor.”“Michigan Beer” starts with Michigan immigrants in the mid-1880s and goes through what she calls “the new wave” 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 “Michigan Beer” was different than she expected.

Musician, author, humanitarian and activist Tori Amos will perform at the historic Michigan Theater on May 26.

Located at 121 E. Liberty St., Cinnaholic boasts of ginormous signature rolls, seasonal favorites and Tree Town-inspired bites, like the “Ypsi Berry” and the “Go Blue.”

A petition has been started on charge.org in an attempt to gather support to get the fried fromage back on the menu.

Since the pandemic started, Ann Arbor DDA has supported businesses in the area with several initiatives.

Tree Town residents can park their cars at the Ann Ashley Structure for free until Saturday.

Oxford Companies announced the launch of the Oxford Instant Office Simple Agreement for Future Equity program for local tech startups.

Main Street Ann Arbor is asking community members for their input regarding future road and block closures.

ANN ARBOR, MI -- Downtown Ann Arbor’s Which Wich Superior Sandwiches has permanently closed, according to a sign pasted on the restaurant’s 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 “permanently closed” offered no further explanation. Which Wich Superior Sandwiches did not respond to a request for comment.

ANN ARBOR, MI — Mozhgan Savabieasfahani, an anti-Israel activist and staunch critic of Ann Arbor’s City Council, said she’s 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. “Why does this City Council fill the streets with luxury housing while doing nothing about public housing?” she said. MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:Ann Arbor mayor pro tem announces she won’t seek reelectionAnn Arbor is one of Michigan’s great cities, so why is its government such a mess? Downtown Ann Arbor’s 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

ANN ARBOR, MI — Downtown Ann Arbor’s third two-way protected bikeway is now open to the public. The new north-south thoroughfare for cyclists runs along the east side of Division Street through the middle of downtown.

ANN ARBOR, MI – 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 who’s following his dreams in opening his own studio. Foote, 32, opened the doors of One Eleven Salon on Dec. 7 — just in time for the holidays. 4-story housing development proposed near Trader Joe’s in Ann ArborA major new housing development is in the planning stages near Trader Joe’s in Ann Arbor.

ANN ARBOR, MI — 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 who’s following his dreams in opening his own studio.

“The One Eleven team is full of passion, education, creativity and so much more, and we’re excited to announce our opening in the heart of Ann Arbor,” said owner Addison Foote.

ANN ARBOR, MI — Downtown Ann Arbor’s holiday pop-up art gallery will be hosting a ‘Meet the Artists’ day after adding seven new artists to the event. “The gallery has helped these local artists a lot and it feels so good to be a part of that,” said Moran. While visiting, guests have the opportunity to support Ann Arbor’s 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.”The 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 Arbor’s plan to improve State and Hill streetsDense ‘new urban’ 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

The blaze is currently under investigation as either being incendiary—deliberately ignited—or by people trying to cook or stay warm, officials said.

Here’s a sneak peek at the deals being offered during Friday's Midnight Madness, Moonlight Madness and Festive Friday events.

See which businesses are participating in Ann Arbor's new social district.

The announcement was made on Thanksgiving through social media, noting that Loomi Cafe’s last day would be Friday, Dec. 24.

Celebrate the holidays at Palio on Sunday.

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.

The owners of Collected Works in the Kerrytown neighborhood will close their shop after the upcoming holiday season.

Crazy Wisdom Bookstore owners Bill Zirinsky and Ruth Schekter announced that they will either sell or close the iconic bookstore on Feb. 15, 2022

Here’s where you can have a hauntingly good time around Ann Arbor.

ANN ARBOR, MI – 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 “last mile” 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 OK’d 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.

Parts of Division, Catherine and Ann streets will close until after 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 10.

Trick-or-Treating returns to downtown Ann Arbor this year.

ANN ARBOR, MI — 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

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 Arbor’s Greenbelt land preservation program helped with the purchase. The location “makes 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.

ANN ARBOR, MI — Ann Arbor’s 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. “The year-long project will include new fencing, replacing turf and allowing the turf to establish over the winter and spring,” 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 “provoked” people or other dogs, which can result in $500 tickets for owners.

ANN ARBOR, MI — The enforceability of Ann Arbor’s 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 city’s 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.

ANN ARBOR, MI — 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 he’s excited about the return of the service.

Drivers will run into congestion on Friday as the 20th annual Mayor’s Green Fair closes three streets.

The city's Green Fair will take over Main Street on Friday evening.

Of Rice & Men is here to stay.

U-M students say they've been waiting for Target to open its downtown location since the start of the 2021 fall semester.

A2GO will officially kick off on Oct. 11.

ANN ARBOR, MI — As Ann Arbor continues to see more and more population and housing growth, another new condo development is proposed downtown. “It’s going to look a bit unique and bit more modern and pretty nice for downtown,” he said. As for whether he’s still bullish on the Ann Arbor condo market, “Things are really starting to pick up after a year of not much happening due to COVID and so on,” 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

A2 Artoberfest will take over the Old Fourth Ward and Kerrytown in October.

ANN ARBOR, MI — 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 council’s 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 asphalt‘Literally power to the people.’ Ann Arbor group gearing up for ballot campaignAnn Arbor home of late Black poet Robert Hayden could get historic designation

ANN ARBOR, MI — A group of local landlords is suing the city of Ann Arbor over a new renter rights law. ‘They don’t give a damn about us.’ 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 pollution‘Literally power to the people.’ Ann Arbor group gearing up for ballot campaignAnn Arbor gives final OK to relaxing rules for home-based businesses

ANN ARBOR, MI — Ann Arbor’s 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. “A lot of the food choices that we highlight here can potentially impact the cost of the food as well,” he said. “And I want to make sure that we identify that.”Those 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 Arbor’s carbon-neutrality planDowntown Ann Arbor lot long envisioned as future green space gets new coat of asphalt‘Literally power to the people.’ 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

ANN ARBOR, MI – 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.

Free ride service A2GO is turning to the public to name one of its autonomous shuttles.

On Thursday, a water main break closed South Seventh Street between West Jefferson and West Liberty.

Ann Arbor SPARK’s a2Tech360 will be held October 1 through 8 online and in various in-person locations throughout the city.

ANN ARBOR, MI - Years of new housing developments have reaped expected rewards for Ann Arbor’s 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 Arbor’s rising housing costs. “Ann Arbor is a walkable, bikeable, and diverse community with a great downtown and great neighborhoods.,” he said to MLive/The Ann Arbor News.

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 Arbor’s rising housing costs. “Ann Arbor is a walkable, bikeable, and diverse community with a great downtown and great neighborhoods.,” he said. “We work hard to maintain a high quality of life and so we’re not surprised to see people moving into town and helping to grow our community.”Others: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.

ANN ARBOR, MI – 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 — and people’s passion for it — 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.

ANN ARBOR, MI — A five-story hotel planned on the west side of downtown Ann Arbor is now approved for development. “It’ll be catered to the overnight business and leisure traveler,” 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 company’s 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 Arbor’s north sideA bird’s-eye view of Ann Arbor’s north side housing boomAnn Arbor OKs high-density zoning for transit corridors, but not without drama3 more apartment buildings proposed on Ann Arbor’s west side

ANN ARBOR, MI — Ann Arbor’s future tallest building could rise somewhere outside of downtown under new high-density zoning approved for the city’s 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 bird’s-eye view of Ann Arbor’s north side housing boomAnn Arbor City Council to hold hearing on Jeff Hayner’s use of the n-wordDowntown Ann Arbor on the rise: Latest look at development projects taking shape

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 bird’s-eye view of Ann Arbor’s north side housing boomWater main break damage closes Maple Road in Ann Arbor until AugustTeacher’s 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 areaKnight’s expands with market on Ann Arbor’s south sidePhotographer’s 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 Arbor’s west side rebranded as city’s 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

ANN ARBOR, MI — Just across the Huron River from downtown Ann Arbor and a short ride up Pontiac Trail, a big transformation of the landscape is underway. If condo sales at North Oaks are any indication, demand for housing on Ann Arbor’s north side is still strong, said Brooks Belhart, a sales manager for the Toll Brothers development. The North Oaks development is probably about 65-70% complete now and there’s “absolutely” enough demand to get it to full buildout, Belhart said. Pulte markets them as low-maintenance living minutes from the heart of downtown Ann Arbor and near recreational activities. “A lot of the issues with traffic in Ann Arbor are actually the result of people who work in Ann Arbor and can’t find housing here, and so I welcome that,” she said.

ANN ARBOR, MI — Six candidates are in the running to become Ann Arbor’s next downtown leader. There were 60 applicants for the Downtown Development Authority executive director position and six semifinalists have been selected for interviews, DDA Board Chair Jessica Letaw announced Wednesday, June 30. Because the candidates have requested confidentiality, their names won’t be released until they have been notified and accepted invitations to do public interviews, Letaw said. After the first interviews, the search committee will select finalists for a second round of interviews, Letaw said. DDA staff will be able to provide feedback on the finalists prior to the DDA board considering selecting a new executive director Aug. 4, Letaw said.

ANN ARBOR, MI - The Ann Arbor City Council has approved $2.7 million, including about $1.3 million in federal funds, for street restoration and bike lane installation on Plymouth Road. Additionally, Plymouth Road’s lanes will be slightly narrowed to facilitate a 1.2-mile long westbound bicycle lane to Maiden Lane and Moore Street. The federal funds are beging devoted to the project’s $1.94 million construction costs. For more information on upcoming road closures and construction throughout Ann Arbor, click here for the city website. Read more from The Ann Arbor News:Downtown Ann Arbor road closures coming for People Friendly Streets projectAnn Arbor officials promise downtown road construction won’t interfere with Art FairHealthy Streets initiative given immediate OK by Ann Arbor council

ANN ARBOR, MI — A developer who announced plans earlier this year for a large housing development on Ann Arbor’s north side is now officially seeking city approval. Within the overall development, there would be 120 one-bedroom units, 344 two-bedroom units and 97 units with at least three bedrooms, plans show. Robertson Brothers is teaming up with Lansing-based DTN Management Co. on the development dubbed The Village of Ann Arbor. The team has submitted a separate annexation petition for the land, most of which is an Ann Arbor Township island within the city’s ultimate borders. MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:$15M plan unveiled for 102 new apartments in southeast Ann ArborIllustrator unveils conceptual design for downtown Ann Arbor central parkAnn Arbor’s West Park kicked out the jams in the 1960s -- then the city shut it downDowntown Ann Arbor on the rise: Latest look at development projects taking shapeNeighbor promises lawsuit against Ann Arbor for approving $100M housing complex

ANN ARBOR, MI — Local conceptual illustrator Stephan Trendov has created several design concepts over the past decade envisioning Ann Arbor’s future Center of the City downtown central park and civic commons. “I want this to inspire the people of Ann Arbor to bring their magic. “One of my greatest fears is creating a space for your stereotypical Ann Arbor white townie and to exclude racially diverse communities in particular,” she said. “My goal in life before I die, I want to make Ann Arbor the kind of college town that it should be, No. MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:From food carts to live music, Ann Arbor ponders ways to launch future central parkAnn Arbor planning group begins task of envisioning downtown central parkAnn Arbor’s West Park kicked out the jams in the 1960s -- then the city shut it downDowntown Ann Arbor on the rise: Latest look at development projects taking shapeAnn Arbor celebrates opening of community center at new Housing Commission complex

ANN ARBOR, MI — Ann Arbor Summer Festival events scheduled for Friday night are canceled due to inclement weather, the festival has announced. Instead, the Kishi Bashi concert will stream live from The Ark exclusively to ticket buyers, a festival spokesperson said. This marks the second night in a row Summer Festival events were canceled. Due to projected thunderstorms, the festival canceled Thursday’s events, including performances by Dani Darling and Jive Colossus, and a showing of the movie Crazy Rich Asians. MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:Ann Arbor Summer Festival to host private performances and spontaneous concertsAnn Arbor music festival looking for dancers, musicians and comedians‘Temping’ offers immersive theater experience at Ann Arbor Summer FestivalDowntown Ann Arbor’s west side rebranded as city’s Creative District$50K crowdfunding campaign aims to bring more public art to downtown Ann Arbor

ANN ARBOR, MI – The Ann Arbor City Council has voted to make race-based hairstyle discrimination officially illegal in the city. Ann Arbor makes race-based hairstyle discrimination illegalRace-based hairstyle discrimination is now officially illegal in Ann Arbor. Jeff Hayner’s use of n-word basis of new reprimand drafted by Ann Arbor council committeeA majority on the Ann Arbor City Council will continue its condemnation of offensive language from Council Member Jeff Hayner, D-1st Ward. Water main break causes Ann Arbor boil water advisory, road closureThe city of Ann Arbor has issued a precautionary boil water advisory for some Ann Arbor residents after a water main break. Many downtown Ann Arbor businesses keep mask requirements even as state lifts restrictionsAs the last of the statewide mandates requiring Michigan residents to wear masks indoors are rolled back, many downtown Ann Arbor businesses are continuing their mask policies - at least for unvaccinated customers.

ANN ARBOR, MI — The Ann Arbor Art Center plans to bring more public art to downtown building walls and alleys with the help of a new crowdfunding campaign. Several new murals were installed downtown last year after the Art Center raised over $50,000 via an online crowdfunding campaign, with the MEDC kicking in a $50,000 match. “Support talented artists and invest in our vibrant community by donating to this public art initiative. “In 2020, the transformative A2AC Murals project was a huge success and completed 10 separate murals throughout the downtown,” Marie Klopf, Art Center president and CEO, said in a statement. MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:Downtown Ann Arbor’s west side rebranded as city’s Creative DistrictAnn Arbor makes race-based hairstyle discrimination illegal21-day challenge aimed at ending racism and inequity in Washtenaw CountyLegal settlement may resolve long dispute over Huron River phosphorus dischargesHealthy Streets initiative given immediate OK by Ann Arbor council

ANN ARBOR, MI — Ann Arbor has agreed to a legal settlement with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy regarding phosphorus discharges into the Huron River. City Council voted unanimously to OK the agreement Monday night, June 21, in hopes of resolving a long series of disputes and legal actions over state-imposed phosphorus limits. The new phosphorus limits for the four communities are outlined in charts in the settlement agreement. The Ann Arbor Wastewater Treatment Plant, 49 South Dixboro Road, and the Huron River in Ann Arbor Township on June 22, 2021.Jacob Hamilton | The Ann Arbor NewsAn EGLE spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment Tuesday. MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:Judge affirms cleanup order for Ann Arbor dioxane plume, setting up future appealAnn Arbor makes race-based hairstyle discrimination illegalDowntown Ann Arbor’s west side rebranded as city’s Creative DistrictMore Spin scooters coming to Ann Arbor under approved renewal from city councilWater main break causes Ann Arbor boil water advisory, road closure

ANN ARBOR, MI — Race-based hairstyle discrimination is now officially illegal in Ann Arbor. The city’s Human Rights Commission recommended council approval of the ordinance update, referred to as The CROWN Act. Before the changes OK’d Monday night, Ann Arbor’s longstanding non-discrimination ordinance already prohibited discrimination based on factors such as race and sexual orientation. At a recent Human Rights Commission meeting, Radina cited the findings of a workplace study about hair discrimination. MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:21-day challenge aimed at ending racism and inequity in Washtenaw CountyAnn Arbor-area leaders want to make racial equity a focus with human services fundingDowntown Ann Arbor’s west side rebranded as city’s Creative DistrictAnn Arbor music festival looking for dancers, musicians and comediansDowntown Ann Arbor on the rise: Latest look at development projects taking shape

ANN ARBOR, MI -- An Ann Arbor father finished painting a tribute to his children, just in time for Father’s Day on Sunday, June 20. Jeremy Gibb, 50, painted the backyard mural of his four children — ages 23, 21, 19 and 17 — on the rear wall of his neighbor’s garage. Gibb first asked for permission to paint his neighbor’s garage in 2017. The neighbors, Kristina and Spencer McFarland, said they’re happy Gibb has done something creative with the 1920s garage. Read more from The Ann Arbor News:Downtown Ann Arbor’s west side rebranded as city’s Creative DistrictMichigan’s mask mandates, capacity limits are over – here are the remaining restrictionsAward-winning actor to lead University of Michigan’s musical theater department

ANN ARBOR, MI-- The Ann Arbor Third Place MusicFest is looking for artists to perform during its August event. The festival partners local businesses with artists to celebrate the third place. Performing artists can be a solo or group act and are not limited to music, but can also include dance, comedy, theatre and poetry. To apply to perform at the festival click here. READ MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:Downtown Ann Arbor’s west side rebranded as city’s Creative DistrictAward-winning actor to lead University of Michigan’s musical theater department21-day challenge aimed at ending racism and inequity in Washtenaw County23 retailers, Briarwood Mall set to hire at upcoming job fair

ANN ARBOR, MI — Following the painting of several new public art murals in the last year, the west side of downtown Ann Arbor is undergoing a rebranding. Colorful banners now hang from new light poles along both sides of First Street, between William and Ann streets, designating the area as Ann Arbor’s Creative District. “This is so exciting for Ann Arbor,” said Marie Klopf, president and CEO of the Ann Arbor Art Center, located at 117 W. Liberty St. on the west side of downtown. “Downtown Ann Arbor continues to grow both geographically and in density. The branded banners showing up now are “to showcase existing works of art in an exciting and emerging Creative District in downtown Ann Arbor,” the center states.

ANN ARBOR, MI — The United Way of Washtenaw County has launched a new 21-day Equity Challenge to build community awareness of the ways bias, prejudice, privilege and oppression show up in people’s daily lives and work. Each morning, participants will receive an email prompt with readings, videos and podcasts, the United Way stated in a news release. Right now in Washtenaw County, it does, according to the United Way. “United Way can’t advance our vision alone,” President and CEO Pam Smith said in a statement. “We need partners at every level of the county to work with us.”The 21-day Equity Challenge offers the entire community an opportunity to collaborate with the United Way to identify actionable steps for ending racism and inequity throughout Washtenaw County, Smith said.

ANN ARBOR, MI -- Literati Bookstore will be hosting a virtual book launch of “In the Heights: Finding Home” on June 15, featuring co-authors Lin-Manuel Miranda, Quiara Alegría Hudes and Jeremy McCarter. The book looks at the creation of recently released “In the Heights,” a movie adaption of the musical by the same name created by Miranda. Miranda is most known for writing and starring in “Hamilton,” a musical about founding father Alexander Hamilton. The event will include a conversation with Miranda, Hudes and McCarter, with moderation by director and producer America Ferrera. John Ganiard, the event director for Literati, said virtual events like these, sprung up from pandemic restrictions, have opened doors for independent bookstores.

ANN ARBOR, MI — There’s demand for more housing in downtown Ann Arbor that isn’t catered toward University of Michigan students, according to a recent study. Ann Arbor sets sights on developing affordable housing at three more locationsSmithGroup, a consultant working with the Housing Commission on plans for affordable housing in the downtown area, retained Bowen last July to do the housing needs assessment. “We wanted to make sure that we understood the downtown housing market demand since we have many projects in the pipeline. Within the rest of Ann Arbor, the number of renter-occupied households is expected to increase by 408 (1.7%). MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:Empty lot by Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor listed for sale for close to $600,000Mapped: Downtown Ann Arbor developments of the past two decadesTimeline: Ann Arbor’s downtown housing boom and what’s to comeBefore-and-after views of downtown Ann Arbor’s dramatic transformationAnn Arbor’s small-town look fading as downtown reaches toward sky

ANN ARBOR, MI — Ann Arbor officials are still divided on whether to allow dedicated short-term rental properties such as Airbnb houses in residential neighborhoods. The regulations await final approval May 3 and they could grant “legal non-conforming status” to 120 or more short-term rental properties in residential areas. This map shows the locations of some dedicated short-term rental properties in Ann Arbor neighborhoods as of April 5, 2021. Others argue many short-term rental properties were legally operating in neighborhoods before the city tried to ban them and the city’s previous rules for rental properties didn’t distinguish between short-term and long-term rentals, so existing short-term rentals should be allowed to continue. MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:Downtown upgrades planned to coincide with new Ann Arbor affordable housingAnn Arbor council unanimously supports developing unarmed 911 response programHow they voted: Ann Arbor City Council vote breakdown for March 2021Ann Arbor administrator tells central park group to temper funding expectationsDowntown Ann Arbor gets new street mural ahead of FoolMoon event

ANN ARBOR, MI — Ann Arbor is moving forward with developing an unarmed public safety response program to have non-police professionals respond to certain 911 calls. The availability of unarmed responders for mental health crises would be a step in the right direction, Jackson said. They called the Community Mental Health crisis response team rather than police, she said. “It’s very important to understand the percentage of the jail population that’s there because of a mental health problem,” Griswold said. MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:Women who sued Ann Arbor police for breaking down their door get $50K in settlementAnn Arbor administrator tells central park group to temper funding expectationsDowntown Ann Arbor gets new street mural ahead of FoolMoon eventGallup Park trail pathway closes for improvementsCity withheld police records about Ann Arbor official and ex-senator, citing privacy