Placemaking is highly valued in communities throughout Southeast Michigan, and especially to us at SEMCOG. We love gathering members to visit different communities and see the visions of peer elected officials and community leaders come to life. This is exactly what has happened and is still happening not only in Downtown Howell but throughout the community. On August 21, we were treated to a very informative tour of downtown Howell to learn about the community, visions that have come to fruition, and plans that are still in the works.
Our first stop was the Depot Parking Lot. Planned enhancements for this space include more parking space, a pergola with a seating area, and a beautiful ice rink! We look forward to these, but Howell already has a new park at the end of this parking area that is great for play and relaxation.
Erv Suida, Howell City Manager, giving a presentation on the plans for Depot Parking Lot area
I hope you take the chance to visit in person. When you do, you’ll see a fairy garden comes to life! This park also offers slides, gnomes, a maze, and beautiful flower gardens courtesy of the Howell Garden Club. It isn’t just a gorgeous place to be, but a true work of community. Much of this park was funded by grants and donations from the community. In addition to monetary contributions, the park was a labor of love by community organizations and residents. You can feel the love when you are walking through!
SEMCOG members touring the park
The next stop, Peanut Row, is another a great example of placemaking. This alley way was repurposed into a fun place to shop, eat, or sit back and enjoy the atmosphere. The area provides not only a diverse local shopping experience, but an experience of art and truly something to see! When touring this area, it was incredible to see the staff of Howell beam with pride when talking about this project and the local businesses nearby. Despite the pandemic, there is a very low vacancy rate in Downtown Howell. This continuity speaks to the sense of community that exists in Howell, truly something to be proud of!
Peanut Row
Last but certainly not least, a treasured gem of the community is the Historic Livingston County Courthouse. This building was built in 1890s, and much to my surprise had most of its originality. The restoration of this building is truly impressive, from the court room itself to the flooring throughout. The courthouse is a great community asset, from swearing-in ceremonies, to weddings, to the lawn out front being used for play and picnics. There is much to see in downtown Howell, and we can’t wait to come back and experience what they have in store for the future!
Jan Lobur, City of Howell, Councilmember, giving us information about the historic courthouse
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