High-Rise Developer Confronts Angry Residents in Ann Arbor Meeting

Ann Arbor Residents Voice Concerns Over Proposed High-Rise Development

ANN ARBOR, MI — At a recent public meeting hosted by developer Ryan Talbot of Talbot Development, local musician Jerry Mack took to the stage with a clear message. Holding up a sign that read “Stop making Ann Arbor suck!” Mack expressed his opposition to the proposed 10-story high-rise that would replace the Live nightclub and Last Word bar in downtown Ann Arbor.

Mack, who has been part of the club’s popular “Geezer Happy Hour” featured in The New York Times, has lived in Ann Arbor for over 52 years. He described the city as unrecognizable due to the increasing number of high-rises. “It doesn’t look good. It looks ugly,” he said. “It’s no longer Anns’ Arbor.”

The meeting, held at Zingerman’s Greyline, drew a crowd of residents who were largely skeptical of the development. Talbot and his team presented plans for a building that would include a corner cafe, 280 apartments aimed at young professionals, and 42 affordable housing units. However, many attendees raised concerns about the height of the structure, the lack of onsite parking, and the potential loss of beloved local businesses.

Impact on Local Businesses

The project involves demolishing several key locations, including Live, Last Word, the HanJan Pocha House, and the Arbor Atrium. These spaces are not only important to the community but also serve as cultural and commercial hubs. HanJan Pocha House owner James Lee, who runs a Korean restaurant, expressed frustration over the sudden announcement of the plans. “It’s unfair we’re finding out now,” he said, emphasizing the value of his business to the Asian community and University of Michigan students.

Destination Ann Arbor, the local convention and visitors bureau, is also uncertain about its future. President and CEO Sarah Miller stated that any relocation would depend on the organization’s board, but she emphasized their commitment to remaining in Ann Arbor.

Talbot acknowledged the concerns and mentioned that discussions are ongoing with the owners of Live and Last Word. There is even a possibility that Last Word could become a rooftop cocktail lounge within the high-rise, while Live might find another location nearby.

Mixed Reactions from Residents

While older residents largely opposed the project, some younger residents supported it, citing the need for more housing in the area. Nishant Kheterpal, a PhD student who grew up in Ann Arbor, voiced concerns about losing Live and Last Word but appreciated the inclusion of affordable housing. However, his suggestion that the building should be taller drew boos from the crowd.

Talbot emphasized the sustainability features of the project, including an all-electric building with rooftop solar panels and the use of recycled steel. The affordable housing would target individuals earning up to 60% of the area median income.

Design and Community Input

The design includes a mix of townhouse-style apartments on the ground floor, with predominantly one-bedroom units and some studios and two-bedroom options. Studios could be as small as 325 square feet, with market-rate rents similar to other new developments in the area.

Talbot also addressed concerns about the cafe being integrated into the apartment building’s lobby. While some residents worried about privacy, others saw it as an opportunity for more retail space in the area.

Developer’s Perspective

Talbot, a Detroit-area native and University of Michigan graduate, shared a personal connection to Ann Arbor, where he met his wife. He encouraged residents to visit talbotdevco.com to learn more about his other projects in Grand Rapids.

Despite the challenges, Talbot remains committed to creating a development that benefits both residents and the broader community. “We’re trying to check as many boxes here to make this a project that works not just for the folks who live there, but also for the community,” he said.

As the discussion continues, the future of downtown Ann Arbor hangs in the balance, with residents and developers navigating the complex interplay between growth, preservation, and community needs.