Episode 02: More Claims & More Facts
Welcome back to the A2 Pause The Plan-cast! In this episode, we delve deeper into the critical memo signed by 17 residents that raises fundamental questions about Ann Arbor's draft comprehensive plan (dated April 7th, 2025).
Topics Covered:
Questionable Growth Projections: Are the plan's targets for population jobs and housing realistic compared to regional forecasts?
Missing Infrastructure Costs: The letter highlights the lack of detailed cost analysis for necessary infrastructure, pointing to a potential multi-billion-dollar funding gap.
Affordability Assumptions: Does building more market-rate housing truly address affordability, or does research suggest otherwise?
Conflicts with City Goals: How might the proposed growth impact Ann Arbor's climate action and transportation objectives?
Planning Process & Conflicts: Concerns about meeting legal requirements for data and engagement, plus potential conflicts of interest on the planning commission.
We explore the core arguments of the residents' letter and why they believe the plan needs serious reconsideration based on its data, assumptions, and potential impacts.
Ann Arbor deserves what other forward-thinking cities expect and receive. That is a plan built on real community conversations, accurate data, and realistic projections which provide clear pathways to reach our common goals. 💙
From the Ann Arbor Neighborhood Network (A2N2) – A community-driven organization committed to enhancing local engagement and encouraging all Ann Arbor residents to actively participate in city life and governance.
