Posted on 02/07/2005 9:58:50 PM PST by Dan from Michigan
East Village residents concerned, optimistic about area's future
By KRIS TURNER
The State News
As East Lansing officials work to reform the East Village, some students living in the area are wary of the city's motives and the consequences of such a large project.
According to city documents, plans for the area include creating buildings to house businesses, permanent residents and renters in addition to demolishing structures in place, including the Cedar Village apartment complex.
"I don't know if it goes with MSU's campus," said Heather Kerver, a zoology senior and East Village resident. "It seems like it would inconvenience a lot of students."
Kerver was not alone in her concerns - other East Village residents also expressed their worries about the plan.
"There is tension out there," said Anthony Dolney, a human biology junior. "By revamping the area, you bring in residents - students are still going to have parties."
City officials defended the plan, saying renters and permanent residents live together in other locations across East Lansing.
"I don't know of too many university communities where those two groups are segregated," said Councilmember Vic Loomis. "We don't want a segregated community."
To further relations between the rental populace and property owners, Loomis said there has to be a degree of mutual respect.
"We do that best by understanding each other's lifestyles," he said.
The master plan for the area is moving ahead, with possible approval by the East Village Planning Team on March 2.
City documents have cited several factors for the proposed redevelopment of the East Village. Among them is the concern over past behavior, such as riots.
"That is going to be one of the underlying reasons," Dolney said. "It is a good reason, but they are isolated incidents."
Despite the concern of some, others said a change could help to create a positive atmosphere.
"The East Village does need a revamp," said accounting senior and East Village resident Stephanie Kraus. "For how long it has been here, they definitely need to upgrade - we need more parking."
Although she wants updated facilities, Kraus said she hopes the environment will remain student-friendly.
"They need to make sure students can still live here and not have families try to move into the area," she said. "It will be a different atmosphere if you have non-college students living next to you."
A blighted status was imposed on the area by the City Council in December to help move its plans forward. Although the area is blighted, city officials are referring to the East Village as an area of community rehabilitation, revitalization and renewal.
"There is some confusion over the designation," said Tim Dempsey, a community and economic development administrator. "We all recognize that blighted can have a wide range of definitions."
Some students agreed that the term is unclear.
"I don't really know what it means," Kraus said. "We haven't gotten any memos or anything. The only thing I hear is from the paper or the TV news."
Had some good times at Cedar Village...:)
I have no patience for this crap.
Tell this 'chirping bird' to get a job in the real world and after three years of trying maybe her voice will be more appreciated.
I think a LOT of us had some good times at Cedar Village!
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