Sylvania nears purchase of land for gateway corridor project

5/9/2007

A quarter-acre of land isn't much. But Sylvania is on the verge of acquiring a parcel in a "very strategic location in town" that could help the city develop the kind of gateway corridor concept it has envisioned between U.S. 23 and downtown, Mayor Craig Stough said.

His comments came following the Sylvania City Council's decision Monday to buy the property at 5952 W. Alexis Rd. from Forest and Erma Shumway for $36,800.

The land is at U.S. 23 and Monroe Street, near the former site of the city's water tower that at one time was a local landmark. Its location makes it ideal for enhancing an entryway project or for other purposes, Mr. Stough said.

The gateway concept is one that aims to make downtown Sylvania and surrounding areas more appealing to would-be shoppers and visitors with a redesign of the business community.

The city has been working with an Ann Arbor consultant on ideas for enhancing the area through better roads, lighting, landscaping, and other street improvements. A house on the property that was damaged by fire a few months ago will be razed by the current property owners, city officials said.