City Council approves Meijer and townhome development at 33500 West 7 Mile Road

The Livonia City Council held a regular meeting on February 10, 2025, where they discussed a significant development project involving a new Meijer grocery store and a 102-unit multifamily residential townhome complex at 33500 West 7 Mile Road. The council reviewed a general development agreement necessary for the project to proceed.

Councilman Scott Morgan introduced the agreement, emphasizing that it is a standard procedure for larger developments. He noted that the project had already received prior approval and that the law and planning departments were finalizing the legal details. However, Councilwoman Budzinski expressed her concerns about the request to allow the grocery store to be built before the townhomes. She highlighted that the city’s ordinance requires concurrent development, with 30% of the townhomes underway by the time the Meijer store is completed. Budzinski stated that making exceptions to these rules before the project has even started could set a concerning precedent.

Councilman Donovic supported the project, pointing out the long-standing vacancy of the site and the need for improved stormwater management. He argued that the project would not only eliminate blight but also enhance the community with new housing. He emphasized the importance of considering the logistics and safety of managing two major construction projects simultaneously.

Councilwoman Toye mentioned ongoing efforts to address traffic light issues in the area, indicating that the county is involved in resolving these concerns. The planning director reassured the council that the agreement includes safety measures and performance benchmarks to ensure timely completion of the townhomes.

The council ultimately recognized the importance of the development for the community, balancing the need for adherence to ordinances with the practicalities of construction logistics. The meeting concluded with a commitment to monitor the project's progress and ensure compliance with established timelines.