C-FACTS' Role in Detroit's Neighborhood Assessment and Investment Strategy

Background: C-FACTS collaborated with major entities such as General Motors, DTE Energy, Rock Ventures, and the Skillman Foundation to devise a pilot five-year neighborhood investment strategy for Detroit.

Key Steps Undertaken:

1. Data Analysis and Selection:

   • Comprehensive review of demographic, economic, employment, and housing trends to gain an understanding of the current landscape.
   • Delve into existing neighborhood plans and consult stakeholders to determine areas ripe for investment.

2. Strategic Development:

   • Formulated overarching goals, specific strategies, and ascertained resource requirements essential for the successful roll-out of the plan.
   • Enabled the involved partners to converge on a shared value statement that underscores their collective vision and mission for investment.

3. Target Area Selection:

   • Established a robust data-driven methodology to pinpoint a 40-block area in Detroit for focused investment, adhering to the collective shared value principles.
   • Architected a comprehensive $44 million strategic investment framework to guide allocation and utilization of funds.

4. Outcome-Focused Planning:

   • Developed measurable success metrics to continuously evaluate the effectiveness of the plan.
   • Formulated strategies and allocated budgetary resources to meet desired outcomes. The primary focal areas included:
     • Integration of education
     • Enhancement of neighborhood conditions
     • Boosting employment opportunities
     • Augmenting community safety

5. Alignment and Community Engagement:

   • Ensured that the investment plan dovetailed seamlessly with other ongoing investment initiatives. This alignment sought to maximize resource utilization and avoid duplicative efforts.
   • Leveraged existing community engagement endeavors with a community action alliance partner to foster a sense of collaboration and ownership among residents. This partnership will be instrumental in ensuring that community perspectives continue to shape the investment strategies.

Conclusion: C-FACTS' involvement in the Detroit Neighborhood Assessment and Investment Strategy is indicative of its commitment to data-driven decision-making, community-centered planning, and collaborative action. By uniting major stakeholders, understanding the intricacies of the Detroit landscape, and placing community engagement at the forefront, C-FACTS and its partners are paving the way for a transformative and impactful investment in Detroit's future.