The City of Farmington Hills Planning Commission hosted an open house for its 2024 Master Plan to plan for its future for the "Next 50" on November 16, 2023.

The full set of open house posters is available for your review at the bottom of the page.

What is Placemaking?

Placemaking is literally about “making a place.” People sometimes refer to feeling a “sense of place” - which can be either positive or negative. A sense of place reflects the way people interact with a space – and can include aesthetics, economic, cultural, historical elements.

The Planning Commission, informed by suggestions from the community, has discussed many ideas to enhance the City of Farmington Hills through placemaking activities in certain areas, such as along Orchard Lake Road, 12 Mile Road, Grand River and other areas by including some of the following:

• Artwork - See Public Art Poster
• Gateways and signage - See Gateways ("Placemaking & Civic Identity") Poster
• Specific city branding throughout the community
• Public and community gathering spaces, including pocket parks that may be on private property that is accessible to the public, like shopping centers
• Sidewalk amenities such as street furniture, sidewalk games, bike service stations, etc.
• Sidewalk cafes/outdoor dining
• Lighting
• Creation of a social district
• Activation of vacant/public spaces
• Ongoing or temporary/pop-up events

Placemaking is important because:

• People are drawn to places with a strong sense of place and identity
• Placemaking can improve physical and mental health.
  • Studies have shown that spending time in green spaces can reduce stress, improve mood, and boost cognitive function.
  • Public spaces that are designed for people to be active and socialize can also help to reduce obesity and improve cardiovascular health.
• Placemaking promotes social interaction and community cohesion.
  • Public spaces provide opportunities for people to meet and interact with each other, which can help to build stronger communities.
  • Placemaking initiatives that encourage people to gather and celebrate together can help to create a sense of belonging and identity.
• Businesses are more likely to locate in areas with attractive public spaces. Placemaking projects can also attract tourists and visitors, which can boost the local economy.
• Well-lit and well-maintained public spaces supported by the community can help to reduce crime and make people feel safer.
• Public spaces can be used to celebrate the unique culture and history of a community.

How are public art programs funded?

Public arts plans can be supported through a variety of approaches: general fund support, business district contributions, sponsorships and donations, grants - and often funding is through a combination of these sources. Many communities also use a “percent for art” policy where a percentage of a capital improvement project is set aside for public art. This can also apply to large-scale private development, where a percentage of the overall cost of construction is dedicated to the acquisition and commissioning of public artworks.