.:1984: DEVELOPMENT
In 1984, 50% of the total land within the downtown district was identified as “vacant” land inside all zoning categories. Seventeen percent of the remaining land within the downtown district was designated for recreational use. Only 25% of the land, which was designated for commercial or industrial use in the master plan, was being used for those purposes.
From the 1950’s onward, development occurred throughout the Township. Light industrial property developed along Haggerty, Maple, Richardson, Oakley Park and Martin roads. However, the lack of strong utility infrastructure and the distance from the interstate system put Commerce Township at a competitive disadvantage with neighboring communities, which was reflected in the relative drop in the value of industrial properties. Shortly after the adoption of the initial plan in 1984, the DDA began the design and installation of a water system in the DDA. The system is designed to serve the entire township.
In the 20 years since the DDA was established, the number of residents in the downtown district has significantly increased. The estimated population in the downtown district in 1984 was approximately 90 residents. In 2003, the population had grown to more than 600. Once the water system was well along, the DDA then negotiated for the sale of a moth balled sewer plant on Welch Road. The DDA then began the design and installation of a sewer system in the DDA. The Plan for the sewer system is designed to service the entire township and approximately 75% of White Lake Township.
The northwest corner of 14 Mile and Haggerty Roads was beginning to be developed in the late 1980’s, and with the advent of sewer and water continues as a first class, big box commercial development today.
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