Lansing Economic Area Partnership: Future Land Use Study

Exploring Growth Potential: Unveiling Future Land Use and Zoning Maps utilizing data from 36 Michigan Townships

I had the privilege of collaborating with Brent Forsberg at the Lansing Economic Area Partnership to develop "growth potential" maps based on future land use zoning density provided by 36 townships. This project covered the Tri-Counties of southern Michigan—Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham, encompassing a total of 61 townships. Through extensive communication, I managed to secure future land use zoning maps for 36 of these townships. Unfortunately, the remaining 25 townships did not have future land use zoning maps available, hindering the mapping of their future land use projections.

Displayed below is a link titled "Township Zoning Dashboard," which showcases the future land use growth potential across these 36 townships. After conducting an initial comprehensive analysis, the project's focus narrowed to seven townships with the highest population and growth potential: the City of Lansing, City of East Lansing, Delta Township, DeWitt Township, Bath Township, Meridian Township, and Delhi Township.

The accompanying maps below detail the acreage, and the minimum and maximum dwelling unit potentials based on the provided future land use zoning classifications. They also present current residential data and the overall growth potential percentage for each township. These maps offer a detailed examination of potential dwelling units by census tract—a more specific analysis compared to the broader overview based on zoning classification provided in the main dashboard. Additionally, links under each township description allow for an in-depth exploration of each area's development capacity by viewing the census tract dwelling unit potential breakdown.

1

City of Lansing

Total Acreage: 19,882

Minimum Dwelling Unit Potential: 98,820

Maximum Dwelling Unit Potential: 188,200

Current Dwelling Units (2021): 52,177

Growth potential Percentage: 260%

2

City of East Lansing

Total Acreage: 8,763

Dwelling Unit Potential:16,062

Current Dwelling Units (2021): 15,254

Growth potential Percentage: 5.3%

3

Delta Township

Total Acreage: 19,668

Minimum Dwelling Unit Potential: 11,748

Maximum Dwelling Unit Potential: 63,464

Current Dwelling Units (2021): 15,843

Growth potential Percentage: 301%

4

DeWitt Township

Total Acreage: 17,110

Minimum Dwelling Unit Potential: 16,345

Maximum Dwelling Unit Potential: 26,271

Current Dwelling Units (2021): 6,201

Growth potential Percentage: 323%

5

Bath Township

Total Acreage: 23,608

Minimum Dwelling Unit Potential: 18,004

Maximum Dwelling Unit Potential: 21,073

Current Dwelling Units (2021): 6,159

Growth potential Percentage: 242%

6

Meridian Township

Total Acreage: 19,024

Minimum Dwelling Unit Potential: 14,622

Maximum Dwelling Unit Potential: 41,763

Current Dwelling Units (2021): 19,938

Growth potential Percentage: 109%

7

Delhi Township

Total Acreage: 17,471

Minimum Dwelling Unit Potential: 41,175

Maximum Dwelling Unit Potential: 64,810

Current Dwelling Units (2021): 11,887

Growth potential Percentage: 445%

This study has significantly enhanced my proficiency in analyzing land use and interpreting zoning and building codes, crucial skills in urban development and management. My extensive engagement with city officials has not only deepened my understanding but also strengthened my capability to execute detailed project assessments and planning.

These experiences have refined my skills in meticulous detail orientation, proficient GIS application, and clear communication—qualities that are vital in any analytical or planning-focused role. My collaborative approach, coupled with a commitment to ethical standards and communication excellence, ensures that I am well-prepared to contribute effectively within any professional setting that values strategic development and thoughtful implementation of policies.

My background equips me with the tools to provide valuable insights and solutions in environments that require both technical understanding and practical application, making me a versatile professional ready to tackle various challenges in the dynamic field of development and planning.

Special Thanks!

I extend my gratitude to Eric Holt, Construction Project Management Professor at the University of Denver; Brent Forsberg, Founder & Owner of T.A. Forsberg, Inc.; and Emma Bostwick, Director of Business Attraction at LEAP (Lansing Area Economic Partnership), for providing me this opportunity. Their support and insights have been invaluable to this project and my professional growth.