Rockport Square Development Moving Forward

It’s been only a few years since the first portion of Rockport Square development finished on Detroit Avenue.

The second portion of the project calls for loft-style condos on the large tract of land on the south side of Detroit, between Hopkins and Winchester avenues.

It seems as if those plans are moving forward.

Bill Sanderson, project manager at and vice president of joint ventures Forest City Land Group, said the company is crafting building designs to present to the city’s Architectural Board of Review.

Preliminary plans call for a four-floor structure to be built with 40 energy-efficient units. Parking would be included on the property.

The cost of the units are lower than their townhome neighbors, starting at around $180,000.

“It would compete with higher-end rentals in the area,” Sanderson said. “Potential buyers are people who love Lakewood, but want some things greener and more efficient — and maybe more access to the public transit system.”

He said he looks forward to working with the city to get the project going.

“We’ve always been moving forward,” Sanderson said, adding that the economic downtown didn’t help the company’s progress. “We’re trying to see the bright side.”

The development group is now working to secure financing, and arranging agreements with contractors before work can begin.

“I’ve been involved with Rockport Square for five years,” Sanderson said. “I will tell you there have been some challenges — that neighborhood has had some challenges.

“As I walk down neighborhood now — with about 30 occupied townhomes — it’s clear there’s been a positive effect.”

All but three of the units in the first development are full. There is still no word on the next phase of the development across the street.

“We’re looking forward to discussing this further in the coming weeks,” said Dru Siley, the city’s assistant director of planning and development. “They’re exited about moving forward.”