Ann Arbor's Skyline Set for a Shake-Up: Liberty Street High-Rise Eyes Hotel and Short-Term Rental Future

There’s a fascinating development brewing right in the heart of Ann Arbor, specifically at the corner of Liberty and Division Streets. You might remember the buzz around a proposed 19-story high-rise for the site of the old Liberty Title building at 301 E. Liberty St. Well, hold onto your hats, because what was initially envisioned as a residential haven might be taking a rather significant turn.

The developer, Oxford Property Management—which, incidentally, is linked to the long-standing and respected First Martin Corp.—had previously secured approval back in 2021 for a soaring tower. The plan then? A grand 203 residential units, think apartments or condos, sitting atop some lovely ground-floor retail. It seemed like a clear path forward, adding much-needed housing stock to our bustling downtown core.

But time, as they say, marches on, and sometimes plans need to evolve with the market. Now, the team behind this ambitious project is seeking a rather crucial zoning amendment. Instead of sticking solely to long-term residential units, they're exploring the possibility of incorporating hotel rooms and even short-term rentals—yes, like those popular Airbnb spots—into the building's future.

So, what does this new vision entail? Essentially, it means the 19-story structure could become quite versatile. It might end up being entirely a hotel, offering around 280 rooms if it goes that route. Or, and perhaps more likely, it could be a dynamic mix: a portion dedicated to residential living, another to traditional hotel stays, and yet another set aside for those convenient short-term rentals. Imagine the flexibility for visitors and residents alike!

Now, you might be wondering, "But isn't downtown zoning flexible enough for hotels?" And you'd be right, generally speaking. Our D1 (Downtown Core) zoning district does permit both hotels and residential uses. The catch here is that the developer had a specific "planned project agreement" (PPA) approved for this particular site back in 2021, and that PPA was explicitly for residential and retail. To introduce hotel rooms or short-term rentals, they'll need to amend that existing agreement.

This isn't just a casual tweak; it's a formal process. The proposal will need to make its way through the City Planning Commission for their thoughtful review and recommendations. After that, it's ultimately up to the Ann Arbor City Council to cast their votes on whether to approve this amendment. It’s a decision that could really shape a prominent corner of our downtown.

From the developer's perspective, this move likely reflects a desire for greater flexibility and perhaps an acknowledgment of Ann Arbor's unique demand. Our city, with the University of Michigan at its heart, consistently sees high demand for hotel rooms, especially during major events like football weekends, graduations, and various conferences. Short-term rentals also fill a significant niche, offering visitors a different kind of lodging experience.

Of course, any proposal like this sparks broader conversations in a community as engaged as Ann Arbor's. It touches on questions of housing affordability, the character of our downtown, and how we balance growth with preserving what makes our city special. It will certainly be interesting to see how this towering twist unfolds as it navigates the city's approval process. Stay tuned!