Detroit's Historic Chinatown Moves Toward Revival with Streetscape Project

Final design concepts unveiled for $1 million Peterboro Streetscape Project to restore cultural hub

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Detroit's historic Chinatown is taking a step toward revival with the unveiling of final design concepts for the Peterboro Streetscape Project, a more than $1 million effort to restore the cultural hub along the city's Cass Corridor. The project will bring improved sidewalks, murals, lighting, and plants to Peterboro Street, honoring the neighborhood's history.

Why it matters

Detroit's Chinatown has faced challenges over the years, including being forced to relocate in the 1960s due to urban renewal. This project aims to revive the cultural identity and vibrancy of the neighborhood, connecting it to surrounding areas like downtown, Brush Park, and the Cass Corridor.

The details

Midtown Detroit Inc. unveiled the final design concepts, which outline plans to improve the streetscape along Peterboro Street between Second and Cass avenues. The project will include upgraded sidewalks, murals, lighting, and landscaping to honor the neighborhood's history. The $1 million project is being funded in part by a state grant secured by State Sen. Stephanie Chang, with Midtown Detroit Inc. aiming to raise an additional $1.4 million over the next year.

  • Midtown Detroit Inc. unveiled the final design concepts on February 24, 2026.
  • Construction is expected to begin in spring 2027, with a potential completion in fall 2027.

The players

Midtown Detroit Inc.

A nonprofit organization focused on revitalizing and developing Detroit's Midtown neighborhood, including the historic Chinatown area.

Melanie Markowicz

The executive director of Midtown Detroit Inc.

Lisa Yee-Litzenberg

Daughter of Henry Yee, who was known as the unofficial mayor of Detroit's Chinatown.

Stephanie Chang

A Michigan state senator who helped secure a $1 million state grant for the Chinatown revival project.

Jonathan Hartzell

The owner of Detroit Shipping Company, a nearby business that is looking forward to the investment and revitalization of the Chinatown area.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It's so important that as we experience growth and redevelopment in our community that we really look to the cultural identity of that community.”

— Melanie Markowicz, Executive Director, Midtown Detroit Inc. (WXYZ)

“It was really fantastic as a place where I could feel safe and at home, and a place where I could proud of my culture.”

— Lisa Yee-Litzenberg (WXYZ)

“Whether it's the improved streetscape or the incorporation of Asian cultural elements, I think it's going to be a big difference for the business owners here, for residents around this area.”

— Stephanie Chang, State Senator (WXYZ)

“We're the last thing that's been built here in the last eight years, so to see investment coming in the community and putting more focus on this is going to bring more people that actually help support the community.”

— Jonathan Hartzell, Owner, Detroit Shipping Company (WXYZ)

What’s next

If all goes well, construction on the Peterboro Streetscape Project is expected to begin in spring 2027, with a potential completion in fall 2027.

The takeaway

This project represents an important step in reviving Detroit's historic Chinatown, which has faced challenges over the years. By investing in the cultural identity and streetscape of the neighborhood, the city and community partners aim to reconnect Chinatown to surrounding areas and foster a renewed sense of vibrancy and pride.