The Belle Marks a New Era for Paradise Valley in Downtown Detroit

Broadway Street holds the legacy of Detroit’s Paradise Valley, a neighborhood once thriving with Black-owned businesses and vibrant jazz clubs. This area, rich with history, is now at the center of a significant transformation as Bedrock LLC, the Detroit-based real estate firm owned by Dan Gilbert, moves forward with a pivotal project. The Belle, a $40.7 million residential and commercial development, was announced Thursday as the latest step in revitalizing the historic Harvard Square building. Bedrock CEO Kofi Bonner emphasized the importance of the area’s cultural significance in a news release: “The legendary Paradise Valley has always been a staple of Detroit’s entertainment scene. Bedrock’s meticulous restoration of The Belle complements development efforts to bring modern and affordable living amenities to the Broadway Corridor.” The Belle will include 42 residential units and 8,000 square feet of commercial space, offering a mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments. According to city documents, rents will range from $1,376 to $3,159 per month. Twenty percent of the units will be designated for residents earning 80% of the area median income, which is $53,760 for Wayne County. This mix of affordability and modern amenities signals an attempt to create inclusivity in a rapidly changing...