The City of Sterling Heights is proud to announce the unanimous adoption of its updated Master Land Use Plan. The Master Plan serves as a comprehensive, community-driven document that will guide land use and development in the city for years to come.
This bold update is the result of a year-long process launched in 2024, and reflects Sterling Heights’ ongoing commitment to thoughtful, inclusive planning. The Master Plan builds on the City’s Visioning 2040 initiative and outlines a strategic path for enhancing existing neighborhoods, promoting sustainable redevelopment, and ensuring long-term economic and environmental resilience.
“This plan gives us the foundation to make confident, strategic decisions about land use, housing, transportation, and sustainability,” said City Planner Jake Parcell. “It allows us to shape growth that complements our existing neighborhoods and supports a high quality of life for all residents.”
The planning process was led by the City’s Office of Planning in partnership with Giffels Webster, a Michigan-based planning and engineering firm that provided technical guidance and facilitation throughout the project. The work was supported by $90,000 in grant funding secured from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).
Key focus areas include:
- Housing diversity and affordability, including strategies for “missing middle” housing and age-in-place options
- Revitalization of aging commercial corridors and underutilized land through infill and mixed-use development
- Environmental stewardship and support for green infrastructure
- Improved transportation connectivity, walkability, and bike-friendliness
- Dynamic placemaking that fosters community identity, public art, and inclusive public spaces
Given that Sterling Heights is largely built out, the plan focuses heavily on smart redevelopment, realistic infill opportunities, and strategic zoning updates to encourage quality, community-oriented growth.
“This isn’t just a planning document, it’s a promise to our community,” said Mayor Michael C. Taylor. “It reflects who we are, where we want to go, and how we get there together. From creating new housing options to attracting business investment and enhancing green spaces, this plan will help us build a Sterling Heights that works for everyone.”
The planning process was also marked by one of the most robust community engagement efforts in city history. The City collected over 4,500 survey responses, hosted two public open houses, led four educational planning modules, engaged youth through student art contests and the Youth Advisory Board, and provided hands-on outreach at Sterlingfest, the Dodge Park Farmers Market, and through mailed toolkits and water bill inserts.
The new plan also includes clear metrics and a detailed implementation strategy that ensures it’s not just visionary but actionable. It will serve as a key tool in zoning decisions, housing development, business attraction, environmental initiatives, and transportation planning.
To view the full Sterling Heights Master Plan, visit: www.sterlingheights.gov/masterplan