Detroit is growing: More people, more coffee, and more affordable housing

Hey Detroit! We are back in our TechTown studio for your Daily Detroit, and on this Thursday, May 15th, 2025, the city is absolutely buzzing with news – from delicious new spots, to political shifts, to the city growing population for a second year in a row.

On today’s show:

Corktown Coffee & Bagels in Core City

First up, Devon brought in a treat from the brand new Haraz Coffee in Corktown, which just had its soft opening. Located at 1501 Church Street (right off Michigan & Trumbull in a new parking deck), this Yemeni coffee shop is already impressing.

Not to be outdone on the new-eats front, I shared my excitement about Bev's Bagels, the latest venture from James Beard-nominated Max Sussman. Tucked into a space on Grand River (south of Warren), Bev's offers an old-school diner counter feel but with amazing bagels.

Detroit's Growing Population & Development News

The big headline? Detroit's population has grown for the second consecutive year, according to new U.S. Census estimates. This is the first time since 1957 the city has seen two straight years of growth, adding 7,000 residents and becoming the 26th largest city proper in America. Mayor Duggan credits reduced crime, more jobs, and new housing.

While positive news, there’s much more work to do. We discuss the big pluses and what’s ahead.

Speaking of development, the groundbreaking for Lee Plaza on West Grand Boulevard (in the Northwest Goldberg neighborhood) is a monumental step. This 100-year-old, long-vacant iconic eyesore is being transformed into 117 units of affordable senior housing, with rents capped at 30% of income. It's a complex project with 7-8 layers of financing, but it's a "jewel" being added outside of downtown.

Political Tremors: 2026 Governor's Race Polls

New polling for the 2026 Governor's race is turning heads. A Target Insyght poll shows Mayor Mike Duggan, running as an independent, with 48% overall support among Detroit voters (up 9 points since February). He's even leading 51-28 among Black voters in the city.

Democratic Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson has slipped to 32%, and Republican Congressman John James is at just 3% with Detroit voters.

Although it’s early, we get into it because it shows the former Mayor has more juice than some expected. Though it’s kind of in line with what we predicted.

What Do You Think? What are your favorite new spots in the city? Are you feeling the growth? And what's your take on these early political polls? Let us know!

Email us at dailydetroit@gmail.com or leave a voicemail at 313-789-3211.

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