Dearborn is using an old program and well-known program to improve its neighborhood. The city is celebrating the 40th anniversary of its Operation Eyesore and offering to sell trees to residents.
Operation Eyesore got its start in 1960 when the city began buying and razing problem properties so they could be redeveloped. Since that time it has removed 1,288 blighted buildings, letting developers replace them with 585 new dwellings. All sales to the city are voluntary.
Dearborn property owners who feel a sub-standard building is in their neighborhood and would like to sell it to the city can call (313) 943-2170.
The city is also offering $25 trees to residents so it can be planted in the easement in front of their homes. There is a limited supply. The following species of trees are available: Celebration Maple, Yellowwood, Honeylocust, Ginkgo, Golden Rain Tree, Rubber Tree, Hackberry, London Plane Tree. The supply of free trees for the program is limited to 200.
They can be ordered by calling (313) 943-2318.
Source: City of Dearborn
Writer: Jon Zemke
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