Posted by – Steve Cohen, Director of Community Development
We’re very pleased to report that the City of Auburn Hills, in cooperation with Palace Sports & Entertainment (PS&E), has initiated a rezoning application to prepare the 109 acre arena property for redevelopment should it no longer remain viable as a sports and entertainment venue in the years ahead.
The Palace of Auburn Hills
The land currently has two separate and distinct zoning districts. The property on which the Pistons practice facility is located is zoned T&R, Technology and Research District and contains approximately six acres; while the property on which the arena sits is zoned I-2, General Industrial District and contains approximately 103 acres. The City and PS&E have agreed that the T&R zoning is best suited for the entire property. The T&R zoning classification is also being presented for amendment to permit the arena to remain as an allowable use in the T&R district should that be the final outcome for the site.
The recommendation of the T&R zoning came as a result of a detailed planning analysis called The Palace of Auburn Hills Arena Redevelopment Study, which was conducted by City staff and authorized by the City Council. The study and proposed zoning change will set the stage for a quick and streamlined review process for new development at the site, if use of the arena is ultimately discontinued.
Scenario A: City’s “wish list” for the redevelopment of the site. Create a walkable, interconnected R&D park with uses such as corporate HQ locations, hotel/conference center, and fitness center
Scenario B: Facilitating redevelopment of the site with several large scale R&D/clean industrial businesses. This option would be immediately supported by the real estate market and is a natural fit for Auburn Hills
Auburn Hills’ officials believe this proactive, “redevelopment ready” approach will better position the City and PS&E when working collaboratively with the State of Michigan and Oakland County to attract new companies and investment to the location.
Those interested in learning more about this proposal are encouraged to attend the Planning Commission meeting scheduled for Wednesday, June 14th at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber at City Hall. A final decision on the application is anticipated to be made by the City Council on Monday, June 26th.