The project is expected to cost $13 million, and the additional $2 million would cover cost overruns. Once complete, the Town Center will consist of 600 residential units and 200,000 sf of retail space. There are about 28,000 residents living in Brownstown, and the population is expected to increase to more than 40,000 by 2030, according to the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments.

According to the plan, it will take anywhere from five to 15 years to complete the Town Center, depending on how fast the spaces get occupied. The area on Telegraph and West, aside from housing and somebusinesses, has some vacant property and about 19 different parcel owners who have agreed to sell to the township.

"The township has been pretty much undeveloped, and over the last seven to 10 years, there's been such a demand, additionally with it becoming southeast Michigan's fastest-growing community," says Joe DiSanto, economic development manager. "The image of the community is just changing daily. The quality of life is getting better."