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Westland to Start Construction on Nearly $12M Park

Westland — City officials are gearing up to build a new park that’s set to cost nearly $12 million, and they hope it will create a vibrant downtown-like atmosphere.

The park, called Nankin Square, will cover 3.9 acres between the Westland Community Health Center on Warren Road and the city’s main fire station on Central City Parkway. The project is scheduled to break ground this month and is expected to be completed by September 2025.

Officials are optimistic that the park will help breathe new life into the nearby Westland Mall area, which residents have labeled an eyesore for many years. “We’re using this as an economic development catalyst for the mall property,” said Alex Garza, the city’s chief business development officer. “With that property being what it is, we’re looking for the mall ownership to hopefully redevelop the property.”

Nankin Square will feature an amphitheater, children’s play areas, a walking path, a grand lawn, space for food trucks, and more. Garza mentioned that the park would also host outdoor fitness events, concerts, and other activities.

The city’s administration believes that a premier park like this one will make the Westland Mall property an ideal spot for a mixed-use development. Similar developments are being pursued in nearby communities like Livonia to create common gathering spaces and attract young families.

“Westland has been without a traditional downtown, so we’re really looking to utilize this area around Warren Road as a downtown,” Garza said. “This project is a big part of that.”

The total cost for Nankin Square is estimated to be around $11.6 million. Westland’s Tax Increment Finance Authority has committed $8 million to the project, and the city has secured grants from the State of Michigan and Wayne County to cover the remaining costs.

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