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Westland to Start Construction on Nearly $12M Park

Westland — City officials are planning a nearly **$12 million park** that they hope will help spark a downtown-like environment. The park, named Nankin Square, is slated for 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 expected to break ground this month and be completed by September 2025.

Officials hope the park will help revitalize the nearby Westland Mall property, which residents have described as an eyesore for years. “We’re using this as an economic development catalyst for the mall property,” said a city business development officer. “With that property being what it is, we’re looking for the mall ownership to hopefully redevelop the property.”

Nankin Square is expected to include an amphitheater, play areas for children, a walking path, a grand lawn, space for food trucks, and more. The park will also serve as host to outdoor fitness events, concerts, and other activities.

The city’s administration believes the presence of a premier park would turn the Westland Mall property into a prime location for a mixed-use development. Similar developments are being sought in nearby communities in an effort 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. This project is a big part of that,” said the official.

Nankin Square is expected to cost roughly **$11.6 million**. Westland’s Tax Increment Finance Authority has dedicated **$8 million** to the project, and the city has secured grants from the State of Michigan and Wayne County to pay for the remainder of the cost.

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