Detroiters are bracing themselves for another round of storms on Wednesday night.

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Area residents dealt with sleet and rain during their morning commutes as scattered thunderstorms moved through the region. The National Weather Service has placed most of metro Detroit under a Flood Watch from 8 p.m. Wednesday through Thursday morning, with risk of high winds, heavy rain, and the possibility of hail or an isolated tornado.

The heaviest rainfall is expected to develop overnight, with NWS estimating up to two inches of rain. That could lead to rising water levels in creeks and streams. Low-lying areas could be affected as well, and residents who have experienced flooding during past heavy rain events are encouraged to check their basements through the evening to make sure water isn’t backing up.

Temperatures will rise into the 60s during the evening hours.  

Other headlines for Wednesday, April 2, 2025:

• The city of Highland Park issued a boil water advisory for residents this week after receiving complaints about low water pressure over the weekend. Officials say they’ve been working to modernize the city’s system by replacing water mains and installing master meters in different parts of Highland Park.
• Wayne County Health Director Abdul El-Sayed is stepping down to “consider a future opportunity in Michigan,” after serving in the position for two years, County Executive Warren Evans announced in a news release Wednesday.
• State Sen. Mallory McMorrow (D-Royal Oak) announced Wednesday that she is running for the U.S Senate seat that will be left open by outgoing Sen. Gary Peters.
• Detroiters are waiting to hear details about tariffs that President Donald Trump says he will implement Wednesday, on what he calls “Liberation Day.” Trump is expected to deliver late afternoon remarks about the subject in the White House Rose Garden. 

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

The city of Detroit is inviting residents to take part in a series of “policy workshops” this month as part of its master plan for the future.

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Plan Detroit is three-phase planning process informed by resident feedback that is expected to conclude with implementation of the new collaborative policies by 2026.

According to the city, the Michigan planning enabling act (MPEA) recommends cities update their master plans every 10 years, and Detroit’s master plan has not been comprehensively updated since 2009.

The upcoming events are intended to provide an “interactive” opportunity to work with city planners to create practical policies that address real concerns for Detroiters.

Sessions will take place at 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 12, and at 5:30 p.m. April 14-16.  All sessions will be held at the Joseph Walker Williams Community Center at 8431 Rosa Parks Blvd., Detroit. Topics will include Neighborhoods & Housing, Open Space & Environment, Arts & Culture; and Mobility & Jobs.

For more information and to register to attend, visit plandetroit.com. 

Other headlines for Tuesday, April 1, 2025:

• Detroit firefighters are trying to find out what caused an apartment building on the city’s west side to explode. The Detroit Fire Department is also apologizing for an emergency alert that went out to cellphones throughout metro Detroit around 6 a.m. Monday morning notifying people about the blast. 
• American Forests says its urban tree planting partnership in Detroit has helped add more than 25,000 trees to the city since 2021.
• Billionaire Dan Gilbert’s real estate empire is growing. Rocket Companies has acquired competitor Mr. Cooper Group Inc. in an all-stock deal worth about $9.5 billion. Last week, Rocket bought another competitor, Redfin, for roughly $1.7 billion.
• Gas prices rose sharply overnight, with AAA Michigan reporting drivers paid an average of $3.25 a gallon for regular unleaded — 10 cents more than yesterday.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

Today on the Detroit Evening Report, we cover the ramifications of last night’s storms, new city-wide projects and upcoming community events.

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Power outages across the state

DTE Energy says about 22,000 customers had no power this morning after severe thunderstorms Sunday night caused widespread damage in the lower peninsula. Consumers Energy reported 163,000 homes and businesses were without electricity as well. DTE estimated power would be returned to 95 percent of customers by the end of the day.

Monroe Streetscape Project breaks ground this week

The Greektown Neighborhood Partnership will be hosting a groundbreaking ceremony for the Monroe Streetscape Project on Wednesday, April 2. The project will focus on improving the safety and accessibility for pedestrians in the corridor. Improvements include wider sidewalks and outdoor café spaces, a flexible, curb-less roadway, and reduced lanes to slow traffic. The project is expected to be completed by the summer of 2026.

Career and education assistance program launches

The City of Pontiac is collaborating with Oakland80 to launch a series called Career and Education Navigators to assist residents in applying for financial assistance to attend college, find jobs, and get other services. Multiple resources will be available to job seekers and residents looking to further their education, including locating scholarships, financial assistance to pay for books, supplies, childcare and transportation. It will also include job seeking services.

The events are free and open to all Pontiac residents. The program kicked off today, March 31, in Pontiac City Hall and will take place every Monday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, visit pontiac.mi.us.

MDOT looking for snowplow designs

The Michigan Department of Transportation is accepting applications for 2025-2026 Paint the Plow Program. MDOT is looking for submissions from students on creative and original designs to be painted on snowplow blades in an effort to communicate safe winter driving practices for all Michigan residents.

The program is open to all Michigan high schools. The application deadline is Friday, May 16. Selected schools will be notified before the end of the 2025 school year and arrangements will be made for the delivery of their plow blade in the fall. Interested schools can visit michigan.gov/painttheplow for more information and to submit their design.

Easter Funfest Carnival planned for April 19

The Detroit Department of Recreation is hosting the Easter Funfest Carnival on Saturday April 19. The event will feature bike giveaways, an Easter basket giveaway, carnival rides and food trucks. There will also be an Easter egg hunt, Oompa Loompa sack race, face painting, pony rides and a petting zoo. The carnival will run between 1–5 p.m. at Lasky Recreation Center. For more information, visit their Facebook event page.

Detroit yard waste collection begins

Yard waste collection in Detroit begins today, March 31 and ends December 19. The curbside pickup will occur alongside weekly trash pickup. For more information, visit detroitmi.gov.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is preparing
metro Detroiters for the upcoming reconstruction of I-94.

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The “Restore 94” project, which will begin early next year, is a $353 million overhaul of 12.7 miles of freeway in the communities of Allen Park, Dearborn Heights, Dearborn, Romulus and Taylor and Melvindale — from east of I-275 to west of Michigan Avenue.

MDOT held two public information sessions Downriver this week about the project, where residents shared concerns about construction noise and increased traffic. MDOT says studies are
being done to see how both could be mitigated.

At least two eastbound and westbound lanes of I-94 will be open during the construction, but occasional closures may occur, MDOT said.

The Restore 94 project comes as reconstruction of I-696
has eastbound traffic shutdown from
M-10 to I-75. That closure will last until 2027.

Other headlines for Friday, March 28, 2025:

• The nonprofit Focus: HOPE is partnering with Skilltrade and Detroit at Work to offer a medical assistant training program beginning Saturday, March 29. Eligible candidates must
 have a high school diploma/GED, be 18 years old or older, and
have reliable transportation. Space is limited.
• Arab Women United is accepting artist submissions for their
Arab Heritage Art Celebration in April.
 The event, held during Arab American Heritage
Month, will showcase the creativity of Arab artists. The lineup
 includes live-art performances, henna-drawing opportunities,
 poetry, music and more.
• Madness is still taking over March with the NCAA March
Madness tournament and two hometown favs. The Michigan
State Spartans and the University of Michigan Wolverines have two big match ups Friday night that you can watch at Parlay Detroit.
They are having a watch party that will last until 2 a.m., with live entertainment by DJ Trust. Tip off for the Michigan State-Ole Miss game is at 7:09 p.m.
Tip off for the University of Michigan-Auburn game is at 9:30 p.m.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan announced Thursday that over 90 percent of the families displaced by the water main break and subsequent flooding in Southwest Detroit have returned to their homes.

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The city has replaced 125 furnaces and 126 hot water heaters in affected homes, with just a few left that need replacing.

Resident Deanna Dooley has lived on Rowan Street for 20 years. She says she was impressed with the response from the city.

“When we woke up in the middle of the night, none of us knew what we were going to do,” she said. “But within 24 hours, at least we all felt safe again. We weren’t whole, but we were safe.”

Dooley says her furnace, hot water heater and all the electrical wiring in her basement were replaced and her family is back in their home.

Homeowners who still need to make a claim have until Thursday, April 3 to file. Duggan says the emergency hotline for repairs will be discontinued on Sunday. Anyone who still needs help can call 877-311-3664. The Notice of Claim form can be found in English and Spanish at detroitmi.gov. 

Other headlines for Thursday, March 27, 2025:

• President Donald Trump announced yesterday  25 percent tariffs on cars and light duty trucks imported into the US. That will have an impact on Detroit’s Big Three automakers. Ford Motor Company has three plants in Mexico, and reportedly sent roughly 176,000 cars from there to the US just in the first half of 2024. General Motors imported about 750,000 vehicles into the US from Canada or Mexico last year. Stellantis also has assembly plants in Mexico and Canada. Congresswoman Debbie Dingle supports the tariffs, but says car companies and suppliers need time to adjust to them. She says while the tariffs could bring companies back to the US, it won’t happen overnight.
• Detroit City Councilmember Fred Durhal is hosting a career support and opportunities event for returning citizens. The Dress for Success resource fair will provide professional support and other help to returning citizens in Detroit. Residents can pick up donated business casual attire, receive help writing resumes and get interview etiquette training. The event will be Friday, March 28 from 2–4 p.m. at Covenant Community Care on 17625 Joy Road. To register and learn more, visit @freddurhal3 on Instagram.
• Signup for the Plan Detroit Policy Workshops is now open. The workshops allow Detroit residents to sound off on decisions that will affect Detroit neighborhoods, environment, culture, transportation and economy. Participants will sit in on guided discussions, collaborate with residents and work directly with city planners to develop policy recommendations. Workshops begin on Saturday, April 12 at the Joseph Walker Williams Community Center. To register, visit plandetroit.com.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan delivered his final State of the City address Tuesday night, speaking to an invitation-only crowd at the new Hudson’s development in downtown Detroit.

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Duggan spent much of the speech reviewing the city’s successes over the past decade, and focused on some highlights of the past year — such as the lowest homicide rate since 1965 and growth in Detroit’s population for the first time since 1957.   

One of the big challenges for the Duggan administration was the need to eliminate abandoned homes.  There were 47,000 at the start of his tenure.  Last night, he predicted that by the end of the year there would only be 1,000 abandoned homes left in Detroit. 

“Detroit’s biggest battle for the last 12 years has been the neighborhoods, and the 47,000 abandoned houses. I thought we could bring every neighborhood back, and we started by demolishing at rates faster than anybody in the country. But to me the real test wasn’t how many we could knock down…but how many we could save,” he said.

Duggan credited much of the city’s turnaround to the ability of city leaders to work together, instead of fighting and blaming each other for existing problems. Duggan announced late last year that he would not seek a fourth term as mayor of Detroit.

In January, he declared his intentions to run for governor of Michigan – not as a democrat or a Republican – but as an independent. He’s been making stops in different corners of the state since then. 

Other headlines for Wednesday, March 26, 2025: 

• Detroit attorney Todd Perkins has sent out information saying he’ll formally announce the beginning of his campaign for mayor next week.
• Gas prices remain steady in metro Detroit, with AAA Michigan reporting the average price of a gallon of self-serve unleaded is $3.10 — the same as it was a week ago. Prices did jump over the past couple of weeks.  Industry analysts say that price increase was due to higher gasoline demand as Americans travel for spring break.
• March Madness continues to capture the attention of metro Detroiters — especially with the state’s two largest universities — University of Michigan and Michigan State — still in contention for a national championship.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

A judge has delayed for a month the approval of a $55 million settlement in a Michigan class action lawsuit involving unemployment payments.

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In Saunders v Unemployment Ins. Agency et al, about 23,000 Michigan residents who applied for unemployment benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic say they were wrongly asked to return payments.

The state has not admitted responsibility but has agreed to pay out $1,400 to complainants. Chief Judge Brock Swartzle from the Michigan Court of Claims has scheduled a final hearing for 1 p.m. April 24 at the Michigan Court of Appeals courtroom in Lansing to approve the settlement.

Anyone involved in the lawsuit can attend the hearing in person or virtually to address their concerns. The deadline for claimants to join the lawsuit was in December.

More headlines for Tuesday, March 25, 2025:

• The old Uniroyal tire production site on the Detroit riverfront has been named as a possible site for a WNBA practice facility, The Detroit News reports.
• Grammy-nominated soul/country duo The War and Treaty are set to return to Detroit for a performance this Saturday, March 29, at Detroit’s St. Andrew’s Hall. The husband and wife duo will be stopping by WDET Studios before their performance for a live interview during Essential Music with host Ann Delisi.
• Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan’s final State of the City address is set for 7 p.m. on Tuesday. Watch the livestream at wdet.org or tune in to 101.9 FM WDET.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan is set to give his final State of the City address on Tuesday.

Subscribe to the Detroit Evening Report on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

Duggan announced in November of last year that he would not seek reelection as mayor of Detroit in 2025. A month later, the longtime Democrat made an announcement that he’s making a bid for Michigan’s next governor as an independent.

Duggan says much has changed since he delivered his first State of the City speech in 2014, as Detroit fought to exit bankruptcy.

“I asked Detroiters ‘Please stay.’ Our families were moving out at the rate of a thousand a month and they had been for years,” he said. “The homeowners have gained $4.6 billion, and it was the people who stayed who benefited the most.”

Duggan argues the rise in home values counters criticism that investment in the city has left Detroit’s neighborhoods behind.

But he’ll address residents from inside the Hudson’s Detroit skyscraper — one in a series of new developments dotting the city’s downtown.

The Michigan gubernatorial election is in November 2026.

The State of the City address will begin at 7 p.m. Tuesday. Visit wdet.org to watch a live stream of Duggan’s speech.

Other headlines for Monday, March 24, 2025:

• Michigan libraries are preparing for cuts as the Trump Administration slashes federal funding for agencies. In a recent executive order, President Trump has called for the elimination of the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Money from the institute supports Michigan’s library databases, media collections, programming, local technology, and other community services. 
  
• If you are looking for a new casual neighborhood bar, look no further than Dirty Shake. The establishment has opened in Detroit’s Midtown at Forest and Second avenues. The bar was opened by the award-winning team behind Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails, Freya, Dragonfly and the Oakland.
• We are still in the madness of March and the Wolverines and Spartans are headed to the sweet 16. The University of Michigan came back against Texas A& M in a 91-79 win. Their next game is against No. 1 seeded Auburn on March 28 at 9:30 p.m. And Michigan State’s defense led them to a 71-63 win over New Mexico. They’re next game is against Ole Miss on March 28 as well. Tip off is at 7:30 p.m.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday calling for the dismantling of the Department of Education.

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Eliminating the department altogether would be a hard task, and will likely require an act of Congress. Trump has already cut the department’s staff in half since returning to office. Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency has already cut dozens of contracts and has gutted the Institute of Education Sciences, which gathers data on the nation’s academic progress.

We reported on Feb. 21’s Detroit Evening Report that Michigan could face major challenges if the federal department is cut. Detroit Public Schools Community District Superintendent Nikolai Vitti said during a virtual budget meeting with more than 1,000 attendees that the elimination of the department could lead to many things, such as less monitoring around discrimination claims.

The superintendent noted that the effects could be catastrophic to the largest district in the state.

President Trump has said that low test scores nationwide is part of the reason for making this order, but hasn’t explained how moving federal responsibilities to the state will help increase scores.

Other headlines for Friday, March 21, 2025:

• The city of Dearborn will hold a small business pitch competition in May. The city’s Economic Development Department is encouraging start-ups and established businesses to join. Eligible innovators are U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old, with a brick-and-mortar business located in Dearborn. Food and beverage-based businesses are not eligible to participate. The first place winner will earn $25,000. Second place is $10,000 and third is $5,000. The competition will be held at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center on May 13.
• Applications for vendor spots at the Dearborn Summer Market are now open. The market will be located at Peace Park West and will run through July and August on the second Friday of each month. Those interested in reserving a vendor spot are required to apply online by March 31.
• March Madness is upon us and the No. 2 seed Michigan State Spartans makes its 27th straight NCAA Tournament appearance on Friday when it takes on the No. 15 seed Bryant Bulldogs in a first-round matchup in the South region. Michigan State’s streak of 27-straight NCAA Tournaments is not only a Big Ten record, it’s also the third-longest in NCAA history and is officially recognized by the NCAA as the longest active streak. This is the 38th NCAA Tournament appearance all-time for MSU. The game airs at 10 p.m. Friday on TBS.
• The 14th-ranked and No. 5-seeded University of Michigan men’s basketball team squeaked out a three-point victory, defeating No. 12-seeded UC San Diego, 68-65, on Thursday night in the first round of the NCAA Tournament at Ball Arena. A pair of late Vladislav Goldin free throws helped the Wolverines advance to the second round. Their next game is at 5:15 p.m. on March 22, on CBS.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

Editor’s note: The above audio incorrectly states that the Detroit Department of Transportation is seeking $2 million budget increase to hire more bus drivers and replace old buses. The correct figure is $20 million.

Tonight on The Detroit Evening Report, we share the latest on the shooting at Corewell Health Beaumont Troy Hospital; a rally against cuts to Medicaid outside Michigan Congressmen John James’ office and more.

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Suspect arrested in Troy hospital shooting

Police have arrested a man suspected of shooting a co-worker inside a parking garage at Corewell Health Beaumont Troy Hospital Thursday morning. Troy police say the shooting took place just after 7 a.m. The 25-year-old victim is in stable condition after being shot in the arm. The hospital, nearby schools and some roadways were locked down during the search.

Rally for Medicaid

Roughly 100 unionized health care workers and others depending on Medicaid payments gathered outside the office of Michigan Congressman John James on Wednesday, asking him to vote against cuts.

Protesters say cuts to the federal portion of Medicaid could cost health care workers their jobs, and force nursing homes to close. Democratic Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib joined the rally — miles away from her own constituents — to argue that the votes of three or four of her Republican colleagues could save the insurance program.

“Because Medicaid cuts would devastate so many of my families in my district. And I know if John James could just join us to choose the people that elected him, not Trump or Elon Musk, and all of us will have his back if he chooses to do the right thing,” Tlaib said.

Congressional Republicans are considering changes in Medicaid to help cover the cost of President Trump’s planned tax cuts. 

Auto industry braces for layoffs

Car dealers and UAW local leaders are bracing for possible layoffs as a result of the Trump Administration’s tariff war.

Inventory on car lots are high and consumer confidence is weakened as buyers contend with potential price increases. Many UAW leaders told the Detroit Free Press they are concerned the tariff war will disrupt production at plants. Last week, President Trump announced a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports from all countries, which will impact carmakers. 

RenCen’s Tower 600 sold

The Renaissance Center’s Tower 600 was sold in a small auction Wednesday for $9.2 million. The winner is currently unknown.

The bidding started Monday at $2.75 million. The auction comes at a time when the future of the rest of the Renaissance Center is in limbo. Tower 600 has 334,000 square feet and is only 11% occupied. 

DDOT seeks budget increase

The Detroit Department of Transportation is asking for a $20 million budget increase to hire more bus drivers and replace old buses. DDOT officials told city council they expect to hire 63 more drivers and replace 45 buses. The department is also looking to add or upgrade at least 60 shelters with solar lighting, USB charging ports, and improved access and benches. DDOT runs 169 buses in the morning and 179 in the afternoon. The department’s current budget is near $170 million.

Volunteers sought for Southwest Detroit care packages

The Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services (ACCESS) is holding an event on Saturday to collect and assemble care packages for the residents that were affected by the recent flood in Southwest Detroit. ACCESS will be accepting donations of items such as personal, feminine, and dental hygiene products; pillow and blankets, and non-perishable food items. The nonprofit is still looking for volunteers. The event will be held between noon and 2 p.m. at the ACCESS Headquarters Gym in Dearborn. 

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

Tonight on The Detroit Evening Report, we share news about the city of Detroit’s expansion to its private sewer repair program; a new area code for some Detroiters and more.

Subscribe to the Detroit Evening Report on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

Detroit expands sewer repair program

Detroit is adding 75 neighborhoods to its private sewer repair program. The city received $95 million from the federal government to help residents whose homes were damaged when heavy rain caused flooding in 2021.

The repair effort started last year in the 22 hardest-hit neighborhoods. Mayor Mike Duggan says city workers have helped more than 400 families through the program so far, with the expansion allowing them to reach another 1,000 homes.

The Water and Sewerage Department will clean and inspect lateral service lines and repair or replace them as needed.

Detroit adding 679 area code

Detroit’s getting another area code this fall after the Michigan Public Service Commission says the region is running out of available 313 numbers.

New phone customers will be assigned a 679 area code in November. It’ll cover the same area, which includes the city and some adjacent communities. People with 313 numbers won’t have to change them, but starting in October, they will have to dial all 10 digits to call anyone. 679 will be Michigan’s 13th area code. 

MiAble program boosts outreach

A savings program for Michigan residents with disabilities is ramping up efforts to promote its service.

MiABLE is teaming up with the Community Mental Health Association of Michigan to spread the word about the benefits of opening a MiABLE account, which allow people with disabilities to save and invest without jeopardizing essential benefits like Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income. MiABLE estimates only 1% of the people eligible for an account are currently enrolled.

Together, MiABLE and the Community Mental Health Association are kicking off a statewide roadshow to spread the word about the program. 

Detroit Disability Power hosts ‘DanceAbility’ workshops

Detroit Disability Power has hosted ‘DanceAbility’ workshops throughout March. DanceAbility is designed to provide a space where everyone — including people with disabilities — can feel comfortable to move within their capabilities.

Lead organizer Cara Graninger says that the workshops encourage people to challenge what they may consider limitations.

“It’s just normal, at DanceAbility, whatever body you have, however you move, that’s the new normal,” she said.

The last workshop will take place virtually on March 21.  Learn more at detroitdisabilitypower.org/danceability

–Reporting by Zahra Hassan, WDET

Detroit hires veterans affairs manager

Detroit has hired its first Veterans Affairs Manager, the city announced Thursday.

Kwesi Betserai spent 28 years in the military, serving in Iraq, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. In his new role,  Betserai will be connecting vets with benefits, jobs, housing, health care and other services. He previously held a similar position with Wayne County’s Veterans Services Division. 

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

Tonight on The Detroit Evening Report, we cover Michigan’s new interactive Public Health Data Dashboard; the Detroit Department of Transportation’s upcoming public hearing on future service changes and more.

Subscribe to the Detroit Evening Report on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

Michigan’s new public health dashboard

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has launched a public health dashboard.

The Michigan Public Health Data Dashboard provides policymakers with data on public health trends, based on State House and Senate districts. The data is accessible to lawmakers, local officials, and advocacy groups for public health metrics. It includes health outcomes, such as mortality data, blood lead levels, and health behavior trends. It also has social and economic factors, physical environment trends, and clinical care trends such as prenatal care.

The metrics aim to offer a snapshot of how each district is doing in comparison to the statewide average. To check out the dashboard, visit michigan.gov/healthstatistics. 

DDOT to host public hearing

The Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) is hosting a public hearing at 5 p.m. Thursday, March 20, to gather feedback from residents about service changes that begin this summer.

Proposed changes — which go into effect June 22 — include route schedule changes along Grand River and Jefferson streets, among other routes. Several of the routes will expand service frequency, adding time slots throughout the day, while others will get shortened. 

The hybrid hearing will take place at the Rosa Parks Transit Center, 1310 Cass Ave., Detroit, and on Zoom.

House GOP to vote on tax rollback 

Michigan House Speaker Matt Hall says there will be a floor vote this week on a bill to roll back the state income tax rate. The measure would reduce the rate from 4.25% to 4.05%.

That’s where it was two years ago when high tax revenues triggered a law that reduced the income tax. Republicans argued the cut should have been permanent, but the state attorney general and the Treasury determined it was only good for a year. 

Hall says the bill being voted on this week will ensure that future automatic reductions are permanent. 

“And so what we’re going to do is we’re going to move to reverse the Democrat income tax hike and roll that back to 4.05% where it should be,” he said. “And, as you know, every small business and worker in Michigan pays the income tax and so this is going to really help them with the cost of living right now.”

Democrats say that would reduce revenue. They challenged Republicans to say what budget cuts they would make to pay for the lower income tax. 

–Reporting by Rick Pluta, Michigan Public Radio Network.

Severe Weather Awareness Week

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has declared this week Severe Weather Awareness Week. This comes after a severe weather over the weekend, with storms and tornadoes crossing several states.

The Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DFIS) encourages Michigan residents to acquire insurance coverage for potentially severe weather conditions. They suggest residents review insurance coverage to check for flood insurance, take inventory of personal belongings, and gather emergency contacts.

They say securing important documents and protecting finances by having an emergency fund is also important. DFIS says people with property damage should report a claim, work to document and prevent further loss, and be wary of fraudulent contractors. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/DFIS.  

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

Tonight on The Detroit Evening Report, we cover the state’s efforts to form a new advisory committee of former Medicaid recipients to share their experiences; Detroit’s 67th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and more.

Subscribe to the Detroit Evening Report on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

Former Medicaid members sought for new committee

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is recruiting former Medicaid recipients from across the state to join its new 15-member Beneficiary Advisory Council. The group will be tasked with identifying barriers to accessing Medicaid services, addressing the social elements that affect health for recipients and making policy recommendations to MDHHS leadership.

Those selected to serve on the committee may receive compensation for their time and reimbursement for childcare and respite services. Applications are due by 5 p.m. on April 14. Questions about the application can be emailed to MDHHS-BAC@michigan.gov.

Related: Michigan Health and Hospital Association CEO says protecting Medicaid protects Michigan

MESP College Savings Program celebrates 25 years

The Michigan Education Savings Plan’s 25th anniversary is this year and it’s offering new benefits to celebrate. The ‘5-29’ savings plan lets people put money aside for college, vocational training and some other educational expenses. Starting next month, those funds can also be used to cover apprenticeship costs and to repay up to $10,000 of student loans. The new benefits align Michigan 529 programs with many national savings programs and are made possible by state legislation passed last year.

Michigan Ukrainian refugees in limbo

Thousands of Ukrainian refugees who migrated to Michigan to escape the war are bracing for possible deportation, after recent reports that the Trump administration will revoke their legal status.

President Donald Trump announced last week that he will soon decide the fate of the roughly 240,000 Ukrainians who fled the conflict, following a Reuters report announcing his administration’s plan.

Detroit’s annual St. Patrick’s Parade returns

Corktown will host the 67th annual Detroit St. Patrick’s Parade this Sunday, March 16, beginning at 1 p.m. at 6th Street and Michigan Avenue. The parade, which features floats, marching bands, pipe and drum bands, and so much more, has brought together people to celebrate Detroit’s rich Irish heritage for over half a century!

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

Tonight on The Detroit Evening Report, we share the latest news on cleanup efforts in Southwest Detroit after the water main break; highlight special events planned for 313 Day and more.

Subscribe to the Detroit Evening Report on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

Cleanup continues in Southwest Detroit

The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department said Wednesday it’s making good progress on repairing damage from a major water main break in Southwest Detroit. DWSD Director Gary Brown says fixing residential furnaces, hot water tanks, electrical and plumbing issues are a priority.

“We’re addressing [those issues] first so that we can get people back in their homes while we take care of a punch list of other smaller things while they’re still in the home,” he said.

Brown says he hopes to meet his goal of getting the neighborhood back to normal within six weeks. Dozens of families are still staying in hotels until repairs are completed. 

Michigan report shows unemployment uptick

Michigan gained jobs in January, but not enough to rein in an increase in the state’s monthly jobless rate — which is now 5.3%. The new state jobs report was released on Thursday by the Michigan Center for Data and Analytics. Michigan’s January unemployment rate is 1.3% higher than the national rate. Part of that is due to turbulence in the manufacturing sector of the economy.  

–Reporting by Rick Pluta, Michigan Public Radio Network

Pensole Lewis College of Business launches annual Light School 

The Pensole Lewis College of Business – formerly known as Lewis Business College – has started an annual “Light School” program. The school is offering free night classes across multiple design disciplines such as apparel, footwear and graphics. The experience is funded by the Detroit Pistons, Stock X and the college. Each of the classes runs for six weeks. 

–Reporting by Michale Coffey, WDET

Michigan gas prices steady

Gas prices remain steady in metro Detroit, according to AAA Michigan. The average price for a gallon of self-serve unleaded is $3.01.  Last week, gas was $3.02 per gallon. Prices are down about 14 cents per gallon from the average a month ago. 

Detroiters celebrate 313 Day 

Happy 313 Day Detroit! Named for the city’s legendary area code established in the 1940s, and taking place each year on March 13, 313 Day offers an opportunity for residents to celebrate all things Detroit. There are several events and activities planned around the city, including at the Masonic Temple, Robert C. Valade Park, Baker’s Keyboard Lounge, the Joe Louis Greenway and more. Several small businesses like City Bird, Atwater Brewery, Buddy’s Pizza, Mezcal Mexican Restaurant and others have special deals for the day. Many Detroit area McDonald’s locations are also offering a 313 Day meal, which includes a double filet-o-fish, four-piece McNuggets, medium fries and a Vernors Boston Cooler ice cream drink. 

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

Tonight on The Detroit Evening Report, we cover former Detroit Police Chief James Craig’s mayoral candidacy announcement; President Donald Trump’s nomination of Dearborn Heights mayor Bill Bazzi as the next U.S. Ambassador to Tunisia; and more.

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James Craig for mayor of Detroit

Former Detroit Police Chief James Craig announced his plans to run for mayor of the city Wednesday morning at an event at the Executive Cuts barber shop in Detroit.

“I stand before you, not as a candidate, but as someone who has walked these streets,” he said.

Craig — who served as Detroit’s police chief from 2013 until 2021 — has previously run for governor of the state and for one of Michigan’s U.S. Senate seats. He campaigned for both of those offices as a Republican.  Craig is now one of several candidates seeking the mayor’s job, including City Council president Mary Sheffield, former Council president Saunteel Jenkins, current Councilmember Fred Durhal III, pastor Solomon Kinloch and attorney Todd Perkins. 

Bill Bazzi named US ambassador to Tunisia

President Donald Trump has nominated Dearborn Heights mayor Bill Bazzi to be the next U.S. Ambassador to Tunisia.  Trump made the announcement on his TruthSocial platform. 

In the message, Trump praised Bazzi’s time as a U.S. Marine, and his career at Ford Motor Company. Bazzi became the mayor of Dearborn Heights in early 2021. He’s the second metro Detroit mayor nominated by Trump for an ambassadorship. Trump nominated Hamtramck Mayor Amer Ghalib to become the next ambassador to Kuwait. Both Bazzi and Ghalib must be confirmed by the U.S. Senate before the appointments become effective. 

Detroit casinos report revenue dip last month

Detroit’s three casinos are reporting lower revenues for the month of February. Together they posted revenues of $98.8 million.  That’s down 6.4% from the same month last year. 

MGM Grand has the largest share of the market at 47%. Motor City has 27% and Hollywood Casino at Greektown has 24% of the market. Casino profits continue to provide taxes for Detroit. The three gaming houses provided the city with $11.7 million in wagering taxes and development agreement payments. The casinos also paid $7.9 million in state gaming taxes last month. 

Detroit Fire Department continues safety webinars

The Detroit Fire Department is holding another of its safety webinars at 6 p.m. this Wednesday to address fire risks associated with cooking, smoking and lighting candles at home.

The city says nearly a quarter of all home fires in Detroit are connected to cooking. Residents walking away from items left on the stove are a major problem. Webinars on other topics are scheduled for April 9, May 14 and June 11.  You can join any of those webinars at DetroitMI.gov/safetyseries. 

City of Detroit to begin yard waste pickup

The city of Detroit says it will begin picking up yard waste again, beginning on March 31. Residents can place grass clippings, leaves and small twigs in paper lawn bags to be collected weekly. Branches and larger twigs should be bundled together and placed at the curb.  Yard waste in plastic bags will not be collected. Detroit’s yard waste program is scheduled to continue until mid-December, when it will take a break for the winter months. 

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

Tonight on The Detroit Evening Report, we cover Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II’s entry into the 2026 Michigan governor race; an upcoming panel highlight jessica Care moore, Tiff Massey and other women building connections between hip-hop, design and culture; and more.

Subscribe to the Detroit Evening Report on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

Gilchrist makes bid for Michigan governor

Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist declared his candidacy for governor today.
Speaking live on WDET, Gilchrist said he’s the best candidate because he’s delivered for Michigan residents on issues such as housing.

“When I talk to people all across Michigan, including in the city of Detroit, who said that we didn’t have enough affordable housing and that there were not enough people who could afford homes in the city of Detroit, in the state of Michigan, I pushed millions of dollars of funding into our state’s housing trust fund that’s brought 60,000 new housing units online.”

Gilchrist says he’s proud of the work he’s done alongside Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who can’t run again due to term limits. Asked what he would do differently, he said Michigan needs a leader who can make technology such as artificial intelligence work for the people, not victimize them.  He joins Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson in the race for the Democratic Party nomination.

Reporting by Pat Batcheller, WDET

Panel to highlight women connecting design, culture and community

Panel on hip-hop and design Hip Hop Architecture Lecture Series is celebrating Women’s History Month

The University of Detroit Mercy will host a panel discussion celebrating Women’s History Month next Wednesday, March 19, as part of Michael Ford’s Hip Hop Architecture Lecture Series.

Detroit Poet Laureate jessica Care moore, Avalon Village Founder Mama Shu, interdisciplinary artist Tiff Massey, hip-hop artist Mama Sol, Hip-Hop Architecture Fellow Asia Williams, and Hip Hop Architecture Founder Michael Ford will participate in the discussion — which will center around women at the intersection of hip-hop culture and design.

The event, sponsored by Michigan Central, will begin at 6 p.m. with “Bites and Beats,” followed by the panel discussion at 7 p.m. inside U of D’s School of Architecture and Community Development. 

Pulitzer on the Road coming to Michigan Central

A group of Pulitzer Prize winners will gather at Michigan Central later this month to talk about the state of cultural criticism. Journalist, historian and Dean of Columbia School of Journalism Jelani Cobb will moderate the discussion. Detroit Free Press restaurant critic and 2023 Pulitzer finalist Lyndsay Green, film critic Justin Chang from the New Yorker and NPR’s Fresh Air, and New York Times pop culture critic Wesley Moore will be panelists. The free event — part of the Pulitzer on the Road will take place on Wednesday, March 26. The panel discussion starts at 6 p.m. and will be followed by a reception at 7:30 p.m. 

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) issued an advisory this week warning people of a possible travel ban by the Trump administration for Arab, Muslim-majority countries and others.

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The advisory says nationals from Afghanistan, Cuba, Haiti, Iraq, Iran, Lebanon, Libya, Palestine, Pakistan, Somalia, Sudan, Venezuela or Yemen should not leave the U.S.

If people need to travel, they should check with an immigration attorney before traveling. The advisory also says individuals living or traveling in one of those countries should return to the U.S. immediately, saying U.S. citizens may be able to reenter but may undergo a vetting process.

People can contact ADC’s legal intake hotline at 844-ADC-9955 for further assistance.

Other headlines for Monday, March 10, 2025:

• A Detroit Youth Mobility Summit is planned from 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. March 22 at Newlab, Michigan Central.
• The Michigan Clean Water Corps (MiCorps) is looking for volunteers to join a network that collects and shares surface water quality data throughout Michigan.
• Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer says nearly 60,000 students are receiving the Michigan Achievement Scholarship, saving families $252 million in tuition costs.
• The charity organization Mercy-USA for Aid and Development is hosting its second annual book drive, Lanterns for Literacy. Last year, 8,000 books were donated to families in Detroit through the program. The organization is looking for book donations, volunteers or financial gifts to create literacy kits.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

Former Detroit Police Chief James Craig is filing paperwork to run for mayor in this year’s election.

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He filed a “Chief James Craig for Mayor” candidate committee on Monday, allowing him to collect donations for the August primary.

Craig was appointed as the 42nd Chief of Police in 2013. Serving in the role during the 2020 Black Lives Matter demonstrations, the department was scrutinized for excessive force against protestors — accused of using tear gas, pepper spray, rubber bullets, mass arrests and more without probable cause. The protestors ended up filing a lawsuit which resulted in a $1 million settlement with the city.

Craig retired as Detroit’s chief of police in 2021 and then ran for governor in 2022 on the Republican ticket, but was taken off because of alleged fraudulent signatures on his nominating petitions.

Craig joins a seemingly ever-growing list of candidates, including Mega-church pastor Solomon Kinloch Jr., City Council President Mary Sheffield, City Councilman Fred Durhal III, former Michigan House Speaker Joe Tate, nonprofit CEO Saunteel Jenkins, Joel Haashiim and Jonathan Barlow, who are both local businessmen, and attorney Todd Perkins.

Other headlines for Friday, March 7, 2025:

• The Detroit Fire Department is looking to educate residents on fire safety at an upcoming Safety Series Webinar, taking place virtually at 6 p.m. March 12.
• Women in Robotics Michigan is hosting an informal gathering of women interested in robotics at 10 a.m. Sunday, March 16, at Michigan Central. Organizers say it’s an opportunity to network, share ideas, and learn from others in a relaxed setting.
• Next Thursday, March 13, is 313 Day, and there are a ton of events planned to celebrate.
• WDET launched its 2025 Spring Fundraiser on Thursday. All new members who make a gift during the Spring Fundraiser, which ends Sunday, March 15, will also receive a limited edition WDET skyline water bottle.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

Subscribe to the Detroit Evening Report on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

WDET and the Detroit Evening Report have collected Black History Month stories from listeners as a part of its Black History Listening Project.

Here are the stories we aired in February 2025:

Wyatt Tate made headlines in 1894

Detroiter Brenda McGadney grew up hearing stories about her great-grandfather.

Wyatt Tate, a farmer from Alabama, was made infamous after an incident with police arising from an animal being stolen from him while he was away on a business trip. After Tate successfully retrieved the animal, the town sheriff accused him of theft, and during his attempted arrest, Tate killed the sheriff, an assistant and one of the sheriff’s horses. After going on the run and evading police for months, Tate was eventually killed on May 12, 1894. 

Using the internet and genealogical tools for research, McGadney found the story was a very big deal at the time.

“He is documented in more than 80 newspapers in 1894,” she said. “So, it went viral.”

McGadney says growing up, it was important to her mother, Annie Tate McGadney, that they knew of Tate’s story. She had learned it from her own father, Felix Tate, who witnessed the events in 1894.

“My mother brought us up to speak up, not only for yourself, but for other people who are disenfranchised, who you see are being harmed,” she said.

McGadney also found references to Wyatt Tate in Harper Lee’s ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ and in books about Lee who grew up in Monroeville. A cousin, actor and boxer Bill Tate, wrote a fictionalized account, “Little Wyatt Tate: Fiction Based on Fact.”

“When you travel in Africa, the question that Africans ask you, ‘Where do you come from?’” McGadney says, “I tell them that is a very painful question to ask an African American, and they don’t really understand it. We don’t know where we came from.”

McGadney says she has become her family’s griot, holding the stories of both sides of her family.

“This history is rich, and it covers both my mom’s side, which would be the Tates and the Clarks, and my dad’s side, which would be the Baldwins and the Jacksons and the McGadneys,” she said. “You need to be telling your story, and it empowers your children. It empowers our family.”

Iola Corbett witnessed the rise of Detroit’s Muslim community

Iola Corbett, also known as Sister Ameeda, was born and raised in Detroit.

Corbett’s family was a part of the Nation of Islam when she was a child.

Over the years she met Malcolm X, who visited her family’s restaurant in Detroit often.

“My mother was an excellent cook, so he had dinner with my dad every day, so I got to hear him, and I would serve him. He was a big influence in my family’s life,” she said.

Corbett says the Nation of Islam made her a part of something bigger.

“It…gave me a purpose of who I was, who I wanted to be…close with my community,” she explained.

Corbett would go on to become a union leader and to write the book  “Growing Up Muslim and the Journey Continues.”

Carolyn Clifford tells her mom’s story

WXYZ TV reporter and anchor Carolyn Clifford tells the story of her mother often. She says she wants to inspire women dealing with domestic violence to leave, and to prove to children in Detroit that they can succeed despite hardship.

“I always tell Detroiters, especially young kids, when you see me, you see you,” Clifford said. “ So if your mom was on drugs, or your daddy on drugs, or, you know, somebody’s drinking alcohol…don’t be ashamed. There’s always a way out of a crazy situation, as I learned from my own mom.”

“And she would always say, you know, with God on her side, she could do anything.”

Bruce Simpson remembers Barbara-Rose Collins

Bruce Simpson’s grandmother was the first Black woman to represent Michigan in the U.S. House of Representatives. Barbara-Rose Collins served in Congress from 1991 to 1997. She also worked in politics at the city and state level.

But Simpson says he wasn’t really aware that Collins was the “distinguished lady from Michigan.”

“I always just looked at her as grandma,” Simpson said.

Simpson has also entered public service. He is the Ombudsman for the City of Detroit.

WDET listeners are invited to share Black history stories about their families, friends and neighbors throughout the year via email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org or by leaving us a voice memo in the WDET mobile app.