Northland City Center Sports Facility Moves Forward

Southfield City Council Advances Next Phase of Review

Author

christine Zyla
April 28, 2026

On Monday evening, April 27, 2026, the Southfield City Council voted to allow the proposed Detroit Rising sports facility at Northland City Center to move forward to the next stages of review and planning.

The decision marks another step in transforming the former Northland Center site into a walkable mixed-use district designed to bring new activity, investment, and opportunity to the community.

A Look Back at Northland Mall

When Northland Mall opened in 1954, it was one of the nation’s first regional shopping centers and served as a major economic driver for Southfield for decades.

After years of decline, the mall closed in 2015.

In the years that followed, the City of Southfield undertook the complex work of preparing the site for redevelopment. That effort included:

  • Clearing liens

  • Assembling property interests

  • Establishing a long-term vision for the property

  • Securing a development partner

Today, that vision continues to take shape through the ongoing redevelopment of Northland City Center.

Why the Sports Facility Matters

The proposed sports facility is expected to bring more than 200,000 visiting families to the district each year, with the largest concentration of activity expected between November and March.

That increase in visitors could create new opportunities for:

  • Small businesses

  • Restaurants

  • Hotels

  • Coffee shops

  • Service providers

Especially during winter months, when customer traffic is often slower.

“The vision for Northland is ambitious. Transforming a traditional mall surrounded by parking lots into a true mixed-use district takes time. But this is where years of planning and preparation begin to turn into visible results.”

Molly LaLone, Executive Director, Southfield Downtown Development Authority

What Happens Next?

The proposal will continue through additional review steps, including future site plan review, as development planning moves forward.

The Southfield Downtown Development Authority will continue supporting redevelopment efforts throughout the Historic Cornerstone District through:

  • Economic development

  • Placemaking

  • Infrastructure improvements

  • Business attraction initiatives

All aimed at creating a vibrant district for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

Learn More About the Cornerstone District

The Historic Cornerstone District is home to major redevelopment projects, regional trail connections, medical and educational institutions, and growing business investment throughout southeast Southfield.