A controversial plan to build more than 100 luxury homes near Ann Arbor, Michigan, is drawing public backlash after residents and environmental advocates warned that the development could damage wetlands and threaten part of the region’s drinking water supply.
The Arbor Preserve North and Arbor Preserve South, a two-part gated community proposed by Toll Brothers, has received approval from the local township, but the developer still needs state permits to move forward.
MLive reported that virtual public hearings held by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) revealed deep concern over Toll Brothers’ request to develop land near wetlands connected to the Rouse Drain, which flows into the Saline River and River Raisin. The proposal includes altering 1.6 acres of wetlands, enclosing roughly 578 feet of stream, and installing culverts, outfalls, and grading that opponents say would fundamentally change the area’s hydrology…