To dispel recent falsehoods being made about the redevelopment of Northland Mall that are being made by anti-development interests, we would like to quell concerns that have been expressed about the soil at the site.

 

Soil stockpiles were introduced onto the Northland site by the City of Southfield during the City’s ownership.  According to City officials, most recently at the City Council planning session on April 21, 2026, the stockpiles were from road projects within the City limits.  The City had conducted environmental tests of the soils.  Following our acquisition of the site, the soil stockpiles were tested again by our environmental consultant in connection with confirming “eligible activities” in accordance with the requirements of Act 381 and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation- approved Brownfield Agreement was entered into with the Southfield Brownfield Redevelopment Authority.  The soils have been, and will continue to be, handled in compliance with all applicable state and federal law including EGLE regulations applicable to mixed use developments and our approved Due Care Plan.  So the community is aware, our site is secured with fencing and 24 hour security to prevent illegal access to the Northland site.  Also, we intend to reuse some of the soil onsite to fill and balance different locations as the development progresses.  

 

Recently, there have been media reports that contaminated soil from the Northland site was being diverted to fill residential lots in the City of Detroit.  The Detroit Police Department contacted us to assist with their investigation.  We were happy to assist DPD with their investigation, and we learned that a contractor with no affiliation or relationship with us was the subject of that investigation.  We are not aware of any soil from Northland being diverted to the City of Detroit, nor has DPD informed us that any of the Northland soil made its way to Detroit.  Any soil shipped offsite was sent to a licensed landfill facility in compliance with applicable state and federal laws and regulations. 

 

The soil at Northland has been and will continue to be handled in accordance with state and federal laws.  The soil at Northland does not pose an illegal threat to public health.  We appreciate your concern and interest in our project, and we look forward to continuing with the exciting redevelopment of the former Northland Mall.