Improving vacant lots in Detroit to reduce firearm violence

Firearm violence prevention through community-engaged vacant property reuse: Application of Busy Streets Theory in Detroit

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10398443

This study is looking at how turning empty lots in Detroit into community spaces can help make neighborhoods safer and reduce gun violence, with the help of local residents working together on these projects.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-10398443 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how transforming vacant lots in Detroit into productive community spaces can help reduce firearm violence. By engaging local residents in the process of revitalizing these areas, the project aims to create safer neighborhoods and lower crime rates. The study will analyze firearm incidents and injuries occurring near these revitalized sites to assess the effectiveness of community involvement in violence prevention. The approach includes collaboration with local organizations to implement various reuse strategies such as urban agriculture and green infrastructure.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are residents of Detroit living near vacant lots who are interested in community engagement and violence prevention.

Not a fit: Patients who do not reside in areas with vacant lots or who are not affected by firearm violence may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer communities and a significant reduction in firearm-related violence.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that community engagement in urban greening initiatives can lead to reductions in crime, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.