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Attainable Housing through Technology: Gov. Whitmer, MSHDA Celebrate Start of Construction on Detroit’s First 3D-printed Home
October 18, 2022
Media Contacts:
- Katie Bach, BachK@michigan.gov
- Anna Vicari, VicariA@michigan.gov
Citizen Robotics founder, MSHDA and project architect to speak on the project’s impact on homebuilding innovation
LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) celebrated the construction kickoff of Detroit’s first 3D-printed home during a Wall Printing Ceremony in Detroit today. The event, hosted by Citizen Robotics, is the first step in utilizing and investing in advanced homebuilding techniques in Michigan.
The construction of the two-bedroom, 1,000-sq. ft. home, meant for senior living, will utilize robots and 3D-printing technology to lower construction cost, minimize environmental impact and attract and train young people in advanced construction techniques.
“3D-printed homes are an innovative, cutting-edge endeavor with the potential to change the affordable, attainable housing landscape in Michigan,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “Today’s Citizen Robotics project is an exciting first step as we continue exploring innovative homebuilding programs. If this pilot proves that we can effectively scale up the 3D-printed home production, we can lower construction costs, reduce environmental impact, and create good-paying jobs. Together, let’s build more places for people to call home.”
The ceremony began with words from Citizen Robotics Founder Tom Woodman, the architect of the project Bryan Cook and Director of Neighborhood Housing Initiatives at MSHDA, Tonya Joy, who discussed the purpose of the project and its impact on the future of homebuilding. Following the remarks, attendees were able to witness the first walls of Detroit’s inaugural 3D-printed home be printed.
“This initiative is an exciting part of MSHDA and the governor’s goal to increase Michigan’s stock of safe, attainable housing for folks across the state,” said Joy. “We believe alleviating Michigan’s housing issues will take a collective effort between housing developers and government organizations to implement thoughtful and impactful programs – and 3D-printed homes could be a part of that solution.”
This project productively supports desired goals for the City of Detroit, including walkable neighborhoods, increased affordable housing, support for minority real estate developers, among others, and was made possible via a grant from MSHDA, according to Citizen Robotics.
Michigan residents can learn more about MSHDA’s efforts to address housing issues at https://www.michigan.gov/mshda.
About MSHDA
The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), established in 1966, provides financial and technical assistance through public and private partnerships to create and preserve safe and decent affordable housing, engage in community economic development activities, develop vibrant cities, towns and villages, and address homeless issues.
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