Curving streets wind through the residential section of South Town Chelsea, 18 miles west of Downtown Ann Arbor. Older homes dating back to the turn of the twentieth century share neighborhood space with new construction houses, creating an eclectic architectural dynamic. In older sections, mature maple trees and evergreens stand sentry in front of houses and estates set on manicured lawns, while saplings spring up in newer subdivisions. It isn't uncommon to find people walking their dogs along clean, paved sidewalks or residents out front watering their gardens. "We have a vibrant and active downtown," says Tammy Lehman, Realtor with Lehman & Scheffler Real Estate Services and Lehman resident. "There are lots of fun events throughout the year, and it's very family-oriented."
An eclectic mix of architectural styles and eras
This community was established in the mid-1800s, and some of the architecture reflects the era. Older homes that need upkeep are priced between $200,000 and $300,000. Newer and remodeled homes range in price from the high $300,000s to the high $600,000s, featuring Colonial Revival, ranch, Tudor and traditional designs. Most homes have garages and lot sizes vary from less than one-eighth of an acre to multiple acres.
Youth and adult programs through the district
The Chelsea School District is a limited school of choice district, meaning students have one application window to apply to a school of choice for the following fall. Young people can start their education at South Meadows Elementary School, which has an A-minus rating from Niche. Beach Middle School has an A score. Chelsea High School also received an A. Chelsea Community Education & Recreation is a Chelsea School District department committed to educating and enriching the community. This goal is achieved through a wide range of after-school classes, clubs and youth camps that cover a variety of subjects across the STEAM spectrum. Adult programs are also available.
Hiking the B2B Trail is a popular pastime
There are plenty of recreational activities in and around the neighborhood. Lehman and her family like to take advantage of the Border-to-Border Trail (B2B), a 35-mile, ADA-accessible, paved pathway comprising six trail corridors connecting to cities, parks, and other destinations throughout Washtenaw County. The corridors pass through fields, forests, wetlands and lakes. "The B2B Trail is a very appealing element for residents," Lehman says. Pierce Park has a play structure, picnic tables, a pavilion, and space to run around. Nearby Pierce Lake Golf Course is a public fairway that caters to golfers of all skill levels.
Nothing like homemade donuts and fresh cider
Polly's Country Market is a family-owned local grocery chain that sells food and essentials at low prices. Jacob's Farm is a 40-acre Centennial Farm offering fresh produce to pick, a bar and restaurant, live music and activities for the whole family. During the fall, residents can get homemade cinnamon donuts and warm apple cider at Jenny's Farm Stand & Cider Mill. Thompson's Pizza is a family-run mainstay with a full bar serving specialty pies, subs and burgers in a relaxed setting. Cleary's Pub is a popular Irish bar and grill with a diverse menu and live music.
Chelsea Community Festival
Downtown Chelsea hosts events throughout the year, including the Chelsea Community Fair, an annual festival with attractions like antique tractor pulls, rodeos, parades and animal judging contests. The Backyard Beer Garden and Chocolate Extravaganza complete the festivities. Lehman's company sponsors Sounds and Sights, an annual summer festival featuring live music and events for every age. "We have a vibrant chamber that hosts a lot of these events. There's free entertainment on every corner," she says.
Commuters can jump on I-94
Interstate 94 skirts the southern border and residents rely on their car for transportation as there is no public transit. "It's a small rural community. You can get from one side of town to the next in seven minutes," Lehman says. Chelsea Hospital is in the community in case of emergency, and the nearest airport is Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, a 40-minute drive.
Crime
South Town Chelsea has a 2/10 CAP score, but it experiences a higher rate of larceny, scoring three compared to the national average of four.
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