FERNDALE DDA - Key Persons
Melanie Piana is a community champion and a seasoned public servant with specific expertise in urban planning, mobility/transportation, economic development and climate resiliency. Piana has dedicated her career to inclusive, equitable and regional strategies that strengthen Michigan cities including the City of Ferndale, City of Detroit and across the Metro Detroit region.
Piana has served as an elected official representing Ferndale for more than 11 years -- with 10 years as a member of the city council, and one year as mayor. Her commitment to Ferndale includes prioritizing a culture of belonging and wellbeing. In her professional capacity working across municipal borders with public service initiatives have included advances in inclusive neighborhood economic development, mobility and non-motorized street transformations, and community engagement advances.
Piana is a graduate of Albion College and holds a Masters in Urban Planning from Wayne State University. An avid bicyclist and world traveler, Piana and her husband reside in Ferndale.