It’s no secret that Ford has been incredibly proactive in their desire to rebuild their local Detroit communities over the past several years. Now, the Blue Oval brand’s latest attempt includes recently revealed plans for the ongoing restoration project surrounding Michigan Central Station.
This $740 million, multi-year development is a continuation of Ford’s 2018 announcement that it would restore the historic train station, which had been left abandoned since 1988.
Now, Ford has unveiled plans for further expansion of this project, which will include community amenities such as abundant green space, quality retail, housing, parking, and mobility options, all located within a 20-minute walking circuit.
Adjacent to the Michigan Central Station sits the Detroit Corktown neighborhood’s previously abandoned Book Depository. This building, which is currently under renovation, will serve as the district’s industrial center. It will be characterized by co-working areas, hands-on labs, and innovation studios.
Other facilities include “Building West,” which will be located just west of the station, and “The Factory,” which is an existing facility operated by Ford’s autonomous vehicle business unit.
Plans also include a new parking garage and mobility hub which will introduce more than 1,200 parking spaces for Michigan Central workers and the community as a whole.
This 30-acre site was developed by the Ford Motor Company in association with the Practice for Architecture and Urbanism following an 18-month research and planning process with the community.
Ford has referred to the upcoming district as a “neighborhood of the future, by everyone, for everyone” that prioritizes the needs of residents and businesses.
Overall, the project is expected to be completed by the end of 2022.