In a surprising reversal of attitude towards Michigan Central Depot in Detroit, Michigan, the train station and adjoining Roosevelt Warehouse will stand…
In a surprising reversal of attitude towards the Michigan Central Station in Detroit, Michigan, the historic train station and adjoining Roosevelt Warehouse have been granted a temporary reprieve from demolition. The Detroit City Council Public Health and Safety Committee has decided to delay a decision on razing these properties, reversing the April commentary that called for an emergency demolition, citing safety and health hazards.
Manuel Moroun, the owner of the Detroit Bridge Company and the two affected structures, has indicated his need for additional time to negotiate with potential developers. He further elaborated that the federal government expressed strong interest in converting the station into a base for its Homeland Security operations in Detroit just last month.
However, approximately two miles away in downtown Detroit, the Lafayette Building faces an uncertain future after the Downtown Development Authority unanimously voted on June 25 to demolish the 14-story mid-rise structure. Vacant for over a decade and rapidly deteriorating, the office building once housed offices for the esteemed Michigan Supreme Court, in addition to serving various general functions and purposes.
The plan proposes landscaping the site with grass and bushes until a redevelopment strategy can be implemented for the triangular lot. Our fervent hope is that this parcel of land can be used better than the one-story parking garage that replaced the historic Hudson’s Department Store property. Even more desirable would be the full restoration of the Lafayette Building, a potentially more cost-effective and viable alternative in today’s market.
These two architectural icons stand at a crossroads, and their diverging fates serve as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between preserving our cultural heritage and embracing progress. We sincerely hope that the decisions made regarding these structures will be guided by wisdom, foresight, and a deep appreciation for the rich tapestry of Detroit’s history.
