Here are a few of the stories we're reading this week.
Could offices turn residential?
A proposed bill in Congress could incentivize developers to turn office space into residential. Kirk Pinho at Crain's dives into whether this is needed in Detroit, whose downtown has markedly fewer residents than other similar cities (geographically, Detroit is much larger than these cities). Bedrock supports the legislation, but doesn't have any current plans for office-to-residential conversions. Don't count out the suburbs - there's plenty of office space all around the metro area.
Lear gets to work on new eastside factory
Earlier this year, the city announced that the old Cadillac Stamping Plant would be torn down and Lear would build a new factory in its place. Prep work has started on the $48 million project, which will supply parts for electric vehicles. The factory will be located near Conner and 94 and will employ 450 people. It's expected to be completed in mid-2022. DBusiness
Preserving a truly historic home
A few years ago, the city received a $500,000 grant from the National Park Service to preserve the history of the Dr. Ossian Sweet house on the city's east side. In 1925, a mob of angry white residents gathered outside the home of the Black doctor, throwing rocks and bottles and eventually rushing toward the family home. One man in the mob was killed as the family tried to protect themselves. A historic trial, with Clarence Darrow representing defending Dr. Sweet, resulted in the family being acquitted -- a major Civil Rights victory. The city is now taking bids for contractors who want to work on the restoration of the home. The house will be turned into an interactive museum. Fox2
More residential coming to West Village
In 2017, the Coe became the first new construction development in West Village in decades. The same developers are planning to build bigger just across the street. The proposal calls for 53 apartments and five townhouses; two homes on the property would be demolished. Construction would start next year. It's led by Woodborn Partners, and its up for discussion in the next Historic District Commission meeting. Crain's
For sale: A historic burger joint
Miller's Bar in Dearborn went up for sale this week, as its owners get ready to retire. The 81-year-old bar, known for its burgers, is listed for $4 million. They've received a lot of calls since the listing. Will the new owners keep it cash only? Here's to hoping it doesn't change too much. Detroit News