Here are a few of the stories we're reading around Detroit this week.
City Council approves sale of Brodhead Armory
On Tuesday, City Council approved plans for the Parade Co. to purchase the Brodhead Armory. The building sits next to Gabriel Richard Park, east of MacArthur Bridge and across the river from Belle Isle. The Parade Company will demolish the back part of the building and construct a large warehouse. The front of the building will be renovated for their headquarters. The Riverwalk is expected to extend across the property. The Parade Co. needs to raise $40 million for the project, which they expect to do in the next year. (Detroit Free Press)
The Grand Army of the Republic Building goes up for sale
Want to buy one of Detroit's coolest buildings? The GAR building--home to Mindfield, Parks & Rec, and Republic--is now up for sale. COVID is to blame for this one again, seeing as the office, event, and dining spaces just haven't been in use. The owners bought it in 2011 for $220,500 (the Ilitches had it before and did nothing to it) and put $4 million into renovations. How much do you think it could go for this time? (Crain's Detroit)
245 new apartments finally almost ready in Royal Oak
Looking to live in close proximity to LA Fitness, the Detroit Zoo, and 696? The apartment building that's been under construction for three years is nearing the finish line. The Griffin will add 245 apartments and townhouses ranging from $1,400 to $3,950 per month. Amenities include a pool, a common room with games, a fitness center, and dog washing station. Royal Oak Roast will be one of the first tenants in the retail space. Singh Development led this project, and they say there's been a lot of interest from renters so far. (Detroit Free Press)
Too many rentals in the North End?
A neighborhood group is opposing a plan for 180 apartments in the North End. The development team recently presented plans to the Lower North End Block Club; citizens now have a petition to stop the development. The problem? The group thinks it's too many rentals for their area, which has a higher concentration of home owners. (This represents this part of the North End, not the whole neighborhood). The group also cited a lack of community engagement in the process, as well as the amount of land it would take up and the number of market-rate apartments. The development group claims it's returning the North End to the density it once had, which could encourage more businesses to invest in the neighborhood. (Detour Detroit)
