Happy Opening Day! Here are a few of the stories we've been following recently in the Detroit development world.
Packard Plant nears demo
The end is finally near for the blighted Packard Plant. In late March, a judge ordered owner Fernando Palazuelo to demolish the massive industrial site. It's required to be completed by the end of June. The site has become "dangerous" and a "nuisance," deeming the most recent judgment. Palazuelo has owned the site since 2013 and despite announcements for rehab, not much has been done. The demo will cost millions, and Palazuelo likely won't pay for it all. And if he doesn't follow through with the orders, the City of Detroit will come in and take care of it. Detroit News
The Grande hits the market
The historic Grande Ballroom listed for sale this week for $5,000,000. Designed by Charles Agree, the Grande opened in 1928 and was used for decades for jazz, big bands, and ballroom dancing. But it's much more well-known for its run in the 1960s to 1972, hosting local bands like MC5 and the Stooges, and bigger acts like Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, and the Velvet Underground. It's currently owned by the Chapel Hill Missionary Church and listed by Dorsett Brokerage Real Estate. It is in need of an extensive renovation. Metro Times Historic Detroit
A new vision for the Oakland Mall
Can the Oakland Mall be cool again? Probably not, but a 31-year-old developer wants to see some changes. New owner Mario Kiezi of MKiezi Investments wants to bring Gen Z into the mall (an "anti-mall" he calls it), as well as more options for families. Other changes could include rolling the roof back to bring some trees in, and adding a farmer's market. There are a lot of options, and he wants to hear what the public wants, but no firm plans yet. Detroit Free Press
