Earlier this week, Detroit City Council approved an extension for the Parade Co. to raise the funds and start construction on the redevelopment of the Brodhead Armory, next to Gabriel Richard Park on East Jefferson.
According to the Detroit News, the Parade Co. has to start construction by October 1, 2025 and complete it by August 1, 2027.
The group has plans to move from their warehouse near Hamtramck into the historic building, along with adding an extension to the building by the waterfront. The building would house float construction, events, summer camps, and a space for veterans.
The building dates back to 1930 and was designated a Michigan State Historic Site in 1980. It had various uses throughout the years, including training and education for sailors and headquarters for the 1st Battalion of the 24th Marines. The building closed in 2004.
The Parade Co. signed a development agreement for the site with the Detroit Economic Growth Corp. in 2021. But they can't start until they have $36 million raised; so far they've raised $14.5 million.
