We could see another groundbreaking on a major development by the end of the year. Last week, Lafayette West received $5 million in brownfield financing by the Michigan Strategic Fund. The $133.1 million development is led by Lafayette Acquisition Partners LLC.
The development, announced in 2018, will bring six five-story buildings with both apartments and for-sale condos to the former site of Shapero Hall. The 5.2 acre site sits just east of 375, bordered by Antietam and Rivard.
“We appreciate all of the support from the community as well as State, City, and County officials in helping us reach this critical milestone in bringing Lafayette West to fruition," says Mark J. Bennett of Lafayette Acquisition Partners LLC. "Our building permit is under review by the City and we expect to commence construction in the fourth quarter.”
Three apartment buildings will face 375, with 60, 72, and 98 units. They each have surface parking with EV charging stations, as well as garage parking. Condo buildings are located along Rivard Street and inside the development, with 18, 35, and 35 residences. These have both carports and garages with EV chargers. A pocket park sits in the northeast corner, with a dog park, a pool, and a clubhouse in the middle of the development. A walking path will circle the development.
The dog run, pool, and clubhouse at Lafayette WestCourtesy of Lafayette West Detroit
About 20 percent of the apartments will be reserved for renters making 80 percent of the Area Median Income. There will be 16,000 square feet of commercial space, targeted for local businesses.
The original plan called for a 12-story tower with low-rise building around it. Plans were scaled back in 2020 due to construction costs. The project has also switched developers from Ginosko to Lafayette Acquisition Partners LLC. Lafayette West went through the Community Benefits Ordinance process in 2018.
More renderings of the final design can be seen in the gallery above.
