One of Detroit's most famous landmarks is growing, and this week announced a significant milestone. The Motown Museum has raised $32 million of its $55 million goal for its expansion project, and Phase Two is starting construction.
Phase One of the project is nearing completion. It involves the renovation of three of the surrounding homes, creating Hitsville NEXT, the museum's new education and creative hub. This location will be home to camps, workshops, and community events centered around music.
Phase Two will see the construction of a new plaza in front of the museum. This is meant to be a community gathering space, in the spirit of Motown artists that would gather in front of the studio while recording.
“The plaza is such an important part of our expansion project. The last year has proven just how important these outdoor spaces are to thriving communities, and we are thrilled to create something that has been much needed in our city,” said Robin Terry, chairwoman and CEO of the Motown Museum. “The new Motown Museum plaza will be a place where residents and tourists from around the globe can come to bask in Motown music, be entertained by pop-up performances and connect with other Motown fans on the very grounds where the Motown Sound was born and music history was made.”
The plaza should be completed in Summer of 2022, when the museum plans to open again.
When completed, the full expansion will also include a new theater, recording studios, and expanded retail space.
