Update: Multiple outlets report that Ross is in talks with the Ilitches for land behind Fox Theatre in the District Detroit.
One of the largest developments planned in the city is moving locations. In late 2019, Bedrock and Stephen Ross announced plans to build the Detroit Center for Innovation at the former site of the Wayne County jail (long called the fail jail site). Ross released a statement today that keeps the development in the works, but in a yet-to-be-determined location in the city.
“The pandemic illustrated the need for the Detroit Center for Innovation to have a greater catalytic economic and social impact on the people of Detroit which was not possible at its current site,” said Stephen Ross, Chairman of Related Companies. “I am more committed than ever to deliver my vision of an innovation hub in my hometown, and I reaffirm my commitment to the people of Detroit and the University of Michigan to create inclusive growth that propels job creation, affordable housing development and historic preservation for all Detroiters. We’re planning to move the DCI to a new location in the city with more space to ensure that we deliver.”
When announced, the first phase of the development called for a 190,000-square-foot education and research center in downtown Detroit, along with residential, hotel, and event space.
Bedrock owns the 14-acre former jail site at 1400 Saint Antoine Street, near Greektown, Eastern Market, and downtown. Bedrock CEO Kofi Bonner tells Crain's that the site will be home to an innovation district.
Ross's Related Companies has recently been linked to a smaller residential development with the Platform near the Ilitch properties and Cass Corridor.
