The University of Michigan has closed on a plot of land close to where the UM Center for Innovation is under construction. The university purchased the 2.3 acres at 2201 Grand River for $9.5 million, it announced this week.
The land is currently used for an urban garden, Featherstone Garden. UM plans to build a parking structure on the land, with retail on the ground level. It sits next to I-75 and across from the new UMCI, making it easy for students and visitors to park from the freeway.
The UM Center for Innovation broke ground last December and should open in 2027. Additional buildings are planned on that same block, one as an incubator space and one for residential. The UMCI will have both workforce development and master's programs in technology and innovation. It's expected to drive economic development to the city and region.
