DETROIT (WWJ) - The University of Michigan (U of M) has broken ground in the city where it all began.
Groundbreaking took place on the site of the new University of Michigan Center for Innovation (UMCI) in downtown Detroit on Thursday. The massive project, located on Cass Avenue off of the Fisher Freeway and Grand River, aims to turn some of the endless parking lots in the District Detroit into a thriving educational campus.
"When complete, it will be a world-class research, education and entrepreneurship center," U of M President Santa Ono said, proceeding to address students from nearby Cass Technical High School, who were present for the ceremonial event.
"One that educates and retains world-class talent. One that drives innovation and economic growth and job creation. And one that empowers the next generation of Detroiters - yes, that's you over there - let's hear it for the next generation of Detroiters."
According to Ono, this makes for a dream homecoming, as the U of M, originally known as the University of Michigania, got its start in Detroit along Bates Street in 1817.
UMCI will be funded by a $100 million gift from donor Stephen M. Ross, $100 million from the state of Michigan, a land donation of 2.08 acres from Olympia Development of Michigan, and an additional $50 million will be raised from donors.
"This will bring corporations to Detroit," said Ross, a billionaire developer.
"Those jobs will grow this city. It won't be just this area that grows, but the whole state grows."
Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, and CEO of Ilitch Companies, Christopher Ilitch, also presented remarks during the ceremony.
Other featured speakers from U of M included the chair of the Board of Regents, Sarah Hubbard; provost and executive vice president for academic affairs, Laurie McCauley; and executive vice president and chief financial officer, Geoff Chatas.
Construction of the $250 million center is expected to take three years.
The project has been five years in the making.