DETROIT (WWJ) -- An iconic abaonded building along West Grand Boulevard in Detroit is getting new life.
Lee Plaza has sat vacant for 25 years and served as a longtime symbol of Detroit’s decline.
The 15-story building will now be renovated into 117 units of senior affordable housing in a new $59 million development plan, which includes $7 million that was recently approved by the Detroit City Council.
Mayor Mike Duggan joined developers from The Roxbury Group, Ethos Development Partners, and city and state officials on Thursday, (Jan. 20) at the Plaza to celebrate the financing of the redevelopment project.
“Today is a great day in the city of Detroit,” Duggan said. “Not only are we announcing that we are eliminating a dangerous abandoned building in our community, but we’re creating more than 100 units of senior affordable housing and preserving a historic Detroit landmark at the same time. This announcement is a win for everyone.”
Senior citizens making less than $28,000 who will live in the towers once the project has been completed will pay no more than 30% of their monthly income in rent.
The $7 million contribution from the Detroit City Council that was approved last week comes from funding provided by the Biden Administration’s American Rescue Plan Act.
“I am excited about the proposed redevelopment of Lee Plaza and the associated senior affordable housing planned for the site,” said City Council President Mary Sheffield. “For too long, this structure has stood as an eyesore and symbol of Detroit’s historic struggles with disinvestment and urban decay. Today’s announcement and proposed redevelopment signals a new day and serves as a beacon of hope for the future of the surrounding neighborhood.”
The Roxbury Group and Ethos Development have also partnered in the past to restore other iconic Detroit landmarks that were previously expected to be demolished, including the David Whitney Building, the Metropolitan Building, and the NSO Bell Building.
Construction on the Lee Plaza is expected to begin next year, and completed in 2024.
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