Detroit, Michigan – The iconic Packard Plant in Detroit, a symbol of urban decay, is set to be fully demolished by the end of the year to make way for a new automotive-related facility, announced Mayor Mike Duggan during a press conference on Monday.
The city marked the beginning of the third phase of demolition at the historic site, which once housed a luxury automaker nearly 70 years ago. City officials expressed their commitment to transforming the 42-acre property, reclaiming it from blight and revitalizing the area with a new automotive factory in the next two years.
“This project signifies a significant milestone in our mission to eliminate blight and revitalize Detroit,” said LaJuan Counts, director of the Detroit Construction and Demolition Department. “It embodies Detroit’s resilience and dedication to renewal, as we honor the past while embracing future possibilities for our city.”
The demolition process, spearheaded by Detroit-based contractor Adamo Group, began at 5409 Concord Street, a section comprising about 200,000 square feet. This phase of the project is expected to last five months and cost $1.2 million, with additional portions of the plant scheduled for demolition using funds from the American Rescue Plan Act.
City officials have been steadily working towards the complete demolition of the Packard Plant, with ongoing environmental abatements and plans for $12 million worth of demolition on the horizon. The site has a storied history, last serving as an active industrial facility in 1956 and hosting various businesses until the late 1990s.
Despite challenges faced by the previous developer, efforts are underway to transform the space into a vibrant employment center over the next two years. While the city plans to preserve a portion of the plant as a nod to its history, the goal is to attract new developments and economic opportunities to the area.
As the demolition progresses, Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield remains optimistic about the future of the site, underscoring the city’s commitment to eliminating blight and fostering growth in the community. Residents and officials alike express hope for a new chapter in the Packard Plant’s legacy, envisioning a space that brings the community together and supports local initiatives.
The ambitious project reflects Detroit’s ongoing transformation and resilience, showcasing a commitment to revitalizing historic sites and creating spaces that drive economic growth and community development. With plans to open bids for development proposals in the coming months, the city looks towards a bright future for the Packard Plant location and the surrounding neighborhoods.