The progress of development along Woodward Avenue near the QLINE continues, with a $7.5 million project at the corner of Woodward and Grand Boulevard, part of which will bring a building from 1896 to life.
It’s being headed up by Midtown Detroit, Inc., an organization that has been an engine for development in the area, who along with its partners announced Friday the redevelopment of Woodward Grand and the North End Collective.
The Woodward Grand building, which is located on the southeast corner of Woodward Avenue and West Grand Boulevard, will include a total of 10,000 sq. ft. of retail space, 10,000 sq. ft. of office space and 10 units of housing according to Midtown Detroit, Inc. The plan is that 30% of the units would be affordable.
Additionally, it is the new headquarters for the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation and will feature a new restaurant, Wilda’s Café, a concept from a founder of the acclaimed Rose’s Fine Food.
The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation will be moving their headquarters to the second floor of the Woodward Grand. The Foundation announced it is committing a $500,000 grant to Midtown Detroit, Inc. to implement a series of green, sustainable infrastructure elements into the Woodward Grand project. This is on top of $750,000 committed by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).
With this project, there’s a large focus on being green.
There will be a rooftop garden on Woodward Grand. Rain water cisterns will be used to water the rooftop garden, and what’s grown up there will be used by Wilda’s Café. Harvested water will also be used to service the first floor restrooms.
Living plant materials will extend the life of the mezzanine roof and provide a pleasant view for employees and residents. Recycled and locally sourced materials and LED lighting will be used during construction and beyond in an effort to reduce energy consumption.
Midtown Detroit, Inc. and its partners also announced the opening of the North End Collective, located at 6513 Woodward Avenue, however, that’s been. There are already retail shops as part of the project, including Purple Love, Traveling Pants Co., United Front and Live Coal Gallery.
We’re told to expect more announcements soon as more dollars are coming to this two-block area. In addition to these two projects, another $36.5 million is in the pipeline for this newly christened district called “Woodward Grand” which will all be under construction within the next two years.