A total demolition was the plan. But now General Motors has changed its mind and delivered a plan for what will become of the iconic Renaissance Center when the group moves headquarters.
General Motors has dropped plans to demolish its Renaissance Center headquarters. At least all at once.
Earlier this year, the auto giant said it would move its headquarters to Hudson's Detroit in 2025, leaving the current building completely empty.
But now General Motors and real estate developer Bedrock have presented plans for a comprehensive renovation of the Renaissance Center. The goal is to adapt the building to today's needs while maintaining its distinctive profile in Detroit's streetscape.
The plan involves the demolition of the two office towers closest to the Detroit River as well as the removal of the complex's low-rise office buildings.
According to General Motors and Bedrock, this will remove outdated office space and create a more open and welcoming environment.
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The three remaining main towers will be redeveloped into a mix of residential and hotel facilities. The area will be made available to the public. Just as a new promenade is to be built.
The project is a comprehensive undertaking involving 27 hectares of land and aims to transform the Renaissance Center into an attractive waterfront destination. At least that's what the property developer says,
General Motors and Bedrock have committed to finance the majority of the project. While the remaining part will probably end up as a bill that the taxpayers have to eat.
The Renaissance Center opened in 1976 and was purchased by General Motors two decades later. The automaker has invested over $1 billion in the facilities. But have decided to move 'further down the street' to a cheaper and smaller complex which is currently still being built.
Specifically, General Motors has signed a 15-year lease with the owners of Hudson's Detroit. The agreement means that General Motors will also have space to exhibit the group's car models and an area for community activities. However, the car group will not elaborate on those plans further.
