Transformation of Detroit’s Fisher Body Plant Boosted by $1M Michigan Grant

A $1 million grant was given by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy to assist in converting the abandoned Fisher Body Plant 21 in Detroit into homes.

EGLE stated on Thursday that the $1 million Brownfield Redevelopment Grant would take care of the transportation, disposal, and examination of contaminated soil.

According to a news release, the investment would also help with the installation of a vapor mitigation system and the cleaning of a leaking subterranean storage tank.

On the first floor of the $153 million project, there will be 434 residential units and 44,000 square feet of commercial space.

In a statement, Brian Vosburg, senior director of Brownfield renovation at the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation, stated, “We are thrilled that EGLE is providing a significant grant to assist in the redevelopment of this historic, highly visible, and very challenging site. EGLE has long been a critical partner to the City for the cleanup and redevelopment of many of Detroit’s most environmentally challenged properties.”

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The historic facility will be transformed into mixed-use housing, including affordable housing and retail space, the city of Detroit stated in 2022.

Built in 1919, the 105-year-old Fisher Body facility was operated by General Motors until 1984.

In 2010, EGLE discovered lead paint and asbestos-containing materials within the plant, and the subterranean storage tank was removed. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency eliminated polychlorinated biphenyl-contaminated soil and equipment in 2008.

It is anticipated that the renovation will be finished by summer 2026.

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