RenCen To Live On After GM’s Exit As Automaker Presents Redevelopment Plan

Earlier this year, General Motors announced plans to move their headquarters from the Renaissance Center to Hudson’s Detroit in 2025. This left the fate of the city’s most iconic building up in the air and there was talk of demolition.

However, it’s largely been saved as GM and Bedrock have announced their redevelopment plans. It calls on ‘right sizing’ the RenCen, while also preserving the “essence of Detroit’s skyline.”

More: GM Leaving Renaissance Center For Smaller Detroit HQ

That being said, there could be big changes as the proposal calls for demolishing the two office towers closest to the Detroit River as well as “removing the low-rise base of the complex.” The companies said this would eliminate obsolete office space, while also helping to create a more inviting atmosphere.

The three surviving main towers would be redeveloped to include a mix of housing and hospitality. The site would also be updated to include public spaces, direct access to the buildings, and a new pedestrian promenade.

This would be a massive undertaking as the companies are talking about redeveloping 27 acres and transforming the site into a “vibrant waterfront destination.” GM and Bedrock have committed to funding the majority of the project, but the remainder is contingent on public financing. If it comes through, they’ll move forward with their plans and secure the future of the RenCen.

The Renaissance Center opened in 1976 and was acquired by General Motors two decades later. The automaker has invested over $1 billion (£797 / €955 million) into the facility, but decided to move to a “modern office building that fits the evolving needs of our workforce.” This led them to sign an initial 15-year lease for the top office floors of Hudson’s Detroit as well as a street-level showcase for vehicles and community activations.