Detroit, Michigan, January 9, 2026
Henry Ford Health and BAMF Health have announced a partnership to convert the former Wayne County Consolidated Jail site in Detroit into a Life Science Innovation Building. This 220,000-square-foot facility will focus on cancer detection, precision medicine education, and foster innovation through various educational and entrepreneurial initiatives. The project aims to boost the local economy by creating jobs and attracting significant investments, positioning Detroit as a leading center for healthcare innovation.
Detroit, Michigan
Henry Ford Health and BAMF Health have partnered to develop a life sciences facility on the former Wayne County Consolidated Jail site in Detroit, commonly known as the “fail jail” site. This collaboration aims to transform the 14-acre property into a hub for innovation and healthcare.
Project Overview
The development includes a 220,000-square-foot Life Science Innovation Building, which will serve as both a research and outpatient facility for BAMF Health. The building will feature:
- 45,000 square feet dedicated to cancer detection and research by BAMF Health.
- Space for Ferris State University to expand its offerings in precision medicine and K-12 STEM education.
- 150,000 square feet allocated to Michigan Innovation Headquarters (MI-HQ) for lab space.
- Wayne State University’s TechTown Detroit entrepreneurship hub to foster start-ups.
Economic and Community Impact
This initiative is expected to:
- Attract significant investment to Detroit’s economy.
- Create numerous jobs in the biotech and life sciences sectors.
- Position Detroit as a leading center for innovation and healthcare.
Background
The “fail jail” site has a history of stalled development. Originally intended for a regional jail, the project was abandoned due to escalating costs and mismanagement. In a land swap deal, Bedrock acquired the land from Wayne County and is now leading the transformation into a life sciences campus. This project is part of a broader effort to revitalize Detroit’s downtown area and establish it as a hub for innovation and economic growth.
Related Developments
Other significant projects contributing to Detroit’s revitalization include:
- The Michigan Central Campus in Corktown, a 110-acre tech hub.
- The University of Michigan Center for Innovation, under construction on the west side of downtown.
- The Future of Health Campus, a collaboration between Henry Ford Health and Michigan State University in New Center.
These initiatives collectively aim to transform Detroit into a leading center for innovation, technology, and healthcare.
Key Features of the Development
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Former Wayne County Consolidated Jail site, Detroit, Michigan |
| Size | 220,000-square-foot Life Science Innovation Building |
| Key Tenants | BAMF Health, Ferris State University, MI-HQ, Wayne State University’s TechTown Detroit |
| Focus Areas | Cancer detection and research, precision medicine, K-12 STEM education, biotech start-ups |
| Economic Impact | Attract investment, create jobs, position Detroit as a center for innovation and healthcare |
FAQ
What is the “fail jail” site in Detroit?
The “fail jail” site refers to a 14-acre property in Detroit that was originally intended for a regional jail. The project was abandoned due to escalating costs and mismanagement, leaving the site partially constructed for over a decade.
What is the purpose of the new Life Science Innovation Building?
The Life Science Innovation Building aims to serve as a research and outpatient facility for BAMF Health, focusing on cancer detection and research. It will also provide space for Ferris State University, MI-HQ, and Wayne State University’s TechTown Detroit to foster innovation and support start-ups.
How will this development impact Detroit’s economy?
The development is expected to attract significant investment, create numerous jobs in the biotech and life sciences sectors, and position Detroit as a leading center for innovation and healthcare, contributing to the city’s economic growth and revitalization.
What other major projects are contributing to Detroit’s revitalization?
Other significant projects include the Michigan Central Campus in Corktown, the University of Michigan Center for Innovation, and the Future of Health Campus, a collaboration between Henry Ford Health and Michigan State University in New Center. These initiatives collectively aim to transform Detroit into a leading center for innovation, technology, and healthcare.
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Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
