Detroit, Michigan, October 27, 2025
Construction crews have begun demolishing the unfinished Wayne County jail in Detroit to clear a 14-acre site for future redevelopment. The action follows the opening of a new criminal justice center and allows the county to vacate the old structure. Developers plan to transform the land into an innovation district focused on entrepreneurship, technology and life sciences, including a proposed 220,000-square-foot Life Science Innovation Building with research and outpatient facilities. Officials say the project will enhance public infrastructure, improve safety and aesthetics, attract investment, and create jobs to support economic growth in the surrounding community.
Detroit Begins Demolition of Old Wayne County Jail to Make Way for Redevelopment
Detroit, Michigan – Construction crews have commenced the demolition of the former Wayne County jail, clearing the site for future development projects aimed at revitalizing the area and enhancing public infrastructure.
Demolition Initiated
The demolition of the old Wayne County jail in Detroit has begun, marking a significant step in the city’s efforts to redevelop the site and improve urban spaces. This action follows the completion of the new Wayne County Criminal Justice Center, which consolidates various justice functions into a modern facility. The demolition paves the way for future construction and redevelopment, contributing to the city’s ongoing efforts to enhance public infrastructure and urban spaces.
Background on the Site
The former jail site has a complex history. Construction on the original facility began in 2011 but was halted in 2013 due to significant cost overruns, leaving the structure incomplete. In 2018, Wayne County partnered with Dan Gilbert’s Rock Ventures to build a new criminal justice complex at a different location near I-75 and I-94. This partnership led to the development of the new Wayne County Criminal Justice Center, which opened in August 2024. The completion of this new facility allowed the county to vacate the old jail site, enabling the demolition and clearing of the area for future redevelopment projects.
Future Plans for the Site
Plans for the redevelopment of the former jail site include transforming it into an innovation district that supports entrepreneurship, life sciences, and technology. Bedrock, the real estate firm involved in the development, has proposed a 220,000-square-foot Life Science Innovation Building to house a research and outpatient center for pioneering new medical treatments. This initiative aims to revitalize the area and attract new businesses and investments to Detroit.
Impact on the Community
The demolition and subsequent redevelopment of the former jail site are expected to have a positive impact on the community. By removing the unfinished structure and repurposing the land for productive use, the city aims to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the area, improve safety, and attract future investments. The creation of an innovation district is anticipated to generate new job opportunities and contribute to the economic growth of Detroit.
Conclusion
The commencement of demolition at the former Wayne County jail site signifies a pivotal moment in Detroit’s ongoing efforts to revitalize urban spaces and improve public infrastructure. The planned redevelopment into an innovation district reflects the city’s commitment to fostering economic growth and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
FAQ
- What is the current status of the former Wayne County jail site in Detroit?
- The demolition of the old Wayne County jail in Detroit has begun, marking a significant step in the city’s efforts to redevelop the site and improve urban spaces.
- What were the original plans for the Wayne County jail, and why were they halted?
- Construction on the original facility began in 2011 but was halted in 2013 due to significant cost overruns, leaving the structure incomplete.
- What is the new development planned for the former jail site?
- Plans for the redevelopment of the former jail site include transforming it into an innovation district that supports entrepreneurship, life sciences, and technology.
- How is the community expected to benefit from the redevelopment?
- The demolition and subsequent redevelopment of the former jail site are expected to have a positive impact on the community by enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the area, improving safety, and attracting future investments.
- When is the demolition expected to be completed?
- The demolition is currently underway, but specific completion dates have not been announced.
Key Features of the Redevelopment Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Site Area | 14 acres |
| Proposed Building | 220,000-square-foot Life Science Innovation Building |
| Primary Tenant | BAMF Health’s research and outpatient center |
| Target Industries | Entrepreneurship, life sciences, technology |
| Expected Benefits | Job creation, economic growth, urban revitalization |
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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.