Michi

That view of St. Johns must be looking east. You can see the US-127 freeway behind the city. I remember when I was younger before the freeway was built, the primary connection to Lansing from the north was the divided highway that went right through St. Johns. It was a disaster, as traffic was always so heavy and the many stoplights through town caused big backups. This was the slowest and most frustrating of the 4-5 hour drive from up north. Now, with the freeway, it's almost a guaranteed 4 hour drive. I haven't been back to St. Johns since the freeway bypass opened in like '98 or '99.

What does this all look like from Belknap Hill?

Last I checked, I thought I remember the last phase of Woodward was suppose to start last November. Wasn't surprised when it never happened. It's very "Detroit" for public timelines to mean absolutely nothing. It will get done, it's just that the public doesn't know when. UCCA does I'm sure (since they're dictating it). Cass already has one phase of streetscape improvements finished. It is the section where nothing exists yet just north of WSU and I-94. Go figure that that area was phase 1 when the section between Warren and I-94 (WSU Main Campus) often struggles to light itself at night. I know, I know, who decides these things? Though I don't know for certain, I'm left to believe that Cass will get the same treatment the northern end of it did. Perhaps as Techtown evolves and all that money is pumped into it over the next 2-3 (or 8 ) Years.

Yes, I believe the Michigan Avenue Streetscape project includes all the way to Campus Martius. Other phases are already complete on the far west side (near the Dearborn border) and in Corktown (Slows/Old Tiger Stadium). It is just a matter of time (and phases) kinda like Woodward, that the rest of Michigan gets re-streetscapped. Woodward also has one phase left, from north of Mack to Wayne State/Warren.

I guess it's just the sentimental place in history and it's significance. That being Detroit just doesn't build midrise office structures like this "out of the blue" any more. I suppose it's the fact that it is a nondescript building that just lays low is what makes it so cool and appreciated.

I didn't know it replaced quality housing either. (?)

I'm digging the stonework (exterior and interior) as well as the interior multi-level water feature! Thanks for the visual updates and renderings.

Security has also been heightened. In addition to entrances being sealed, there are guards parked in cars on the sidewalk on Washington Blvd. Must be an expensive security method given zero profit of the building.

Remember the below-grade riverfront freeway proposal connecting the bridge to the tunnel? I don't think I have, nor will I ever hear anything more rediculous in my lifetime. If there is one thing, one thing at all that will have me packing my bags without thinking twice, it will be the construction of that. I know it won't happen though, and that I have nothing to worry about.

Tipping point-minus-transit potential, yes. I think there is a ways to go with critical mass yet. It's beefing up, but is still going to take a lot of convincing (particularly to retailers) that Central Detroit can support stiff market rate retail amenity. I'm not doubting that it can't, but I think true critical mass would set a standard and status quo that most middle class retailers and businesses can establish without high risk. I think what we have now are islands of what we'll have in the future. These islands need to have contiguous connectivity, including better efficiency in crossing Woodward. When that starts to be accomplished, I think a firmer understanding of critical mass will start to take hold. To illustrate my point, I kept saying to myself today as I was photographing the properties was..."well, someday soon all these developments won't HAVE to have gated parking." But for the time being (until we can reach critical mass), it's just a necessary evil. I even had to roll my eyes when I was riding bike up Cass near (south) of WSU and still find piles of fresh automobile window glass car-lengths apart, block upon block on the curb. Woodward and John R. have still have this problem too, as do the east-west streets.

If I'm still in Michigan, I'll be sure to do updates periodically!

Research Lofts, North Trumbull Avenue. Bonnie Bridge Townhouses, Woodbridge. Ok, I can work with that. A fun rehab I haven't noticed until now (on Trumbull). The Motor City Casino serves as the backdrop to Detroit's Miracle Mile. Wondering who's bright idea was the 3-story wall. Seriously, what tragedy would windows do? From the Lodge Fwy. Mantra moved in to Cass & Peterboro from Hamtramck (I believe). Some of you may remember the old pet store that use to be here. Willy's looking as sharp as ever! I LOVE this development. ...as I do 55 W. Canfield...installing the balconies. Canfield frontage Woodward side. Lights on at night! MidMed, also on Canfield (E). Got carried away again. John R. and Canfield More to come Saturday.

December 15, 2006 (The last 2006 construction installment for me). South Wing of the DIA Expansion Lofts at New Amsterdam - now moving in Security system good to go Nice little pedestrian corridor between the two buildings What's across the street you ask? Who want to make renovation bets? The changing face of TechOne The future of the auto industry - NextEnergy fuel cell laboratories New Amsterdam/New Center Lofts The windows look increadible. It's hard to believe the blight this building use to be. Sorry, I got a little carried away: It's the place to live if you like to watch trains go by (like me)! The Argonaut Building...when, when, and when? 'Skuse me a second... Ok. Could the future of the NBC Building be near?

...and 100% of the retail. (kidding)...although, sometimes it seems like it.

That's my church. Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament. I've been meaning to take pictures of the inside for some time now.

comics

Detroit Skyline from Fairlane Green, Allen Park - December 03, 2006

Mmm, with this winter weather blowing through, a big bowl of chili might sound rather tastey!

...and fate that squatters didn't burn them ALL down in the winter months...just ALMOST ALL of them. [/le'sigh]

Hmmm, I don't know. I passed MidMed Lofts today. They are looking great as well. Pics hopefully to come soon...maybe next week.

Maybe almost 2 years? There is a whole addition on the back side that is brand new construction. I don't think the whole building is finished yet because not all condos sold...and I'm pretty sure each unit is built to suit.

Carillon, University of Detroit Mercy