General Motors has confirmed plans to relocate its Detroit headquarters to a new downtown office building next year and undertake the redevelopment of its current home along the Detroit River. The announcement was made at the site of the old Hudson’s department store, where a new tower and 12-story office building are being constructed by the Bedrock real estate firm to house GM.
GM, Bedrock, the city, and Wayne County will collaborate on ideas to revamp the seven-building Renaissance Center, the company's current world headquarters. GM CEO Mary Barra emphasized that the move to a modern office space in the heart of the city will enhance the company's ability to attract talent in the future. The new location, situated about a mile north of the Renaissance Center, aims to provide a workspace that aligns with contemporary work styles.
Bedrock Chairman Dan Gilbert highlighted that the new office building on Woodward Avenue is designed to accommodate a major corporation, featuring meeting spaces, retail outlets, a luxury hotel, and living spaces. Mayor Mike Duggan expressed optimism about the partnership between GM and Detroit, stating that the two entities have historically shared a symbiotic relationship.
The future of the Renaissance Center remains uncertain following GM's impending move. Barra mentioned that GM is open to exploring various options for the iconic tower complex, which the company acquired nearly three decades ago. While GM is not currently looking to sell the building, the possibility remains open.
GM's decision to relocate its headquarters marks the end of an era for the automotive giant, which has been based in the Renaissance Center since 1996. The move comes amidst changes in the company's workforce structure, with many employees transitioning to hybrid office-home work schedules.
Bedrock, known for its role in revitalizing downtown Detroit, will collaborate with GM and local governments to consider residential, commercial, and mixed-use possibilities for the RenCen complex. Barra expressed confidence in the collective effort to shape a promising future for the site.
The ongoing development of the Hudson's tower, set to offer a mix of retail, office, dining, hospitality, and residential spaces, signifies a significant step in Detroit's urban renewal efforts spearheaded by Bedrock.
