Governor Gretchen Whitmer has set a powerful precedent in her approach to addressing Michigan’s housing crisis. By announcing the approval of 450 new housing units across Detroit and Wyandotte, this isn’t limited to just a move to bring more homes to these cities—it also highlights the true call to action for a community-centered economic future. Her focus is to transform Michigan into a place where families, small business owners, and residents can thrive, and it all starts with ensuring that everyone has access to affordable housing.
What stands out most about this project is its deep-rooted commitment to the people who have historically been left out of these opportunities. The Fisher 21 Lofts, which plans to convert the iconic Fisher Body Plant in Detroit into affordable and market-rate housing, is a monumental step toward ensuring that Detroiters—especially Black Detroiters—are not just witnesses to their city’s renaissance but active participants in it.
“Today’s investments will convert the iconic Fisher Body Plant in Detroit and the former Wyandotte City Hall into hundreds of new units of quality, affordable housing and commercial space,” said Governor Whitmer. “Our comprehensive economic development strategy is all about making Michigan the best place to live, work, and invest. Together, we are converting old, underutilized property into productive space and making our neighborhoods more attractive for families and small business owners too. Let’s keep betting on Michigan and building up our cities.”
The Fisher Body Plant was once a symbol of Detroit’s industrial power. Now, under the leadership of African American developers Gregory Jackson and Richard Hosey, the site is poised to become a beacon of community revitalization. Their vision is about more than just restoring bricks and mortar; it’s about rebuilding Detroit’s soul. Their approach ensures the legacy of those who have contributed to Detroit’s rebirth is recognized. Detroit has long been built by the hands of Black workers, and now, through this project, they have a tangible stake in the city’s resurgence. The importance of minority-led projects like this one cannot be overstated. This development is an affirmation that Black leadership is driving Detroit’s future.
This revitalization effort will not only breathe new life into an old factory but also provide 433 housing units, 63 of which will be reserved for individuals earning between 50-80% of the Area Median Income. This attention to affordability is crucial in a time when many residents feel priced out of their neighborhoods due to skyrocketing housing costs. These developments promise to provide homes that are accessible, bringing relief to those struggling to keep up with rising rents.
This project is part of a broader movement to tackle housing and blight in Detroit, where leaders like state Senator Stephanie Chang and Representative Mike McFall see these investments as critical. It’s a recognition that housing is a human right and that ensuring affordable housing options is a direct step toward preventing the displacement of longtime Detroit residents. Housing projects like these reflect a commitment to keeping communities intact while also making room for growth.
In Wyandotte, the reauthorization of funds for the 3131 Biddle project, another part of Whitmer’s broader housing strategy, takes a once-vibrant City Hall building and repurposes it for housing and commercial use. It’s yet another example of turning underutilized spaces into thriving community hubs. This move helps ensure Wyandotte remains a place where people want to live and businesses want to invest.
What Governor Whitmer’s announcement signals is a broader shift in how Michigan is approaching both housing and economic growth. By investing not only in housing but also in startups and innovators through the Michigan State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) 2.0 Venture Capital Program, she’s pushing for an economy that works for everyone. The $11 million allocation from the Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) Board to support early-stage, tech-based businesses in the state is vital. It shows that Michigan is thinking long-term—creating spaces for people to live and work while fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
“The Fisher Body Plant is an iconic piece of Detroit history,” said state Representative Mike McFall (D-Hazel Park). “I am proud to see various levels of government and community come together for this revitalization project. The housing piece is vital to ensure people are not pushed out of their communities because of new developments.”
The collaboration with developers like Gregory Jackson and Richard Hosey shows the power of community-driven investment. Their leadership in the Fisher 21 Lofts project is not only about restoring a historic building but also about transforming lives. They are creating jobs, providing affordable housing, and ensuring that Black Detroiters—who have been instrumental in rebuilding this city—are finally sharing in its success. These are the stories that need to be told, not just in the boardrooms but in our neighborhoods.
“We are incredibly proud to be spearheading the largest African American-led development project in Michigan with the revitalization of the iconic Fisher Plant. This project is about more than just bricks and mortar—it’s about restoring a piece of Detroit’s history and creating opportunities for the city’s future,” said Gregory Jackson and Richard Hosey of Fisher Lofts 21, LLC. “This redevelopment allows minority workers, who have been instrumental in rebuilding Detroit, to finally receive the recognition they deserve. We are breaking down barriers and ensuring that those who contribute to Detroit’s growth—whether through construction or beyond—share in its success. With the creation of jobs and hundreds of units of affordable and market-rate housing, this project is a testament to what’s possible when community-driven and minority-led investment comes together. We’re thankful for the Michigan Strategic Fund helping us make it happen.”
“Richard and Greg are transforming a reminder of decay and blight into something that showcases our proud auto heritage and points us toward a bright future,” said David Laurence Howell, Vice President of Development Services at the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation. “This project isn’t just about a building – it’s about making real differences in people’s lives, from creating family-friendly affordable housing to boosting the whole neighborhood. The DEGC is proud to support this transformative effort with a TIF, tax incentives and RAP 2.0 grant funding we secured from our partners at MEDC to advance the project.”
Governor Whitmer’s focus on people, places, and projects is about tangible results for everyday Michiganders. And as we see Detroit’s landscape changing, it’s clear that projects like these will ensure that this change benefits everyone, not just the wealthy or well-connected. It’s a plan grounded in community, with a vision that centers those who have historically been left out.
This move toward more housing, community investment, and business support is the kind of comprehensive strategy that ensures Michigan’s future is one of inclusivity and opportunity. It’s a reminder that when we invest in our communities—especially our Black communities—everyone thrives. And as Detroit continues to grow, it’s projects like Fisher 21 Lofts and 3131 Biddle that will ensure that growth is equitable and sustainable.
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