Detroit issues building permit for 1728 Michigan Avenue tower
Built World Detroit, MI localThe $7.7 million permit allows a 9-story mixed-use building with 60 apartments in Corktown.
Overview
On November 13, 2026, Detroit's Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental Department issued a building permit for a nine-story mixed-use building at 1728 Michigan Avenue in Corktown. The permit authorizes construction of a 60-unit apartment building with ground-floor commercial space on a site currently used as a surface parking lot.
The project is one of several mid-rise developments adding to Corktown, a neighborhood west of downtown Detroit. Its progress will show whether the area's building boom can deliver housing and commercial space as construction costs and interest rates remain high.
Why it matters
If built, the tower would add 60 homes to Corktown, testing whether Detroit's neighborhood reinvestment can proceed despite higher financing costs.
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Voices
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People Involved
Organizations Involved
The development entity registered to Andra Rush that is leading the 1728 Michigan Avenue project.
The construction manager guiding preconstruction planning and construction execution for 1728 Michigan Avenue.
Detroit-based architecture firm designing the 1728 Michigan Avenue building.
The city department responsible for issuing building permits in Detroit.
The city council that approved tax incentives for the 1728 Michigan Avenue development.
Timeline
April 2026 November 2026
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Building permit issued for 9-story tower
Latest PermitThe city issues permit BLD2026-00397 for a mixed-use/multifamily building with an estimated construction cost of $7.7 million.
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Public hearing on brownfield incentives
HearingDetroit's Brownfield Redevelopment Authority holds a public hearing on incentives for the 1728 Michigan Avenue project.
Scenarios
Construction begins by mid-2027
Discussed by: No specific analyst cited; based on permit issuance and typical development timelines.
With the building permit in hand, the developer can start construction. If financing and market conditions hold, site work could begin within months.
Project stalls; permit expires without construction
Discussed by: No specific analyst cited; based on risks of construction cost increases and financing.
If the developer cannot secure construction financing or costs rise further, the project could be delayed. Detroit building permits typically expire if work does not begin within a set period.
Project completed and opens by summer 2028
Discussed by: No specific analyst cited; based on developer's earlier timeline of a summer 2027 finish, now adjusted for permit delay.
If construction proceeds on a typical schedule, the building could open within 18-24 months. The developer's earlier estimate targeted a summer 2027 completion, but the permit was issued later than planned.