Ann Arbor Times

The University of Michigan Center for Innovation (UMCI) in Detroit will lease a residential tower at 2205 Cass Ave. The building is being developed by Related Companies and Olympia Development of Michigan.

The U-M Board of Regents gave their approval for the lease during a special meeting on July 17. The preliminary budget for this development is $186 million.

UMCI aims to be a center for research, education, and entrepreneurship to promote innovation and community development. Construction began on the 200,000-square-foot, six-story UMCI building in December 2023 and is expected to be completed by 2027. A live webcam provides updates on the construction progress.

“UMCI is a bold venture that will fuel innovation and drive opportunity in Detroit,” stated Laurie McCauley, U-M provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “When our students, faculty and visiting scholars can live, work and innovate in the heart of Detroit, we create the kind of dynamic ecosystem where transformative ideas flourish.”

The residential tower will have nearly 235,000 square feet across 13 floors with 313 units. It will be adjacent to the UMCI building at Columbia Street and Cass Avenue. The lease term is set for an initial period of 40 years with completion anticipated by 2028.

“The residential component added by this tower is a critical aspect of the center, as it will give our students and faculty the opportunity to immerse themselves in an innovative community dedicated to opportunity and economic development,” said UMCI Director Scott Shireman. “Programming will take a mixed-model approach that includes both master’s degrees and workforce development programs focused on technology and innovation.”