Construction starts on Ypsilanti's Thompson Block renovation

Roof work is in progress and residential leases are being signed for the Thompson Block redevelopment project in Ypsilanti’s Depot Town.

Investment partner and Real Estate One agent Tyler Weston, who is handling the development’s leasing and marketing, confirmed that construction has begun with the roof as the first goal, soon to be followed by foundation work and other interior build-outs. They're looking to deliver keys to commercial tenants next February and are also taking reservations for the lofts on the second and third floor of the building; in fact, only two of the six, third-floor units remain available.

"Over a year out, people are already reserving them and signing leases," Weston says. "We’ve got positive momentum going and are looking forward to getting it off the ground."

Weston doesn't yet have an idea of the size of the crew needed, but says bids are out and quite a few people will be involved in making the project happen. New leases had to be signed for the commercial spaces, and although he’s not ready to reveal the tenants, he will say they are "super awesome and super local."

Weston also says he’s especially excited about adding to "what's already thriving in Depot Town."

"It feels really good to add other local businesses that are going to be a part of the fabric of Depot Town for years to come," he says. "It's a great city and there's great opportunity here. We stay in network and help each other out. Thompson Block's the perfect iteration of that."

The $4 million redevelopment project will feature 14,000 square feet of commercial space. It was built in 1861 as barracks for the Civil War and is located at River and Cross streets.

Source: Tyler Weston, Thompson Block partner
Writer: Kristin Lukowski