DETROIT – Big changes are on the horizon for Michigan Avenue in Corktown, where the iconic red brick road will soon be a thing of the past. Two miles of the avenue are set to be rebuilt to accommodate residential and commercial development.
Community input is at the forefront of the discussions surrounding this project. The last meeting took place last year, drawing significant attention to concerns about the future of the bricks. A campaign called “Save the Bricks” was launched to advocate for their preservation.
Ultimately, MDOT has determined that the bricks will not remain on the stretch of Michigan Avenue used by drivers, citing safety concerns. However, they plan to salvage as many bricks as possible for use in pedestrian crosswalks. The new concrete laid in the area will also be stamped to resemble brick, maintaining a connection to the avenue’s historic character.
The bricks are not the only concern for local businesses. The president of the Corktown Business Association, Bob Roberts, expressed worries about the broader implications of the project.
“They are historic; they’re a big part of what makes Corktown Corktown,” he said.
Roberts added, “But it’s not just the bricks. I mean, they have some things planned for MDOT that will definitely put small businesses on Michigan Avenue out of business.”
Modified Design Updates
The project includes several key updates:
- Two through lanes in each direction
- Dedicated left turn lanes at signaled intersections
- Mid-block crossings
- Dedicated transit stop locations
- Sidewalk-level bike track
- Usage of salvaged bricks
Community Meeting
The meeting is happening on April 16, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The presentation begins promptly at 5:20 p.m., followed by a question-and-answer session.
The meeting will be held at the IBEW Local 58 Union Hall at 1358 Abbott St. in Detroit. Parking is available at the lot adjacent to the Union Hall.
Since August, community members have been actively engaged in this story, witnessing how their input has influenced the project. While the decision to remove the bricks is difficult for many, MDOT has listened to the concerns of the community and business owners, making modifications to the project along the way.
