Abandoned Detroit Fisher Body Plant 21 | Detroit, Michigan 4K

The Detroit Fisher Body Plant 21, located at the intersection of I-75 & I-94, has been a significant structure in Detroit's automotive history.

Historical Context: Opened in 1919, Fisher Body Plant 21 was designed by the architectural firm Smith, Hinchman & Grylls. It was initially used for manufacturing automobile bodies, particularly for Cadillac and Buick. During World War II, it contributed to the war effort by making parts for aircraft, reinforcing Detroit's role as the "Arsenal of Democracy."
Operational Shift and Decline: General Motors closed the Fisher Body division in 1984, after which Plant 21 was sold to a paint company. This company eventually went bankrupt, abandoning the building in 1993. The City of Detroit took ownership in the 2000s with initial plans for demolition due to its dilapidated state.
Redevelopment Plans:
By 2022, plans were announced to transform the abandoned plant into the "Fisher 21 Lofts," featuring 433 apartments with 20% set aside for below-market rents, along with over 40,000 square feet of commercial space. This project aimed to preserve the existing structure, adding amenities like atriums and a rooftop gathering place.
The development is part of a broader effort to revitalize Detroit, turning symbols of decay into signs of progress. The project received a $1 million Brownfield Redevelopment Grant from EGLE to address environmental concerns like contaminated soil.
Current Status:
As of mid-2024, there's been mention on X (formerly known as Twitter) suggesting skepticism about the project's progress, with comments indicating that no permits have been filed, hinting at potential stagnation or cancellation of the redevelopment plans. However, there's no official confirmation that the project has been entirely abandoned.
Cultural Impact: The plant has been an iconic part of Detroit's landscape, representing both the city's industrial might and its struggles with post-industrial decline. Its redevelopment is seen as symbolic of Detroit's ongoing efforts to reinvent itself.