WSU Opens $36M Mixed-Use Project in Midtown

DETROIT-Wayne State University officials recently cut the ribbon to open a $36 million mixed-use project here, that includes the 130-unit Studio One Apartments and about 30,000 sf of retail on Woodward Avenue. The South University Village project is between the college’s main campus and its medical school campus, on the site of the former Vernors Bottling Plant here between Forest Avenue and Canfield Street.

Prime Development, based in Grand Rapids, MI, built the apartments for the university and will manage the property. A company official could not be reached, but a university spokeswoman says more than 40% of the apartment building is occupied. Rents range from $870 to $1,395 per month for 646 sf to 1,008 sf, according to Prime’s Web site. The project also includes a 950-car parking deck.

“The property has completely transformed a vacant property into a vibrant retail and housing environment,” says the spokeswoman. “It really contributes to the whole lifestyle revitalization of the Midtown area in Downtown Detroit.”