Sources: Ford looks to buy old Michigan Central Station in Corktown

Massive deal could breathe life into old train station

DETROIT – The old Michigan Central Station could be ready for a second act as there's a massive deal in the works to breathe life back into the iconic building.

The Michigan Central Station in Corktown has served as a beacon of blight for decades, but that could soon chance as Ford Motor Company is interested in buying the building and moving in.

The possibility was first mentioned about a month ago, but it's been kept quiet as nobody wanted to comment. But many believe this could be the latest signal that Detroit's comeback is real.

Detroit's old train station is visible for drivers as they come into the city off of I-96, and it stood as a shining example of Detroit's former greatness. Residents could see Canada through the structure as it sat decaying in the elements.

PICTURES: A look inside a Detroit icon: Michigan Central Station

But in 2015, windows were installed to make the place look better, and at the same time, people wondered what would become of the relic.

It's taken more than three years to get that decision, but without directly saying so, Ford is winking at its involvement in occupying the old building and buying it.

"We are excited about our return to Detroit this year with our electric vehicle and autonomous vehicle teams relocating to the Factory in Corktown," Ford said in a statement. "While we anticipate our presence over time will grow as our AV/EV teams move downtown, we have nothing further to announce at this time."

You can watch Rod Meloni's full story in the video posted above.


About the Authors:

Rod Meloni is an Emmy Award-winning Business Editor on Local 4 News and a Certified Financial Plannerâ„¢ Professional.

Derick is the Lead Digital Editor for ClickOnDetroit and has been with Local 4 News since April 2013. Derick specializes in breaking news, crime and local sports.