Ford Motor Company now owns the Michigan Central Train Depot in Southwest Detroit.
Matthew Moroun’s family has owned the train station since 1995. But the building has remained vacant since the late 80s.
Matthew Moroun, son of billionaire Manuel ‘Matty’ Moroun, says they have been waiting for the perfect development for the depot:
"I knew that this was exactly what the building needed. The golden opportunity for its rebirth. The depot’s redevelopment and revitalization would only be part of an enormous plan taking in much more than the depot itself."
Ford says it will announce its plans for the site next week.
Jane Garcia is the chair of Latin Americans for Social and Economic Development. She watched Moroun’s announcement Monday morning. Garcia says she’s ‘ecstatic’ about the new ownership.
“The result is it’s going to be a part of a toolbox that gives back to the city. And Ford Motor Company whatever they’re deciding to do with it... they’ve left a long legacy. And a great legacy for this city. To me it’s just one more partnership that’s going to continue.”
Garcia says she’s looking forward to the developments Ford will bring to the Corktown neighborhood.
Corey McGee is a resident of Corktown. She brought her daughter to the former train station to see the announcement. McGee says she’s pleased to hear Ford is the new owner.
“Oh I mean I couldn’t be more thrilled. I think it’s great. We are going to see something happen with the train station. And it’s a local… American company which is awesome. And yeah. I’m excited. It will change the neighborhood a little bit.”
McGee says she’s not sure what changes Ford might bring to the neighborhood. She says she lives within eyesight of the station, and hopes renovations aren’t too disruptive.