LANSING, Mich. – In an ambitious move to revitalize Detroit’s Midtown neighborhood, Governor Gretchen Whitmer, alongside the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), has announced backing from the Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) Board for the transformation of the historic Billinghurst Hotel into a modern mixed-use development.
“Every Michigander deserves an affordable, quality place to live, work, and raise a family,” stated Governor Whitmer. Highlighting the significance of this project, she noted it would offer affordable housing options and reinvigorate a historic building, further aiding local businesses. She emphasized, “Our investments in revitalization and placemaking are helping communities across Michigan breathe new life into historic buildings and vibrant downtowns.”
MEDC’s CEO and MSF Board Chair, Quentin L. Messer, Jr., remarked, “Community development is a key pillar in Michigan’s economic development strategy, and this project honors Detroit’s storied past while creating opportunities for housing and contributing to the city’s revitalization.”
Project Overview
Situated at 69 W. Willis in the Willis-Selden Historic District, the Billinghurst Apartments will introduce 31 new apartments and over 4,300 square feet of commercial space. The rental pricing will cater to those earning between 60-100% of the Area Median Income, aiming to ensure affordability. The entire endeavor is set to bring in a capital investment of $9,549,589, enhancing the connectivity between Midtown, Downtown, and Brush Park.
Backing this development, the MSF Board has sanctioned a $1,839,647 award from the Michigan Community Revitalization Program (MCRP) Other Economic Assistance Loan Participation. Additional local support includes a 15-year Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) tax reduction plan worth around $3 million, along with the local Act 381 Work Plan valued at approximately $831,597. The project also benefits from leveraging Federal Historic Tax Credits and assistance from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) Housing Tax Increment Financing.
Key Stakeholders and Historical Significance
Detroit developer Scott Lowell leads the development team, a notable force in Midtown Detroit’s revitalization. The team was honored with the Spirit of Detroit Award in 2025 and has previously collaborated with MEDC on historic projects, such as the Forest Arms Apartments, recognized with the 2018 Governor’s Award for historic preservation.
“We’ve devoted the majority of our lives working to restore and preserve buildings in the city we grew up in,” expressed developer Scott Lowell. He added, “Finally getting The Billinghurst to the starting line is very exciting, and we look forward to being part of Detroit’s continued renaissance.”
Preserving Detroit’s Architectural Legacy
Constructed in 1922, the former Billinghurst Hotel stands as one of the few remaining vacant structures in Midtown’s historic district. Its rehabilitation will help preserve the architectural legacy of the area, bridging a gap left by other demolished historic structures.
Strategically located between Wayne State University and Downtown Detroit, the project addresses the pressing demand for housing while breathing life into a long-dormant building.
Community Voices
“Billinghurst Apartments is a great example of how Housing TIF can support a community’s own priorities for redevelopment,” stated Amy Hovey, MSHDA CEO and executive director. She emphasized the importance of utilizing such tools to preserve neighborhood character.
Adding to this, Brian Vosburg, senior director of brownfield redevelopment, Detroit Economic Growth Corporation, noted, “The Billinghurst has been vacant for decades, and there aren’t many buildings like it left in this stretch of Midtown, so seeing it come back is beneficial for the neighborhood.”
State Representative Joe Tate (D-Detroit) commented on the project’s significance, stating, “This project respects the history of the building while looking toward its future, and I’m encouraged to see this investment moving.”
State Sen. Stephanie Chang (D-Detroit) offered her congratulations to the development team, emphasizing the importance of quality, attainable housing as a priority for the state.
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