By JAMES MITCHELL
Sunday Times Newspapers
TAYLOR – The demolition of a building residents have long considered an eyesore was a welcome sight last month for city officials, who envision a revitalized business community along the Eureka Road corridor.
The razing of the former Ramada Inn on Eureka Road between Allen Road and I-75 marked the first of several demolitions expected to pave the way for new business development. The building sat vacant for about seven years, and attracted transients and suspected criminal activity before being purchased last year by private, undisclosed stakeholders with plans for the site and the former Taylor Tool building next door.
City spokesman Karl Ziomek said original plans called for a Marriott hotel for the Taylor Tool site, although that and prospects for the Ramada property remained undefined.
Clearing the land remained a top priority for both safety and nearby business interests. City officials said that in the past 18 months, planners have confirmed several high-profile projects, including the Rouse Properties overhaul of Southland Center, and the anticipated razing of the former Gibraltar Trade Center as construction will soon begin on a new Menards at that location. Additional “anchor” stores are expected to be confirmed for the development.
Municipal support will include a spring overhaul of Eureka Road from Racho to Allen roads, funded by Wayne County.
(James Mitchell can be reached at [email protected].)