A group of organizations, including The American Institute of Architects Detroit, Docomomo_US/MI, the Michigan Historic Preservation Network, and the National Organization of Minority Architects Detroit, supports Preservation Detroit's efforts to repurpose the Renaissance Center while keeping most of the structure intact. The City of Detroit supports a partial demolition, stating that leaving all five towers vacant could lead to blight, similar to the former Hudson's building. The city also plans to integrate the Renaissance Center into waterfront renovations and improve public access, as reported by CBS Detroit.
General Motors plans to move out of the Renaissance Center in Detroit, and developer Bedrock has proposed demolishing two of the towers to make way for a public park, hotel, and affordable housing. The remaining towers would be repurposed. Preservation Detroit has asked the Detroit City Council to pause the demolition due to the building's historical value. If the Renaissance Center is designated a local historic district, the demolition would be delayed for a year for review, as stated by CBS Detroit.
According to Preservation Detroit on their Facebook post, the organization encourages concerned citizens to contact their city council representatives and stay informed about the ongoing debate. More information and copies of the letters sent to the council are available on Preservation Detroit's website and social media platforms. The organization is focused on advocating for the full preservation of the Renaissance Center and its historical and cultural significance to Detroit's community.
