In his column for the Detroit News this week, Daniel Howes analyzed an interesting proposal offered by billionaire Dan Gilbert to Wayne County officials. Gilbert wants to secure a Downtown Detroit site where an unfinished jail currently stands.
The Quicken Loans leader says he will build Wayne County a brand new jail and court offices just east of Midtown in exchange for the site. Wayne County officials are currently vetting the offer.
Under the proposal, Gilbert would then build a mixed residential and entertainment district on the unfinished jail site which could include a soccer stadium.
Howes said it is important to consider that the proposed private development would generate tax revenue for Detroit and Wayne County. The County is currently paying $1.2 million per month in debt service for the unfinished jail.
For more on the proposal, listen to Stateside's conversation with Daniel Howes above.
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