Rev. Horace L. Sheffield III backs GM-Bedrock plan to remake the Renaissance Center

Rev. Horace L. Sheffield III is urging Detroit officials to approve General Motors and Bedrock’s proposal to reimagine the Renaissance Center. He says the project could preserve the skyline, add affordable housing and riverfront attractions, and generate about $300 million in new tax revenue for the city.

Why it matters: - The proposed redevelopment could reshape one of Detroit’s most visible landmarks instead of letting the Renaissance Center deteriorate. - The plan pairs preservation of the skyline with new uses that could draw residents, families and visitors to the riverfront. - A City analysis projects roughly $300 million in new tax revenue under the proposed structure.

What happened: - Rev. Horace L. Sheffield III publicly endorsed General Motors and Bedrock’s proposal to redesign, re-envision and reimagine the Renaissance Center. - Sheffield said he wanted to make “one final contribution” to the civic debate before limiting his civic engagement. - He urged city government to approve the request tied to the redevelopment plan.

The details: - Sheffield said the Renaissance Center once symbolized both “the good and the bad,” including a new form of isolation. - The proposal would keep the essence of Detroit’s skyline while opening the complex up. - The plan calls for a more inviting, accessible and inclusive property. - Sheffield said the proposal includes new affordable housing. - The development would convert 35 acres of empty surface parking lots into a family-friendly entertainment district. - Sheffield compared the idea to major-city destinations such as Chicago’s Navy Pier. - He said the project would create more opportunities for families, residents and visitors to enjoy the riverfront. - The City’s analysis says the development is not being undertaken as a profit-making venture. - Under the proposed structure, the City is projected to gain about $300 million in new tax revenue.

Between the lines: - Sheffield is framing the project as both a symbolic reset and a practical redevelopment strategy. - The endorsement reflects a broader argument that Detroit can preserve a familiar landmark while changing what the landmark means. - The nonprofit structure appears designed to make the public benefits central to the pitch, not just the private development terms.

What's next: - Detroit officials still need to decide whether to approve the proposal. - If approved, the project would move the Renaissance Center toward a new identity centered on housing, public access and entertainment. - Sheffield said Detroit has an opportunity to redefine what the Renaissance Center represents for generations to come.