DETROIT (WXYZ) — Work at the Michigan Central Train Depot is chugging along. Ford officials said the first restoration phase has been completed.
Bobcat Bonnie’s manager Katie Kelley can’t wait to see the work done.
“Bringing back things that were very eye catching and a very big part of our city,” Kelley said.
She drives by the building on the way to Bobcat Bonnie’s, which is just around the corner.
“You always see the pictures growing up of how it used to look in its prime, per se," Kelley said. "It’s kind of neat to see it be restored.”
The first step of restoration was dry out the building. Water is 80% contained and the latest rain showers actually help the progress.
Rich Bardelli is the Construction Manager for Ford.
“It’s an old building, so when it rains we find those other little pockets,” Bardelli said.
The dark, damp basement and the 12th floor was open to the media. Kelley has never been inside but she can imagine the greatness.
“Tall ceilings, beautiful artwork, beautiful architecture just on the inside too,” she said. “Pretty excited to see when it opens.”
Crews will now work on the exterior restoration, as well the building’s structure.
The last phase of the $350 million makeover will be work on the inside.
“A jewel for our city,” Bardelli added. “It’s going to be grand when we are done.”
Ford officials say work is on track to get this building open by 2022.
