Old Detroit train station sold to Ford for redevelopment

The owners of Detroit's vacant, hulking 105-year-old Michigan Central Station say they've sold the iconic symbol of Detroit's fall from greatness to Ford Motor Co. for redevelopment.

Matthew Moroun, son of Manuel (Matty)Moroun who owns boththe former train stationand the Ambassador Bridge said Monday that Dearborn-based Ford's Blue Oval logo "will adorn the building." The announcement came in front of the 500,000-square-foot, 18-story station that closed in 1988.

"It's the best.I mean I know that the city was looking for a moon-shot with Amazon but Ithink we got what's really fitting for our city," said Matthew Moroun."Our company will turn its attention more fully to another development we've been working on over the river."

Moroun saidFord plans to disclose details of the redevelopment soon.An announcement is planned next week, Ford said. After years of failed plans, talk has centred on redevelopment spearheaded by Ford.

"These are exciting times for Ford and Detroit," Ford said in a statement Monday. It said the June 19 announcement "will be a historic day for Detroit, the auto industry and the future of Ford."

After years of failed plans, talk has centred on redevelopment spearheaded by Ford board member Edsel B. Ford II.

Ford recently began moving about 200 members of its electric and autonomous vehicle business teams into a refurbished former factory near the train station.

Michigan Central Station was completed in 1913 and was a busy rail hub for decades. But as people travelled more by car and plane, demand for rail service waned. In 1986, its 3-story depot handled about 64,000 passengers, down from 82,400 the year before. It closed two years later, giving way to scavengers who stripped it of everything of value, including its wiring and plumbing.

The edifice fronted by massive columns that jut from an elaborate yet faded entrance piqued the interest of urban explorers, the curious and squatters, and it became the most iconic symbol of Detroit's fall from greatness.

One explorer was hurt in 2012 after falling about 12 m through the floor and into the basement, and razor wire fencing was eventually erected to keep people out.

Moroun installed new windows and working lights a few years ago, and an invitation-only gathering was held in the depot last September as part of an annual event to bring investment to Detroit.