The redevelopment of the Workers Rowhouse Experience in Corktown is making visible progress.
The wood siding has been removed for repair when possible and replacement when necessary. New windows and doors have been built and are ready for installation, and Greater Corktown Development Corp., the project's developer, is currently taking bids for the heating and cooling of the structure, a residential 3-unit built in the 1850s.
The budget for the initial construction is $100,000, funded by a grant from the State of Michigan's Cool Cities Initiative, although GCDC Executive Director Tim McKay estimates that the entire project, including complete renovation, exhibit development and the restoration of the home next-door to the rowhouse as a welcome/ticket/tour center, cafe, gift shop and office, will take 3-5 years and will cost approximately $1.5 million.
GCDC is developing the rowhouse as an interpretive center that will look at local history from the 1850's through the 1960's. The home is significant in that it is a modest wooden home still standing on its original site. GCDC is currently seeking volunteers and interns to conduct research on the history of the home's residents.
The archeological dig that
WSU began this fall will continue for another year.
Source: Tim McKay and Joyce Elferdink, GCDC
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