News Stories from The District Detroit.

SPOTLIGHT: Jaren Glasker, Little Caesars World Headquarters

Jaren Glasker, safety manager at the Little Caesars World Headquarters campus expansion, is one of the many hardworking crewmembers bringing The District Detroit to life. He's worked in the construction industry for 17 years and today he’s keeping workers safe and sound as they bring the project to completion.

Red Wings Announce 2nd Annual Hockeytown 5K, Sept. 10

The Detroit Red Wings today announced the details for the second annual Hockeytown 5K Run/Walk, presented by Meijer and Powerade. Building on last year’s sold-out event, this season’s race will take place on Sunday, Sept. 10 from 7:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m., and will finish outside Little Caesars Arena. 

Detroit-based Contractor Teaching Next Generation of Apprentices

They’ve been in business in Detroit for nearly 50 years and now Ben Washington and Sons Plumbing & Heating is making their mark on The District Detroit. 

New Scoreboard, Indoor and Outdoor Big Screens Installed

Fans attending concerts, shows or sporting events at the new Little Caesars Arena will enjoy state-of-the art video displays designed, manufactured and installed by Daktronics, the world leader in audiovisual systems and implementation. 

Detroit-based Christman-Brinker Leading Business School Construction

Jennifer Emerick is keeping construction of the new Mike Ilitch School of Business on schedule and on budget. It’s her job as senior project manager to deliver a modern new business school for students at Wayne State University—and she’s doing just that.

Summer Internship Program Begins with New Class of Cass Tech Students

This week, students from Detroit Public Schools’ Cass Technical High School will take part in a paid 10-week internship program at Ilitch Companies where they will work for Detroit Tigers, Detroit Red Wings, Little Caesars, Olympia Entertainment and Olympia Development of Michigan among others.

More than 1,800 Hired at Little Caesars Arena

More than 1,880 people have been hired to work at Little Caesars Arena in a variety of positions after two successful job fairs were held in Detroit this month. And of those, more than 60 percent are Detroit residents who will begin work when the arena opens to the public in September.

Detroit Tigers Tour Little Caesars Arena

Detroit Tigers players, coaches and front office staff toured Little Caesars Arena today where they visited with construction crews and got a first-hand look at the progress on the new arena. Little Caesars Arena will open in a little more than three months with sports, concerts and other events. It’s the home of the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Pistons and the centerpiece of The District Detroit development.

Announcing Detroit’s Largest Residential Development Initiative in More Than 20 Years

Olympia Development of Michigan today announced plans for hundreds of new affordable and market-rate rental housing units across six buildings in The District Detroit's initial phase of residential developments. 

Two Topping Out Ceremonies in Two Days as Rapid Progress Continues

Two major milestones took place this week in The District Detroit as ironworkers at both the Mike Ilitch School of Business and the Little Caesars World Headquarters campus expansion affixed final steel beams to the high point of each structure one day apart.

Volunteers Give Cass Park a Makeover

The Cass Park Village neighborhood near Little Caesars Arena got a makeover recently—a Motor City Makeover. Volunteers cleared branches, debris and trash from the streets and sidewalks that surround Cass Park, one of Detroit’s oldest city parks. 

Roll on the QLINE Free This Weekend and Grab Some Swag

Detroit will make history again when the QLINE streetcar starts running this weekend along Woodward Avenue. This history-making event deserves to be celebrated in style—which is why we are planning a giant celebration with all four of Detroit’s sports teams, as well as Little Caesars Pizza, MotorCity Casino Hotel, Ilitch Charities and more.

Students Lay Ground Work for Construction Careers

High school students from throughout Michigan attended Michigan Construction Career Days May 4-5 to learn about career paths in the construction industry. The goal of the annual event is to introduce young people to career opportunities in construction trades like carpentry, mechanical and electrical work.

First Ever Soccer Match at Comerica Park Set For July 19

Relevent Sports, a division of RSE Ventures, today announced that Italian powerhouse AS Roma and current French Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain F.C. will face off in the first ever professional soccer match at Comerica Park in Detroit, Michigan on Wednesday, July 19 as part of the 2017 International Champions Cup presented by Heineken. The match is set to kick off at 8:00PM ET on ESPN2. Comerica Park is home to the Detroit Tigers and located in The District Detroit, one of the largest sports and entertainment developments underway in the United States.

New Trees Taking Root in The District Detroit

It’s Arbor Day throughout the United States and right here in The District Detroit we’re working to plant rows and rows of trees as well as perennials, ground cover and grasses along the roads and boulevards of Detroit’s new sports and entertainment destination.

Jewel Skin to Light Up Little Caesars Arena Concourse

A unique technological feature of Little Caesars Arena, known as the jewel skin, is being installed now inside the Via concourse surrounding a large part of the arena bowl. Hundreds of dimensional metal panels will make up a single projection screen, stretching 600 feet from the southwest corner of the Via concourse to the northeast.

Detroit Contractors Stay Busy in The District Detroit

The Michigan Made, Detroit Built focus of The District Detroit continues to make a huge impact on the local construction industry. A great example is the expansion of Little Caesars World Headquarters, which is ramping up now to include many more Detroit-based contractors into the new nine-story, 234,000 square-foot office building—the first newly-built global headquarters building in the city of Detroit in a decade.

Steel Rising for Mike Ilitch School of Business in The District Detroit

The crane is up and lifting steel at the new Mike Ilitch School of Business in The District Detroit. Ironworkers have begun the process of sequencing and placing the steel that will make up of the building’s frame.

Tag #DistrictDetroit on Opening Day and Swag May be Yours

Opening Day at Comerica Park is almost here and fans are ready to cheer on the Detroit Tigers. This Friday, April 7 the Tigers will take on the Boston Red Sox at 1:10 p.m. at Comerica Park. It’s pretty much a holiday here in Detroit and as fans converge on The District Detroit at the start of the Tigers' season—you can be part of the fun too. The streets in and around The District Detroit will be filled with fans of all ages and it’s your chance to let everyone know you’re a superfan.

Detroit’s Big Sean Headlines Fox Theatre

Detroit-born rapper Big Sean is returning to Detroit to light up the stage for a sold-out crowd at the Fox Theatre on Saturday, April 1 at 8 p.m.— just one of many exciting shows and events taking place in The District Detroit this month.

More Progress as Final Truss Placed Above Via Concourse

The final piece of structural steel was placed above the Via concourse and adjoining buildings outside Little Caesars Arena today. Crews took a moment to celebrate the final truss going into place and much like the topping out ceremony of Little Caesars Arena, held in August, the final Via truss had an evergreen tree on it to mark yet another point of impressive progress.

New Web Cam Shows Mike Ilitch School of Business Construction Progress

Watch construction progress live as it happens at the new Mike Ilitch School of Business at Wayne State University. New live webcams are now streaming video of the construction site located at the corner of Woodward Avenue and Temple Street in The District Detroit

See What’s Happening this Spring in The District Detroit

It’s one of the most exciting times of the year in The District Detroit—spring—as Detroit Tigers baseball begins at Comerica Park on Opening Day, April 7. The Tigers take on the Boston Red Sox and fans will come out in droves to celebrate the start of the baseball season.

First Seats Installed at Little Caesars Arena

Construction of Little Caesars Arena hit another major milestone this week as crews began the process of installing seats, starting with those in the lower bowl. 

Get Detroit Pistons Giveaways this Friday at the Palace

This Friday, March 17 is The District Detroit Night at the Palace of Auburn Hills.  For Pistons fans that means great basketball, great times, and great giveaways – all to celebrate the team’s historic move to The District Detroit and Little Caesars Arena next season.

NHL Ice Surface Poured at Little Caesars Arena

A major step in preparing for the Detroit Red Wings ice surface got underway today as crews made an all-day concrete pour on the event level of Little Caesars Arena.

The Royce, Rusted Crow Add New Flavor to The District Detroit

Detroit’s restaurant and bar scene is making waves nationally as some call it one of the best places to dine and drink anywhere in the country. A few new places have emerged on the scene recently, adding to all the incredible new developments popping up throughout The District Detroit. 

Ilitch Family to Host Public Visitation for Mike Ilitch at Fox Theatre Grand Lobby on Wednesday, February 15

The Ilitch family today provided details on ways in which community members can share their memories and pay their respects to Mike Ilitch. Details for public memorials and opportunities to share condolences are as follows:

Champion for Detroit dies at age 87

Mike Ilitch, founder of Little Caesars Pizza, owner of the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Red Wings, Chairman of Ilitch Holdings, and champion for Detroit, died today at a local hospital. He was 87.

Get Ready for The District Detroit Night at the Palace of Auburn Hills

Mark your calendars for another exciting night at the Palace of Auburn Hills as they host The District Detroit Night on Friday, March 17. It’ll be a fun night for all as the Detroit Pistons take on the Toronto Raptors and fans receive co-branded swag, exciting giveaways and the chance to learn about the progress happening in Detroit’s incredible sports and entertainment destination.

Steel Installation Begins at Little Caesars World Headquarters

The enormous crane is built and the steel is moving at the new world headquarters of Little Caesars on Woodward Avenue in The District Detroit. Ironworkers from Detroit-based Midwest Steel have begun the process of sequencing and erecting the steel that will make up of the frame of the new nine-story, 234,000 square-foot office building—the first newly-built global headquarters building in the city of Detroit in a decade.

Truss Installation on Little Caesars Arena Via Concourse Underway

Work on the Via concourse at Little Caesars Arena, one of the most exciting and visible features of the project, got underway this week as crews began hoisting into place painted-white steel trusses that span the open-air walkway surrounding the arena bowl.

Tigers Fans Had a Terrific TigerFest at Comerica Park

Detroit Tigers fans got a taste of summer last Saturday as thousands came out to meet their favorite players and coaches during TigerFest at Comerica Park.

Plumbing Contractor Helping Detroiters Join the Trades

Adrienne Bennett has been in the plumbing business for nearly 40 years. She was the first African American Licensed Master Plumber in the country. Today Bennett’s Detroit-based plumbing business, Benkari, is growing as her team has been contracted to manage portions of plumbing work at several construction projects throughout The District Detroit. 

Tigers Return to Comerica Park for TigerFest

For one day, the Detroit Tigers will be roaring back into Comerica Park at the annual TigerFest event happening on January 21. More than 30 players, Tiger’s manager Brad Ausmus, coaches and alumni are scheduled to appear at this family-friendly event. Tour the clubhouse, visit the dugout and take photos with the boys of summer.

CCS Students to Create Public Art in The District Detroit

The District Detroit continues to transform places and people’s lives for the better, now even more so thanks to a new partnership with Detroit’s College for Creative Studies to empower students to create public artwork.

Red Wings Fans - Get Ready for The District Detroit Night at Joe Louis Arena

Get ready for another exciting night at the Joe as we host The District Detroit Night January 14. The Detroit Red Wings will take on the Pittsburgh Penguins and fans at the game will be showered with co-branded swag, exciting giveaways and the opportunity to learn about the progress happening in Detroit’s incredible sports and entertainment destination in 2017.

Crews Ready Ice Surface at Little Caesars Arena

Work on the ice surface at Little Caesars Arena gets underway this week as crews have begun excavating dirt at the lowest part of the bowl to make way for ice-making infrastructure where the Detroit Red Wings will play beginning this fall. Detroit-based RBV Contracting is already moving heavy equipment into place to ready the area for crews to install piping and fixtures that will keep the surface extra cold.

Looking Back at 2016—A Year to Remember in The District Detroit

It’s been a groundbreaking year full of exciting announcements, construction progress and amazing events happening all throughout The District Detroit—and we’re looking forward to a new year of opportunities, growth and exciting announcements on many more projects we’re planning for 2017 and beyond. Check out some of our favorite photos from 2016.

The Detroit Red Wings ’97 Alumni Check out The District Detroit and Little Caesars Arena

The Stanley Cup made an appearance at Little Caesars Arena today along with Detroit Red Wings alumni players from the 1997 championship team. Players and coaches visited with crew working to build the new arena and got a first-hand look at construction progress on the future home of the Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Pistons and the premier entertainment venue in the region.

​See What’s Happening this Winter in The District Detroit

It may be the coldest time of year here in Detroit—but we’re looking forward to some wintertime magic with plenty of exciting events and shows happening right here in The District Detroit.

Get Festive This December in The District Detroit

The holiday season is officially here and we’re excited for all the amazing things happening right here in The District Detroit. From holiday shows at the Fox Theatre to Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Lions games, college sports and festive holiday events—there’s plenty to do this December right here at the center of the action.

Detroit Contractor Building Little Caesars Arena Brick by Brick

Little Caesars Arena is going up brick-by-brick, built by the more than 800 tradesmen and women working six days a week on the project all year round. But just how many bricks does it take to build the new home of the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Pistons in the District Detroit? A lot.

Local Youngsters Learn About Skilled Trades Careers in The District Detroit

Kids from throughout Metro Detroit were invited to The District Detroit Preview Center on December 19 to see first-hand the construction industry and what skilled trades apprenticeship programs might lead them to a successful career path after high school.

Pistons to Move to Downtown Detroit

Detroit Pistons Owner Tom Gores, Ilitch Holdings, Inc. President and CEO Christopher Ilitch and Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan announced today agreements under which the Pistons will move to downtown Detroit and begin playing at the new Little Caesars Arena starting next season.

What’s Happening: Thanksgiving Day in The District Detroit

We’re lighting up Woodward Avenue for Thanksgiving Day, November 24, as Detroit gets ready to host two of the country’s longest running holiday season staples—America’s Thanksgiving Parade and the annual Detroit Lions Thanksgiving Day game, both held right here in The District Detroit.

Partnership to Clean-Up Cass Park Among City’s Best

Cass Park was recently named one of the best maintained parks in the city of Detroit’s Adopt-A-Park program. For the second year Olympia Development of Michigan has partnered with Woodside Bible Church to clean-up, mow and maintain the four-acre park at the corner of Second Avenue and Temple Street.

Red Wings Visit Their New Home at Little Caesars Arena

Detroit Red Wings players and coaches visited with crew working to build Little Caesars Arena and got a first-hand view of the construction progress on their future home today. Little Caesars Arena will open in less than a year and be ready for action at the start of the next NHL season. Little Caesars Arena is a multi-faceted, state-of-the art venue for sports, concerts and other events and is a centerpiece of The District Detroit development.

Impressive Progress Continues on Little Caesars Arena in The District Detroit

Thanks to the hardworking men and women building Little Caesars Arena, the project is moving forward at lightning speed and on track for a September 2017 opening.  More than 750 crew members are on site daily working on what is sure to be one of the coolest new arenas in the country and one of the largest and most exciting construction projects underway in Detroit.

New Live Webcam Shows Little Caesars Headquarters Construction Progress

A live webcam is now streaming views of the new Little Caesars World Headquarters campus expansion construction site on The District Detroit website. Follow along every day as construction progresses on the modern new nine-story, 234,000 square-foot office building—the first built in Detroit in a decade. Choose from a live camera or time-lapse directed at the jobsite right next door to the Fox Theatre.

See What’s Happening this Fall in The District Detroit

It’s fall in The District Detroit, and we’re gearing up for another exciting season of fantastic sports and entertainment right here in the center of the action. It’s the time for Halloween and holiday events, a new season for the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Lions as well as loads of incredible new shows and concerts happening all over Detroit’s most exciting destination for sports and entertainment.

Detroit Lions Roar into Home Opener, Sept. 18

Football fans will be roaring on Sunday, September 18 as the Detroit Lions take on the Tennessee Titans in their first home game of the season at Ford Field in The District Detroit.

Detroit DDA Approves $175 Million in Mixed-use Projects in The District Detroit

The city of Detroit Downtown Development Authority on September 14 approved development agreements for the $150 million Little Caesars World Headquarters Campus Expansion and the $24.4 million first phase of a mixed-use building on Henry Street adjacent to Little Caesars Arena. 

Little Caesars Breaks Ground on First Headquarters Building Built in Detroit in Over a Decade

Little Caesars and Olympia Development of Michigan are breaking ground today on a new $150 million, nine-story, 234,000 square foot, Little Caesars world headquarters expansion, to be built at the corner of Woodward Avenue and Columbia Street in The District Detroit.

Students Inspiring Students: Finding a Career Path

Coming into his 10 week internship, Chris Curtis was unsure of what career he wanted to pursue. After spending time in an office environment, Curtis was encouraged by co-workers and now is confident he’ll pursue a career similar to his experience at Little Caesars Pizza Kits.

The District Detroit Night at Comerica Park Draws Major Crowd

Fans came out to Comerica Park Saturday night to watch the Detroit Tigers take on the L.A. Angels and also take part in The District Detroit Night—many went home with new hats and prizes along with a few more fun memories.

Slow Roll Rides Through The District Detroit

Detroit Slow Roll will be rolling through The District Detroit on Monday, August 29 for their weekly nighttime bike ride, which kicks off from the Masonic Temple Detroit at 6:30 p.m. Everyone that wants to get a two-wheeled look at Detroit’s neighborhoods—including Cass Park Village—is welcome.

10,000 More Reasons to Cheer the Tigers on August 27

Detroit Tigers fans will have even 10,000 more reasons to cheer on August 27 when the Tigers and Olympia Development of Michigan team up for The District Detroit Night at Comerica Park – That’s the number of limited edition, Detroit Tigers/The District Detroit hats that will be given away to the first 10,000 fans when gates open.

Students Inspiring Students: Internship Creates New Opportunities

Alex Lopez has been so inspired by working with Olympia Development of Michigan as an intern this summer, he is now considering pursuing a career in architecture. Lopez is currently an intern with Olympia Development of Michigan where he helps architects organize structural and electrical plans for Comerica Park.

Tigers and Lions Double Header, Oh My!

A summertime day-night double header will have fans roaring in The District Detroit all day and night on Thursday, August 18 as the Detroit Tigers and the Detroit Lions invite the competition to Comerica Park and Ford Field on the same day.

Tony Bennett Takes the Stage at Fox Theatre, Aug. 12

World-famous crooner Tony Bennett will be performing at the Fox Theatre on Friday, August 12 at 8 p.m.—just one of many exciting shows events taking place in The District Detroit this summer.

Ernie — A Play by Mitch Albom Returns to City Theatre

There are lots of incredible events and shows happening this summer at the amazing venues located in The District Detroit. In its sixth season, Ernie — A Play by Mitch Albom, is playing at City Theatre now through Sunday, August 14.

Topping Out Celebrated at Little Caesars Arena

Today the final piece of structural steel was placed on the roof of Little Caesars Arena in The District Detroit. The important construction milestone was commemorated with a traditional topping out ceremony during which ironworkers signed their names, attached banners, flags and an evergreen tree to the final remaining piece of structural steel before it was hoisted into place.

Students Inspiring Students: Intern Finds Opportunity to Give Back

Helping kids with special needs meet their favorite players and play baseball on the field at Comerica Park has inspired second-year intern Kourtney Lots. Planning batting practice events and working with different baseball leagues has helped her fulfill her aspiration of giving back.

Local Business Playing A Part in Building The District Detroit

This summer Olympia Development of Michigan announced two incredible new developments will be built along Woodward Avenue in The District Detroit—the Little Caesars Global Resource Center and Mike Ilitch School of Business at Wayne State University—adding to 50 blocks of development underway between Downtown and Midtown.

Mike Ilitch School of Business Breaks Ground

A ceremonial groundbreaking was held on a beautiful, sunny day July 20 for the new Mike Ilitch School of Business at Wayne State University to be constructed at the corner of Woodward Avenue and Temple Street—another exciting development in The District Detroit. The new business school building was made possible by a $40 million gift from Mike and Marian Ilitch, as Wayne State University extends its campus south into the center of the Woodward Square neighborhood near the rapidly progressing Little Caesars Arena.

Students Inspiring Students: Teacher Encourages Intern to Follow Dreams

With the help of a teacher at Cass Technical High School, Victoria Singleton took a shot at pursuing her passion for business and marketing as an intern at Olympia Entertainment this summer as part of the Ilitch Companies internship program.

Interns Experiencing Life in the City Get First-Hand Look at The District Detroit

College interns are learning the ropes in the office at companies throughout Metro Detroit this summer and they’re also seeing all the incredible new events and developments going on Downtown through a five-year-old program aimed at introducing talented young professionals to life in the city.

Students Inspiring Students – A Look at Cass Tech Interns at Ilitch Companies

Alfred Sheffield was encouraged by his classmates and inspired by his older brother to apply for one of 24 internship positions at Ilitch Companies this summer. He is a 16-year-old student at Cass Technical High School in Detroit. This summer, he and other students will work with Ilitch Companies such as Little Caesars, Detroit Tigers, Olympia Development of Michigan and more.

See What’s Happening this Summer in The District Detroit

Summer is finally here and we’re celebrating in The District Detroit with tons of exciting concerts and events. When we think of summer, we think of Detroit Tigers Baseball. Throughout the summer the Tigers will offer a variety of fun and excitement including Friday and Saturday Night Fireworks, Sunday Kids Days and more.

Tigers Fans: Welcome to The District Detroit

Tiger fans – you bring the energy and excitement to Detroit’s incredible transformation every time you walk into Comerica Park or any of the other incredible venues, restaurants and gathering places surrounding the home of the Detroit Tigers. You’re in The District Detroit.

Calling All Contractors and Suppliers – Local Outreach Event June 28 for New Little Caesars Global Headquarters Project in The District Detroit

Olympia Development of Michigan will host a trade contractor outreach event June 28 at MotorCity Casino Hotel where bidding opportunities will be made available for construction of the new Little Caesars Global Resource Center in The District Detroit.

Ilitch Companies Welcomes New Class of Cass Tech Interns as part of The District Detroit Community Connect Program

For the second year, students from Detroit Public School’s Cass Technical High School will take part in a paid 10-week internship program at Ilitch Companies where they will work for Detroit Tigers, Detroit Red Wings, Little Caesars, Olympia Entertainment and Olympia Development of Michigan.

Vote for your Favorite Detroit Tigers to be MLB All-Stars

We’re rallying The District Detroit to get out and vote for all your favorite Detroit Tigers players for the 2016 Major League Baseball All-Star Game. With only two weeks remaining to vote, time is running out to get Detroit Tigers players onto the American League team’s roster.

Public Visitation Held for Gordie Howe

Legendary Detroit Red Wings player Gordie Howe passed away on June 10 at the age of 88. He will be honored this week at Joe Louis Arena. The Detroit Red Wings and the Howe family will hold a public visitation for Howe on Tuesday, June 14 at Joe Louis Arena from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., honoring Howe’s iconic sweater number 9 while allowing fans to pay their respects to Mr. Hockey and the Howe family.

Opportunity Made Real – The District Detroit Marks $300 Million in Contracts to Detroit Businesses

Construction of the new Little Caesars Arena in The District Detroit reached an incredible milestone recently as more than $300 million in contracts have been awarded to Detroit-based businesses and nearly $500 million have been awarded to Michigan businesses.

Heads Up! Gondola Installation Begins High Above the Action

One of the most exciting and innovative features of the new Little Caesars Arena has been constructing the gondola seating —a massive, suspended steel frame that hangs from the arena’s roof—giving fans a chance to be on top of the action.

Ilitch Organizations’ Recent Donation Brings Special Safety Dogs to Detroit

Ilitch Charities and the Detroit Tigers Foundation recently partnered to donate three bomb-sensing dogs to local law enforcement agencies including the Michigan State Police, Wayne State University Public Safety Department and the Detroit Police Department.

Detroit Students Learn More About Construction at Career Days

Nearly 500 students from Detroit were invited to learn more about the construction industry at the annual Michigan Construction Career Days recently. Olympia Development of Michigan was a proud sponsor of the event at the Operating Engineers 324 Training and Education Center in Howell, Mich. on May 5 and 6.

Practice (Ice) Makes Perfect for Little Caesars Youth Hockey at New Arena

Organizers of the Little Caesars AAA Hockey Club and Amateur Hockey League recently had a chance to tour the underground practice ice facility inside Little Caesars Arena in The District Detroit.

‘Hockey – The Musical!’ Debuts at City Theatre

It’s a great time to catch a concert, a comedy show or a hilarious new musical at one of several amazing venues located in The District Detroit. And this week marks the opening of the exciting new show, “Hockey – The Musical!” written by noted author, radio host and playwright Mitch Albom.

History in the Making at Little Caesars Arena

Olympia Entertainment and the Detroit Red Wings invite fans to be part of Detroit history by donating or loaning items that are part of Detroit hockey, music and entertainment heritage, which will be displayed at Little Caesars Arena, the new home of the Red Wings.

The District Detroit Featured in Shopping Industry Blog

International Council of Shopping Centers, the largest global trade association of the shopping center industry, featured The District Detroit and Detroit’s comeback story in the Center of Shopping blog this week.

Detroit Tigers Come Home This Weekend

It’s been one month since the Detroit Tigers’ first home game and as they head into a home stand against the Texas Rangers this weekend we’re looking back at the Opening Day festivities in The District Detroit. Fans came out to watch the Tigers beat the New York Yankees and to take part in all the exciting activities around Comerica Park.

Announcing Little Caesars Arena

Olympia Entertainment and Little Caesars today announced a naming rights partnership establishing Little Caesars Arena as the name of Detroit’s new, 20,000+ seat downtown arena. The new Little Caesars Arena will serve as home of the Detroit Red Wings NHL franchise and countless other sports, entertainment and community events.

SPOTLIGHT: John Perkins, Apprentice

John Perkins insists that the work he’s doing on the Detroit Events Center is more than a job—it’s a way to thank his father for teaching him the value of hard work. Perkins, a 22-year-old Detroit resident, has helped build the nearly 40-foot tall foundation wall around the arena as a carpenter’s apprentice since the project began last year.

SPOTLIGHT: Rodney Hardy, Moving Closer to the Action

Rodney Hardy is a familiar face to many who frequent Da Edoardo’s Foxtown Grille before a game at Comerica Park or a show at the Fox Theatre. He’s worked in the restaurant for more than 13 years. He’s a waiter, a cook, a bartender, a deliveryman and he’s one of those guys that you can talk to for an hour on just about any subject.

See What’s Happening this Spring in The District Detroit

Spring is a great time to catch a concert, a comedy show or even an acrobatic circus at one of several amazing venues located in The District Detroit, like the Fox Theatre. Here are just a few of the upcoming events being held this spring.

SPOTLIGHT: Synnia Snead, Electrician

For Synnia Snead, the Detroit Events Center is one of the most exciting and important projects that she’s worked on in her nearly 20-year career as an electrician. Snead is one of 35 electricians working on The District Detroit arena project for Detroit-based Motor City Electric, which has been located in the city for more than 60 years.

Red Wings Underground Practice Ice Taking Shape

It may be getting warmer outside but we’re planning for ice inside the Detroit Events Center—specifically the new practice ice. Ironworkers began construction of the new Detroit Red Wings underground practice ice facility roof this week with the placement of structural steel in the southwest corner of the arena.

Guide Dog Apprentice Learns the Ropes on one of the Coolest Projects in the City

The Detroit Events Center construction site is a unique place full of trucks and cranes that are in constant motion—one new apprentice is learning the ropes and at the same time putting smiles on the faces of construction workers from all over the jobsite.

Detroit General Contractor Makes an Impact on Their Hometown

Donovan White is grateful for a chance to give back to his hometown. White, 36, is the deputy operations manager of Detroit-based White Construction—one third of Barton Malow-Hunt and White, the general contractor of the Detroit Events Center.

Nearly 500 Attend Detroit Career Outreach Fair

Olympia Development of Michigan was proud to participate in a career outreach fair last weekend, organized by Detroit City Council President Brenda Jones and held at the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees headquarters in Downtown Detroit. The event drew close to 500 Detroit residents.

Raise the Roof Fans: the First Roof Truss is Up

For fans of hockey, music and more—this week brought super news for those looking forward to the Detroit Events Center opening. The arena’s roof began to take shape with the first super truss going into place on the building’s Woodward-facing side.

Installation of Precast Concrete Seating Area Begins

Arena seats will be bolted down to it and fans will stand and cheer on it but only a few will ever notice the concrete under their feet at the new Detroit Events Center. This isn’t just any concrete though. Seats will be bolted down to rows of concrete manufactured by some of Metro Detroit’s finest skilled labor.

Incredible Progress Made on the New Home of the Detroit Red Wings

It’s been an amazing year of progress in The District Detroit. The new home of the Detroit Red Wings is continuing to come to life as steel and concrete rapidly grow out of the ground and the arena’s intimate and intimidating design takes shape on schedule for a September 2017 completion.

SPOTLIGHT: Alejandro Gutiérrez, Apprentice

Growing up in southwest Detroit, 20-year-old Alejandro Gutiérrez aspired to work in the construction field but had no idea that his path would lead him to such an exciting project. After completing a vocational-technical program offered at Western International High School where he attended school, Gutiérrez signed up to become a crane operator’s apprentice.

Comerica Bank Reaffirms Commitment to Michigan and Detroit as third Landmark Partner for New Red Wings Arena

Olympia Entertainment is proud to announce Comerica Bank as the third Landmark Partner at the new arena. In addition to several other partnership elements, Comerica will be the sole sponsor of the much anticipated Players Club, a 250-person premium area located on the event level between the Red Wings locker room and the ice.

Detroit-based Tooles Contracting Group Sets Concrete Foundation

Damon Tooles sees possibility in the Detroit Events Center—not just for his construction company but for the men and women working on the jobsite every day. He’s the CEO of Detroit-based Tooles Contracting Group, which is completing work on the arena’s concrete foundation and floor slabs.

SPOTLIGHT: Andre Hardy, Apprentice

After a few years of working in an office, Detroit resident Andre Hardy decided he wanted to change careers. So, he enrolled as an electrician’s apprentice. Now in his fifth year, Hardy is working with Motor City Electric, a Detroit-based electrical contractor with a 60-year history in the city, on the new home of the Detroit Red Wings where he works on power and lighting.

Arena Takes Shape as Roof Construction Nears

The view does not disappoint from the steel skeleton of the Detroit Events Center’s upper concourse. And soon the arena will begin to look much more like a home for Detroit Red Wings hockey.

New Retail, Office Space Developments Announced for Woodward Square Neighborhood

We’re announcing details for restaurant, shopping, and office space developments in The District Detroit’s Woodward Square neighborhood surrounding the new home of the Detroit Red Wings.

New Contracts Bring Total to Nearly $200 Million for Detroit Businesses

The District Detroit is already making a huge impact on the local economy. To date, nearly $200 million in contracts have been awarded to Detroit-based or –headquartered businesses.

SPOTLIGHT: Sean Hollister, Construction Manager

Sean Hollister started out big in Detroit. And he hasn’t slowed down in nearly 20 years leading high-profile construction projects in the city.

2016 Another Year of Progress in the District Detroit

Last year brought an impressive demonstration of progress in The District Detroit, with steel and concrete now rising above Woodward Avenue as the new Detroit Events Center begins to take shape.

Ilitches Named "Newsmakers of the Year" by Crain's Detroit Business

Mike and Christopher Ilitch have been named top “Newsmakers of the Year” by Crain’s Detroit Business. They are being recognized “for their work building The District Detroit, which will be anchored by the new Red Wings arena, and for funding the Mike Ilitch School of Business at Wayne State University,” according to the publication.

Detroit and Michigan Companies Awarded $52 Million in New Contracts

Rapid progress on our construction site is providing great opportunities to Detroit and Michigan companies. 65 percent of our contracts have been awarded to Detroit companies and an even larger amount, 95 percent, have been awarded to Michigan companies.

Meijer and Saint Joseph Mercy Health System Sign on as First Landmark Partners for New Detroit Events Center

As construction moves forward on the site of the new Detroit Events Center, Olympia Entertainment today announced that Meijer and Saint Joseph Mercy Health System are its first two official Landmark-level partners, the highest level of commitment.

Neighborhood Advisory Committee Members Tour Construction Site

Members of the Detroit City Council-appointed Neighborhood Advisory Committee were invited to the Detroit Events Center construction site last week for an exclusive on-site look at the progress being made there.

Health and Safety Day a Success at Detroit Events Center Construction Site

A series of special events emphasizing the importance of health and safety were held recently at the new Detroit Events Center construction site.

Olympia Entertainment Announces Fan and Community Enhancements to New Detroit Arena

As construction moves forward on the site of the new Detroit Events Center, Olympia Entertainment today announced plans for significant fan and community enhancements to the facility.

Detroit-based Company Places First Pieces of Steel Structure for New Detroit Arena as Rapid Progress Continues

The biggest development project in the region is taking another step forward as the first piece of structural steel was set in place. The 41-foot, 4-inch I-beam is part of a $50 million contract awarded to Detroit-based Midwest Steel for more than 9,500 tons of steel.

Mike and Marian Ilitch Gift $40M Plus Use of Land to Wayne State University

Wayne State University is receiving a $40 million gift from Mike and Marian Ilitch to build a new, state-of-the-art business school facility in Detroit. The gift, pending Board of Governors approval today, is the largest in the history of the university and ranks as one of the top ten gifts ever to a public business school in the United States.

In recognition of the Ilitches’ generosity, the school will be named the Mike Ilitch School of Business. The new building will be located on the southwest corner of Woodward Avenue and Temple Street, extending the footprint of Wayne State’s campus south into The District Detroit.

Michigan-born Red Wings visit new Detroit Events Center construction site.

Five Michigan-born Red Wings recently had the chance to visit the new Detroit Events Center construction site.

Renovated Fox Theatre Marquee Shines Brightly within The District Detroit

The Fox Theatre marquee is a beloved icon in the city of Detroit and an important symbol of the Ilitch companies' ongoing commitment to our hometown. The Ilitches purchased the theatre in 1987, restored it to its original grandeur, then relocated their company headquarters to the building in 1989.

Detroit Businesses Earn $13 Million in New Contracts for New Detroit Events Center

Detroit-based and -headquartered businesses will earn more than $13 million from three new contracts for the new Detroit Events Center. The contracts total more than $25 million.

Hundreds Attend Outreach Events for New Arena Contracts

Hundreds of representatives from Detroit-based and –headquartered companies attended an outreach event August 25, 2015 at Detroit’s MotorCity Casino Hotel. The event was designed to help Detroit companies get involved with the new Detroit Events Center development.

Contractor Outreach Event August 25 on Wide Range of Offerings

Information on dozens of new Detroit Events Center contracts will be available a contractor outreach event August 25, 2015 at MotorCity Casino Hotel. Contracts available are wide ranging and including floors, ceilings, appliances, metal work, landscaping, signage and wayfinding, and much more.

Visual and Experiential Elements will Engage Fans and the Community

A dramatic arena bowl will bring fans into the game. While the first of its kind Via atrium will bring traditional outdoor street experiences inside in a bold way.

Olympia Development and Woodside Bible Church Jointly Adopt Detroit’s Historic Cass Park

Olympia Development of Michigan and Woodside Bible Church have partnered to adopt Detroit’s historic Cass Park through the city’s standard Adopt-a-Park program. Woodside Detroit has adopted the park in previous years, and Olympia is increasing community investment in the area surrounding the new Detroit Events Center now under construction.

New District Preview Center Helps Drive Investment in Detroit

A state-of-the-art preview center will help tell the District Detroit story to a wide variety of potential sponsors and investors. The Preview Center features three dimensional-printed scaled animated models of The District Detroit and the new arena to provide a fully immersive experience of the transformative project.

Foundation Work Begins on New Detroit Arena

Building of the foundation piers of the new arena will begin this week as impressive progress is made on the site of the new Red Wings arena at Woodward and Sproat.

New Contract Awards Announced for New Detroit Events Center

At the recommendation of Olympia Development of Michigan, the Detroit Downtown Development Authority has approved new multi-million dollar contracts for future work on the new Detroit Events Center, future home of the Detroit Red Wings.

Building and Preserving Detroit History for More Than 50 Years

You can find Detroit’s history in the faces of its people, in their incredible production over a century as the heart of industrial America and in the structures we have created throughout our progress. History is our story – Detroiters’ stories – about where we have been and the next destination in our journey together as a great city.

Events Center Big Dig Hits Halfway Mark

In just six short weeks since mass excavation began on the new Detroit Events Center site, crews have removed more than 225,000 cubic yards of soil to make way for the centerpiece of The District Detroit’s Woodward Square neighborhood. The new arena will be home to the Detroit Red Wings, other sports and entertainment events, concerts, family shows and community functions. Crews working on site are nearly half of the way to removing an estimated 480,000 cubic yards of dirt for the Events Center bowl.

Cass Tech Student Interns Welcomed to the Ilitch Companies

The 24 student interns selected to participate in the Ilitch Companies/Cass Tech internship program were officially welcomed on field by Christopher Ilitch during the Detroit Tigers vs. Chicago Cubs pre-game ceremony on June 9. Cass Tech Principal Lisa Phillips threw out the ceremonial first pitch and Cass Tech student Karly Render gave a crowd cheering rendition of the National Anthem.

Detroit-Headquartered Business Wins $50 Million Contract

A $50 million contract comprising most of the structural steel work for the new Detroit Events Center has been awarded to Midwest Steel, a Detroit-headquartered business.

Ilitch Organization Achieves Zoning Approval for New Detroit Events Center

Detroit City Council members have approved a zoning application for the new Detroit Events Center, new residential, office and retail space, and a community greenspace and a piazza.

Our Vision for Affordable Housing and Plan for Renovation of Eddystone Hotel

Strategy will establish 20 percent affordable housing goal throughout The District Detroit and preserve Louis Kamper designed, 13-story Eddystone Hotel

Detroit Businesses Win Majority of Contract Awards for New Detroit Events Center

Detroit Businesses Participation Far Exceeds Targeted Goal; Reaffirms Ilitch Commitment to Michigan Made, Detroit Built Events Center and District

The District Detroit Outreach to Detroit and State-Wide Contractors in Full Swing

The District Detroit has a comprehensive business participation plan to ensure that Detroit businesses benefit from construction opportunities with the new Detroit Events Center.

The District Detroit: Six Job Fairs in 60 Days

The District Detroit is inviting Detroiters seeking construction and construction-related career opportunities to a series of six District Detroit job fairs being held over the next 60 days.

Little Caesars Pizza Doubles Down on Detroit.

To support its rapidly growing, global business, Little Caesars is building a brand-new 205,000-square-foot Global Resource Center, expanding its world headquarters campus in Detroit to more than twice its current size. It is Detroit’s first newly constructed corporate headquarters building in more than a decade and only the seventh since 1950.

Detroit Residents Participate in District Detroit Career Opportunity Expo.

3,500 Detroit residents attended the recent Career Opportunity Expo at Cobo Center to prepare for the construction and construction-related job opportunities that will come with the building of the new arena and surrounding Sports and Entertainment District that will connect Downtown to Midtown. Olympia Development of Michigan, in partnership with the Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation (DESC) and the City of Detroit Mayor’s Office, sponsored the Expo. 

Slow Roll bicyclists meet The District Detroit.

Hundreds of bicyclists gathered Oct. 6 to get to know The District Detroit, the 50-block Sports and Entertainment District surrounding a new Detroit Red Wings arena.

District Detroit Holds Jobs Expo for City Residents.

City, community and union partners will work alongside Olympia Development to help prepare residents for these opportunities at The District Detroit Resident Career Opportunity Expo from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 28 at Cobo Center.

The District Detroit will create a more walkable city.

Experts say projects like The District Detroit will separate the visionary cities of the 21st century from those stuck in the past.

A Monumental Day: The District Detroit begins.

Hundreds gathered near Woodward and Sibley to celebrate the groundbreaking for the new Detroit Red Wings arena and the larger development that will surround it.

District neighborhoods are key to making Detroit vibrant again.

The new state-of-the-art hockey arena at the center of The District Detroit is just one part of the sweeping, long-range vision surrounding the ice arena and community events center the Detroit Red Wings will soon call home. The new 50-block sports and entertainment district will connect downtown Detroit with Midtown to create one contiguous walkable, livable experience.

Thousands of jobs for Detroit residents as The District Detroit becomes reality.

Olympia Development of Michigan’s planned sports and entertainment district, The District Detroit, is a sweeping transformation of neighborhoods between Downtown and Midtown, that will create 8,300 construction and construction-related jobs and 1,100 permanent jobs.

New District will help transform Detroit’s economic future.

The District Detroit will connect the city to the suburbs and the city’s progressively vibrant arts center to its increasingly robust business center.

Ilitch Organization Shares Bold Vision for Building World-class, Mixed-use Sports And Entertainment District In Detroit

Olympia Development of Michigan announces plans for a sweeping transformation of dozens of underutilized blocks between downtown and midtown Detroit into a world-class Sports and Entertainment District.