Idea involving Magic Johnson to redevelop former Michigan State Fairgrounds site moves ahead

Plan would redevelop site for movie theater, park, housing, restaurants

Published On: Feb 08 2013 08:45:19 AM EST
DETROIT -

An idea to redevelop the former Michigan State Fairgrounds site in Detroit by a group that includes Hall-of-Fame basketball player turned businessman Earvin "Magic" Johnson is moving forward.

The Michigan Land Bank Fast Track Authority agreed Thursday to begin negotiations with Magic Plus LLC.

The plan submitted last year would redevelop the site for a movie theater, park, housing and restaurants.

Michigan State Fair Grounds 2

There's no timeline being released for reaching a development agreement. The Michigan State Fair closed in 2009 because of a lack of funding.

Johnson's partners are Detroit entrepreneur Marvin Beatty and Lansing businessman Joel Ferguson. Ferguson also is on the Michigan State University Board of Trustees.

Johnson led Michigan State to the 1979 college basketball national championship.

Michigan State Fair Grounds 3

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