DETROIT – This is not some fortress-like high-rise. It's 278 units spread across four city blocks, creating essentially a new riverfront neighborhood.
Initially, rent rates at Orleans Landing are ranging from $700 $1,200 a month.
"I see young professionals, empty nesters, etc.," said developer Richard Baron.
Twenty percent of the units are set aside for Detroiters who qualify for subsidies.
"We must make sure we include longtime Detroiters in Detroit's comeback," said Mayor Mike Duggan.
The $65 million project is nestled between the Milliken State Park, the Renaissance Center and the Dequindre Cut. It's a 15-minute bike ride from the Detroit Medical Center.
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Ann Hudson walks it daily. She and her friend Deborah own homes in Detroit, but are now considering the riverfront.
"In a heartbeat," said Hudson.
Baron was born and raised in Detroit. He worked at his grandfather's store just blocks from this site and has developed $3 billion in property elsewhere. Orleans Landing marks his return home. This will not be an isolated, gated community.
"I don't do gated communities. We want to be inclusive neighborhoods like where I grew up at 7 Mile and Livernois," he said.
This is just the beginning. Phase two of this project will bring another 230 units by 2020. The mayor hinted at another major announcement coming in the next week.