“Hudson’s puts us on the map.” Those are the words of Matt Menchaca a crane operator who worked on the Hudson’s Site. He knew its importance. This isn’t just another building. Hudson’s Site is a symbol of Detroit’s resurgence.
Here we are at 1208 Woodward Avenue. This location is more than just an address. It’s a place where history is being made. The Hudson’s Site is a mixed-use development. It stands on the former site of the J.L. Hudson’s Flagship Store.
Now, let me tell you a bit about what once stood here. The original Hudson’s store was a giant. It was built in phases between 1911 and 1946. For a time, it was the tallest department store in the world. Later, it was the second largest by area, only behind Macy’s in New York. Imagine that scale. Sadly, after 12 years of closure, the original Hudson’s was imploded in 1998. It was the tallest building ever demolished this way.
Fast forward to today. What rises here now is equally impressive. Construction on the new Hudson’s Site began in 2017. There was a brief pause during the COVID-19 pandemic. But work quickly resumed. The tower topped out on April 10, 2024. The final name, Hudson’s Detroit, was announced two days later.
The Hudson’s Site development includes two buildings. There is a 14-story mid-rise and a towering skyscraper. They will be linked by an underground parking garage. The skyscraper is set to be the second tallest in Detroit and Michigan. It reaches a height of 685 feet. That is just over 208 meters.
The Hudson’s Site will offer a mix of everything. There will be retail spaces, offices and residences. A five-star hotel is planned. There will even be event venues with stunning city views. The building boasts floor-to-ceiling windows and a central atrium. This allows for an abundance of natural light.
The Hudson’s Site project also provided opportunities for local tradespeople. Hope Hinderer, an ironworker, worked on some of the biggest welds of her career here. Ralston Shruggs, a Detroit native, remembers shopping at the original Hudson’s with his family. He says it was great to work on this project and change the Detroit skyline.
General Motors will move its global headquarters here in 2025. They will lease space in the mid-rise building. The top floor is expected to house a restaurant.
The Hudson’s Site is more than just steel and glass. It represents the talent and dedication of Detroit’s people. Over 3,500 tradespeople have contributed to this project. They have put in millions of hours of labor.
As you look at the Hudson’s Site rising, you can’t help but feel a sense of excitement. It will introduce over 1.5 million square feet of new space for everyone. Hudson’s Detroit is not just rebuilding a landmark. It’s creating a global destination for the city’s future.