• Proposed development plan submitted to Detroit Downtown Development Authority calls for an approximately 14-story, 290 room hotel with up to 30,000 square feet of street-level retail, food and beverage space at Woodward and the I-75 service drive, adjacent to Little Caesars Arena
  
• The development plan calls for 36 months of construction to begin in 2024, pending continued public private partnership and attainment of suitable financing
  
• Consistent with Olympia Development and Related Companies’ previously announced vision for The District Detroit, the estimated $190 million project would create jobs, grow the tax base and add to the vitality of the city
  
• This project will help meet the significant need for additional hotel space in the city

Building upon the steady development progress in The District Detroit, Olympia Development of Michigan and Related Companies have submitted a development plan to the Detroit Downtown Development Authority for the previously announced mid-rise, mixed-use hotel development at Woodward Ave. and the I-75 service drive, adjacent to Little Caesars Arena. The development plan proposes an approximately 14-story, 290 room hotel, as well as up to 30,000 square feet of street-level retail, food and beverage space. The plan calls for an estimated 36 months of construction to begin in 2024, pending continued public private partnership on the development and attainment of suitable financing.

This hotel development represents an estimated $190 million potential investment that will directly create hundreds of construction and permanent jobs, increase tax base and add to the vitality of The District Detroit.

“The hotel, food and beverage and other amenities proposed will create a wide variety of good jobs and attract people from the region, state and beyond to The District Detroit,” said Keith Bradford, President of Olympia Development of Michigan and The District Detroit.  “We’re excited about the immense opportunity this new development, along with the Detroit Center for Innovation and new housing under development such as The Residences@150 Bagley and the Henry Street project, represents for continuing our progress on this unique live, work and play destination.”

Related Companies is continuing its investments in the Detroit market to make a positive impact on the city and bring inspiring new development to Detroit.  

“A hotel on the doorstep of the second busiest arena in the nation will position Detroit to attract more of the world’s most watched entertainment events and invite visitors to extend their stay and experience more of this great City and growing neighborhood,” said Andrew Cantor, President of Related Michigan. “Related remains extremely optimistic about the future of The District Detroit and are working closely with our partners at Olympia Development and with the city to deliver to the kind of inclusive economic opportunities this community deserves.”

Claude Molinari, President and CEO of Detroit Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau echoed the need for more hotel rooms to help power the city’s continued resurgence.

“The city needs many more hotel rooms to better compete for significant events and conventions that will bring tens of thousands of additional visitors to the region and help create good jobs for Detroiters,” said Molinari. “With Olympia Development and Related Companies bringing this project to life, we can expect a first-class hotel with amenities and experiences that will attract travelers and businesses from around the globe.”

Prior to construction, the agreement allows for temporary activations such as community or other events on the site. Based on the volume of additional development underway and under study in The District Detroit by Olympia Development and Related, it is anticipated that proposed development plans for two additional ancillary development sites will be addressed with the DDA next September.

Olympia Development and Related continue to engage stakeholders from the community to gather feedback on a shared vision for The District Detroit. By seeking and incorporating input from the community, the companies will refine the vision to reflect and support local priorities that will influence how and when the development takes shape. Community conversations are exploring the core values and priorities of the purpose-driven development, including education, engagement, employment, economic inclusion and environmental justice.

Renderings shared earlier this year explore future areas of focus that will benefit the community while also meeting the strong, nationwide demand for developments that make a positive difference and address critical social issues. In addition to this hotel development, the announced vision anticipates commercial development on Columbia Street, a residential corridor along Park Avenue, and new parks and green spaces. The conceptual renderings also show preservation and adaptive reuse of existing historic buildings, new office space and amenities including restaurants, shopping, and more, showcasing what is possible in this vibrant, dynamic live, work and play development.

‍

Summer is winding down, but live entertainment in The District Detroit is still red hot. Joining the stellar entertainment options in the area, Detroit House of Comedy opened in June with national headliner Hans Kim,becoming the only full-time comedy club in the city. Located inside Hockeytown Cafe, Detroit House of Comedy features live stand-up comedy acts, podcasts and improvisation.

“The District Detroit is the epicenter of live entertainment in the city, and Detroit House of Comedy is an incredible addition that gives guests even more options for a fun night out,” said Sandy Richmond, General Manager, Fox Theatre.

John Tobin, co-founder of the Detroit House of Comedy and owner of over 10 other comedy venues across the country, is excited to bring a full-time comedy club to Detroit.

“Detroit is an entertainment town, and we’re excited to bring a variety of talent through the club so people can come back again and again but always experience something new,” said Tobin. “You could see a TikTok star on Tuesday, a local Detroit comedian on Wednesday, and a national touring comedian on Saturday. Whether its stand-up, improv show or even a live podcast, there is something for everyone here.”

This September, the laughs continue as Detroit House of Comedy welcomes more national headliners throughout the month, as well as comics and workshops as part of the Motor City Comedy Festival from Sept. 15-18.

For a full list of acts and to purchase tickets, visit https://Detroit.HouseofComedy.Net/ and follow the Detroit House of Comedy on Instagram @HouseofComedyDet.

‍

What could be better than watching a Detroit Tigers baseball game at Comerica Park? Experiencing a game with your furry best friend! The Tigers are excited to continue their popular annual Bark in Park series that allows fans to bring their dog to a game on Monday, Sept. 12 and Tuesday, Sept. 27. A portion of each ticket will be donated to Michigan Humane.

The Detroit Tigers are proud to have a long-standing relationship with Michigan Humane and continue to partner in support of local shelters through the Bark in the Park events. This year, PetSmart – who also works closely with Michigan Humane – is the sponsor of the event and provides giveaways and pet samples for guests in attendance.

Pet owners are required to purchase a ticket for themselves and their dog – one dog per person – and dogs must wear their identification at all times.  All Bark in the Park tickets must be purchased online and owners must sign a waiver. For ticket and waiver information, visit Tigers.com.

The Bark in the Park series kicked off on Aug. 31 with sold-out dog crowd. Check out some of the canine cuteness in this photo gallery!

‍

Two of the most iconic teams in Detroit Red Wings history – the 1997 group that won the club’s first Stanley Cup in 42 years and the 1998 team that went back-to-back – will be welcomed back to Detroit for the 25th Anniversary Celebration, Nov. 3 and Nov. 5, 2022. With tickets expected to be in high demand, fans are encouraged to visit DetroitRedWings.com/tickets to secure their seats today.

The 1997 team will be honored on Thursday, Nov. 3 when the Red Wings host the Washington Capitals. The 1998 Red Wings will be celebrated when Detroit entertains the New York Islanders on Saturday, Nov. 5. For additional information, fans can visit DetroitRedWings.com/Anniversary.

“The 1997 and 1998 teams will always be special to my teammates and me, because they are a reminder of the hard work and perseverance it required over many years to reach that championship level,” said Steve Yzerman, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Detroit Red Wings. “It’s going to be great to see so many familiar faces back in Detroit for this special weekend, and I know our fans will be excited to look back on those memories with us.”

Dozens of former players, coaches and front office executives from the 1997 and 1998 championship teams are scheduled to be in attendance at Little Caesars Arena for the pregame ceremonies. The Stanley Cup will be available for photo opportunities on the Via concourse. Commemorative items celebrating the accomplishments of both teams will also be available for fans to view and remember. Exclusive celebration and replica Stanley Cup championship merchandise will also be sold in the Team Store.

The full list of attendees and the fan programming schedule surrounding the 25th Anniversary Celebration weekend will be announced in the coming weeks.

“We’re looking forward to honoring two of the most memorable teams in Red Wings history for the 25th Anniversary Celebration in early November,” said Chris McGowan, President and CEO of Ilitch Sports + Entertainment. “We are expecting a great turnout of former players, coaches and staff members, and our fans will be able to pay tribute to a special group that brought two straight Stanley Cups to Hockeytown. We encourage fans to secure their tickets soon to join in the celebration.”

Single-game tickets for the Red Wings’ 2022-23 preseason and regular season are currently on-sale at DetroitRedWings.com/tickets.

‍

When disasters strike, first responders are specially trained to be the first to arrive on the scene, provide aid and protect the well-being of our communities. They run toward an event rather than away, facing unique risks and challenges to ensure the safety of others.

To express gratitude and show appreciation for first responders, the Detroit Tigers and BELFOR Property Restoration(BELFOR) will honor the countless frontline heroes of our region at Comerica Park on Tuesday, Sept. 13, in an exclusive pregame ceremony. The program is part of BELFOR’s ongoing commitment to recognizing and showing gratitude for first responders in the community. The Tigers take on the Houston Astros at 6:40 p.m.

Prior to the on-field ceremony, four first pitches will be thrown by local first responders, including Chelsea Fire Authority Chief Rob Arbini, Village of Holly Fire Department Chief Steve McGee, City of Ferndale Fire Department Chief Teresa Robinson and Farmington Director of Public Safety Ted Warthman. BELFOR CEO Sheldon Yellen will catch each of the first pitches.

“The world will always remember the tragic events of 9/11 but we will also remember the heroic bravery from our first responders that day,” said Sheldon Yellen, CEO of BELFOR Property Restoration. “And for that, we are humbled and honored to show support for the men and women who serve our communities each and every day but especially as we remember a day that changed our lives forever.”

“We are proud to team up with our friends at BELFOR in paying tribute to first responders and heroes on the frontlines,” said Chris McGowan, President and CEO of Ilitch Sports + Entertainment. “As we collectively remember the tragic events of 9/11 and the personnel that helped save so many lives, it will also be a tremendous opportunity to recognize the bravery and sacrifice of first responders right here in our community.”  

BELFOR Property Restoration is the world’s largest disaster recovery and property restoration company headquartered in Birmingham, Michigan. BELFOR is proud to offer 24/7/365 residential, commercial, and industrial customers the service needed to help return to normalcy following fire, water, wind, and other natural disasters. Visit belfor.com for more information.

‍

As part of the club’s continued commitment to provide exciting opportunities to young fans, the Detroit Tigers Foundation has launched a new initiative for the 2022 season– “Game Day For Kids” presented by Little Caesars. The initiative aims to deliver thousands of all-inclusive game day experiences to kids from the city of Detroit and Wayne County.

The pilot program, which launched in July, will provide 4,000 memorable trips to Comerica Park for Detroit area youth and their attending chaperones over the course of the season. Guests receive roundtrip transportation, tickets, food and beverage, Tigers merchandise and more. This is all made possible with generous support from several team partners including the presenting sponsor, Little Caesars as well as Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, DTE Energy, Meijer and Delaware North.

Game Day For Kids adds another layer to the Tigers’ annual distribution of 50,000 complimentary tickets to children and chaperones from the city of Detroit and Wayne County. Initiatives like Game Day For Kids provide an opportunity for the Tigers to nurture ongoing partnerships with local organizations and residents, focusing on giving back and helping the youth of the community.

“These efforts serve as great building blocks toward continuing to make all aspects of baseball accessible for kids across our community,” said Kevin Brown, Director of Community Impact for Ilitch Sports + Entertainment. “We know thousands of amazing memories will come from spending a day at the ballpark as guests of the Detroit Tigers Foundation’s Game Day For Kids initiative.”

‍

The Detroit Tigers have partnered with The District Detroit-based restaurant, Union Assembly, to bring two items to their menu from August 21 through late September.

Eric Haase, who is a Detroit native and Tigers catcher, was tasked with creating two menu items with proceeds going to a charity of his choosing. “I was so excited when the Tigers invited me to partner with Union Assembly on this,” said Haase. “I met with the chef and bartender who came up with three different sandwich and drink ideas. The best part of this whole thing has been going over and trying all of them, and I couldn’t be happier where we landed.”

The burger – the Baseline Brisket Burger – has a 4 oz beef patty, featuring Smoked Woodshop brisket, touched with wild mushroom gravy, Grana Padano, with a Garlic Herb Ricotta served on a pretzel bun. Mr. Gatorade, the cocktail, is in reference to the Detroit native’s accomplishment winning the Gatorade Michigan Player of the Year during his senior year at Dearborn’s Divine Child High School. The drink includes the six-month aged spirit, Espolon Reposado Tequila, St. Germaine, Freshly, daily squeezed lime juice, Demerara syrup, Angostura Bitters, and soda.

“Everyone loves good food, so I’m really excited for fans to try them out and help benefit a great cause at the same time,” said Haase.

Located on Columbia St., directly across from Comerica Park, is Union Assembly – a new addition to the Michigan-based restaurant chain, Union Joints. The restaurant features a second-floor lounge, indoor and outdoor bar, and a terrace directly above Woodward Ave.

The proceeds for both menu items will be donated to Detroit Tigers Foundation and CATCH. CATCH is a nonprofit dedicated to raising money for pediatric patients and their families at both the Children’s Hospital of Michigan and Henry Ford Hospital here in Detroit.

‍

In conjunction with Major League Baseball, the Detroit Tigers announced the club’s Grapefruit League game schedule for 2023 Spring Training in Lakeland, Florida. Spring of 2023 will mark Detroit’s 87^th season at TigerTown in Lakeland, extending the longest-standing relationship between a Major League team and a current Spring Training host city. The 2023 spring season will be the club’s 58^th consecutive season of playing at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium.

Detroit begins its Grapefruit League schedule with a pair of home games, hosting the Philadelphia Phillies on Saturday, February 25 and the Baltimore Orioles on Sunday, February 26.

The home schedule features visits from the New York Yankees (March 10 and March 17), Boston Red Sox (March 14), Toronto Blue Jays (March 4 and March 20) and St. Louis Cardinals (March 7). In addition to the Yankees and Blue Jays, the Philadelphia Phillies (February 25 and March 16), Baltimore Orioles (February 26 and March 2) and Pittsburgh Pirates (March 1 and March 24) will all make two visits to Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium.

The Tigers are now accepting deposits towards the purchase of new season tickets for the upcoming 2023 Spring Training season in sunny Lakeland, FL. Secure your spot with a $100 per seat deposit by calling (863) 686-8075.

Fans interested in securing their seat at Comerica Park for the 2023 season can do so by placing their season membership deposit today. Season Ticket Members receive guaranteed access to Detroit’s Opening Day presented by Rocket Mortgage on Thursday, April 6 vs. Boston, discounts on concessions and merchandise, and exclusive member events with alumni and current players. Place your season membership deposit for the 2023 season today at tigers.com/membership or call 313-471-2255.

Game times for 2023 Spring Training are subject to change. The Bally Sports Detroit and 97.1 The Ticket/Audacy broadcast schedules will be announced at a later date.

‍

Chris McGowan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ilitch Sports + Entertainment (IS+E), announced today that Ron Colangelo has been named Senior Vice President of Communications and Broadcasting. Colangelo will lead all business and team communications functions across Ilitch Sports + Entertainment companies and properties, in addition to managing all local, national and league rightsholder relationships.

Colangelo, who previously held the title of Vice President of Communications with the Detroit Tigers, begins his new post immediately and reports directly to McGowan.

“Ron is one of the most respected communication executives in not just Detroit, but across all of professional sports, and we’re fortunate to have him taking on this expanded role,” said McGowan. “Connecting with our fans is at the center of everything we do, and Ron’s experience leading forward-thinking strategies to do just that are one of the many reasons we knew he was perfect for this position across our sports and entertainment properties.”

Colangelo’s experience in sports spans over three decades and includes roles in three of the professional sports leagues. Prior to joining the Tigers in 2008 he was most recently the Vice President, Communications for the New York Jets (2002-07); Vice President, Communications and Community Affairs for the Florida Marlins (1996-2002); and Assistant Director, Public/Media Relations for the Florida Panthers (1993-96).

“This is such an exciting time to be a sports fan in Detroit, and it’s an honor and a privilege to take on this responsibility,” said Colangelo. The Olde English ‘D’ and Winged Wheel are two of the most iconic brands in all of sports, and I’m proud to play a role in engaging the millions of passionate Tigers and Red Wings fans across the globe.”

Since joining the Tigers, Colangelo has led a team of communications professionals that collaborates with the media and broadcast rights holders daily, while acting as a liaison between the club’s social media team and uniform personnel. Overseeing the club’s day-to-day media and public relations, Colangelo continues to drive business impact for the club’s marketing, digital, community and sales initiatives, while also focusing on building brand equity beyond traditional media outlets.

Colangelo was born in New Jersey and holds a communications degree from William Paterson University and attended Arizona State University. He enjoys traveling with his family, with particular interest in exploring cultures throughout Europe and South America. Ron and his wife, Sandra, along with their three children, and two rescue dogs reside in Metro Detroit.

‍